As a homeowner, if you have any intention to move out of your current house and sell it in the future, there are some things that you could change that will increase the property’s value and find you a willing buyer quickly. However, there are some additions that may not be worth the time or money.
So, before you call a contractor or start building on your own, here are the home improvement projects that you should think twice about doing.
Unnecessary Replacements
You would think that a potential buyer would notice and appreciate your new roof, but you are wrong. Unless it is absolutely needed, replacements, especially in an old home, will only be a waste of money. Moreover, it could remove the natural character and charm of the property.
A window replacement would be warranted if it was damaged or in an effort to make the home energy efficient. There are units that block excess heat from coming into a room and raising the indoor temperature. This home improvement project could save you, and any future homeowner, money by reducing the cost of heating.
A new roof would not raise your home’s value, either. Replacing it, even if there is a leak or it is well past the average life expectancy, is considered part of maintenance that will only assure your prospects that they would not need to make costly repairs so soon after they move in.
Skip the replacements for now and focus on home improvement projects that will be of value when you finally decide to sell.
Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
A carpeted room looks good — at first. After a while, it will start to show signs of wear no matter how often you vacuum it or scrub the stains out of it. In short, it would make the home look shabby and may discourage a buyer from making the purchase.
Old carpet is especially unappealing to first-time homeowners. They are used to having landlords who replace apartment carpeting in between tenants.
Even if the carpet is sparkling clean or new, the buyer might want wood or tile flooring instead. You will be paying a lot to install the carpet only for the new owner to rip it out immediately after moving in.
Swimming Pool/Hot Tub
Is having a swimming pool or a hot tub worth the investment? It is if you know you and your family or friends will enjoy it for years to come. However, do not expect buyers to offer you more money for it.
It does not matter if you spent tens of thousands of dollars on your pool or hot tub. Some people just do not want to have to be responsible for the complicated and costly maintenance that comes with having a pool or a hot tub.
This addition may also turn away families that have very young children as it poses a safety hazard.
Extravagant Landscaping
A properly cared for backyard will give the buyer the impression that the property was well maintained. Investing in landscaping will increase the value of your home for up to several thousands of dollars.
Too much, however, might make buyers run in the opposite direction. Any upscale enhancements will deter buyers because maintenance would be a lot of work and would be very pricey. Do not expect the future homeowner to be willing to shell out the same amount of money that you spend in order to make the property look good.
Making these additions, if you really wanted them and if they would enhance your enjoyment of your home, are not bad. However, if you plan to sell and want to improve the property to increase its value, then you are better off spending your money on something more worth your while.
