5 Home Upgrades You Should Avoid, According to Designers—They Aren't Worth the Cost

Home upgrades are meant to bring you joy and added functionality, but these changes aren't always a guaranteed increase in value when it comes to selling. The truth is, there are a few upgrades that might seem like a good idea at first, but end up costing you time and money.

We spoke to two interior designers who revealed where you can save money and even included a few upgrades that are totally worth the investment.

Luxurious bathroom fittings

It's tempting to transform your bathroom into a spa-like space, whether with a new waterfall showerhead or a fancy soaking tub. But designer Colleen Bennett recommends skipping these fixtures and saving money on other upgrades.

There are other, cheaper ways to upgrade your bathroom, like adding a few well-placed candles or replacing the shower head, without having to pull out the tiles and call in a professional.

Although a chic freestanding bathtub or underfloor heating could “add a luxurious touch,” says Bennett, “they can be costly to install and maintain without significantly increasing the value of the home.”

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Expensive smart home systems

A smart system may sound like a no-brainer, but interior designer Carolyn Cerminara disagrees. Technology is advancing too quickly for a huge investment to pay off in many cases.

This may sound shocking to some homeowners, but Cerminara points out that this isn't the right move for every home – it's better to balance practicality with your budget. She also points out that future homeowners may find the system you choose too complex and confusing.

What to do instead? Go for the essentials. She says thermostats, lighting and security systems are “simple, affordable and provide immediate benefits like energy efficiency without overwhelming people with too much technology.”

Swimming pools and water features

Both Bennett and Cerminara said adding water features and pools can result in costly maintenance costs, an over-the-top finish that doesn't match the rest of your home, and a lot of work.

Cerminara recommends putting a portion of your budget into landscaping and your existing outdoor spaces. She says these upgrades are “more versatile, add real value and create a beautiful, relaxing outdoor space without unnecessary extravagance.”

Bennett also points out that there are few regions where you can actually use a swimming pool for more than a few months of the year.

“They rarely provide a high return on investment,” she says.

Super-individual integrated functions

This may not be something most people think about, but if you have a specific passion or hobby and are thinking about a built-in system, cabinet or desk that matches it, make sure this isn't the case to individually adapted.

Bennett says that while they “can look beautiful, overly specific designs (like a built-in desk for a particular hobby) may not appeal to future buyers and can be expensive to remove or remodel.” They limit flexibility and can be viewed as too niche a product.

That doesn't mean you can't dedicate a room or area of ​​your home to your favorite pieces, but if you eventually want to sell, consider permanent renovations.

Luxury kitchen appliances

Kitchens are a point of discussion when it comes to upgrades, but Bennett and Cerminara both pointed out that it's simply a matter of choice Right Changes.

“People often assume that luxury kitchen appliances attract buyers, but in reality most buyers value layout and cabinetry over premium brands,” says Bennett. “Even expensive devices can quickly become outdated.”

If you have ideas of high-end ovens and fancy branded refrigerators floating around in your head, set aside that portion of money to make sure other appliances are in like-new condition before you sell them.

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth Your Money

With a good picture of the upgrades that designers consider non-essential, it's a good idea to know which renovations are worth making. This is what these interior design experts recommended:

• Selected Kitchen Upgrades: “Simple changes like adding sleek, modern cabinets or energy-efficient appliances can completely change the feel and function of the kitchen,” says Cerminara. So forget the bougie fridge and opt for new cabinets or countertops.
• Attractiveness Containment Improvements: Bennett recommends refreshing your front door, adding new outdoor lighting and getting your front and back yards in top shape. “It can make a great first impression on the buyer,” she says.
• Energy Efficient Adjustments: While these may not be the most aesthetically pleasing investments, they are still smart financial investments. Bennett recommends considering new “insulation, energy-efficient windows and smart thermostats” as they not only lower your bills but also “appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and provide a solid return on investment.”
• Specific Bathroom Upgrades: There is no need for a freestanding bathtub or a major reconfiguration of the plumbing. According to Cerminara, it's all about impactful details that give you the best value for money, such as new lighting or modern tiles.
• Lighting and color: Upgrades don't have to cost a fortune to be beneficial, as lighting and paint upgrades prove. Bennett points out that while these won't break the bank, they will “give a home a modern and attractive feel” and “instantly improve the look and feel of a room.”