When preparing to remodel your home, it’s important to consider how the changes you make now might impact your home's value in the future. Remodeling for your own enjoyment is valid, but if you're planning to sell down the line, strategic upgrades can make all the difference.

Let's take a look at 10 home remodel projects that don't offer the return on investment you wish they did—and some great things you can do instead.

1. Luxury Kitchen Upgrades

High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and gourmet features may make a kitchen look stunning, but they don’t always translate into a higher selling price. Potential buyers may not value these costly upgrades enough to justify their price tag, and personal taste can vary widely.

Instead: Revamp the kitchen by repainting cabinets in modern, neutral tones, updating lighting fixtures, and replacing outdated faucets. These budget-friendly updates can provide a fresh, inviting look without the hefty price.

2. Over-the-Top Bathroom Additions

Luxury bathroom upgrades such as whirlpool tubs and custom vanities often fail to recoup their full cost. A mid-range bathroom remodel costing around $25,000 typically provides a 73% return on investment, while an upscale remodel with lavish features may cost $79,000 but only recoup about 45%.

Instead: Focus on practical improvements like updating fixtures, re-grouting tiles, or replacing old mirrors and lighting. These updates provide a refreshed look at a fraction of the cost.

3. Home Office Remodels

A home office might be desirable now, but future buyers may prioritize flexibility. Extensive built-in shelving and custom furniture can limit how the space is used later.

Instead: Maintain the room’s versatility. Use neutral decor and minimal furnishings so buyers can envision it as an office, bedroom, or anything else they might need.

4. Excessive Landscaping

Elaborate gardens, water features, and intricate landscaping designs can be overwhelming and expensive to maintain, potentially turning off buyers who prefer low-maintenance yards. Overly personalized outdoor spaces may also limit the buyer pool.

Instead: Stick to simple, well-maintained landscaping that enhances curb appeal without being high-maintenance. Trim bushes, add fresh mulch, and plant easy-care greenery to create an inviting yet manageable outdoor space.

5. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

Carpet may offer warmth and comfort, but it's not a top choice for modern buyers who prefer hardwood, laminate, or luxury vinyl flooring. Carpet can be seen as high-maintenance and prone to allergens, making it less desirable for many.

Instead: Consider replacing outdated carpet with durable, low-maintenance flooring options like laminate or luxury vinyl. If replacement isn't possible, deep-clean carpets and incorporate stylish area rugs for an updated look.

6. Pool Installations

While pools may seem like a luxury feature, they often don't provide a strong return. An in-ground pool installation can cost anywhere from $21,947-$84,836. Despite their appeal, pools require maintenance and can be seen as a liability by buyers.

Instead: Improve outdoor spaces with features such as a deck, fire pit, or patio area. These additions are more cost-effective and appeal to a broader range of buyers.

7. Invisible Improvements

Upgrades like new plumbing, HVAC systems, or electrical rewiring are essential for home functionality, but they rarely increase value beyond what buyers expect. These improvements can cost thousands of dollars but won't offer a high return unless the systems were previously failing.

Instead: Address only necessary repairs rather than upgrading systems that are already functioning well. Highlight energy efficiency and routine maintenance in the home listing to reassure buyers without unnecessary expenses.

8. Bold Paint or Decor Choices

Unique wall colors or dramatic decor styles can make a home stand out—for the wrong reasons. Bright or unusual paint choices may be seen as a project buyers need to tackle immediately, which can be a turn-off.

Instead: Repaint walls in neutral colors such as soft gray, beige, or white. Neutral tones provide a blank slate, making it easier for buyers to visualize their style in the space.

9. Room Conversions

Transforming a garage into a living space or converting a bedroom into a walk-in closet might align with personal needs, but it can reduce the home's overall appeal. Homes with garages often sell for a slight premium, as they provide storage and parking solutions that many buyers prioritize, especially in urban areas where space is limited.

Instead: Enhance the garage’s usability with organizational systems and a fresh coat of paint. If extra space is needed, consider an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), which can add value and appeal to buyers looking for rental income or private living quarters.

10. Home Gyms or Hobby Rooms

Specialized spaces like gyms or craft rooms can be great for personal use but may limit your home’s broader appeal. Buyers value flexibility in how spaces can be used.

Instead: Stage these rooms as neutral, multi-purpose spaces, such as a guest room with simple decor. This allows potential buyers to see the space's full potential without feeling restricted.

Remodeling for the Future

When remodeling your home, it’s always a good idea to focus on improvements that provide broad appeal and the highest return on investment when the time comes to sell. Costly, highly personalized upgrades may not resonate with buyers, while simple changes—such as repainting, enhancing curb appeal, and upgrading lighting—can make a significant impact without overspending.

That said, it's your home! If you want a gold-plated toilet, buy it! Just know you may need to swap it out when it comes time to sell.

Thinking about remodeling? Connect now to learn which upgrades will maximize your home's value and attract the right buyers. Expert guidance can help prioritize smart investments for the best possible outcome.