Homeowners eyeing a renovation often assume that splurging on high-end fixtures will pay off at resale. But two interior designers caution that several popular upgrades are money pits, delivering little return when it's time to sell. Colleen Bennett, principal designer at CBB Design Firm, and Carolyn Cerminara, founder of Cerminara Design, shared their insights on which upgrades to skip and what to invest in instead.
The designers agree that luxury bathroom fixtures, such as freestanding tubs and heated floors, are tempting but rarely justify their cost. Bennett notes that these additions can be expensive to install and maintain without significantly boosting home value. Instead, she suggests affordable touches like candles or a simple shower head swap that don't require tearing up tile or hiring specialists.
Why High-Tech and Water Features Fall Short
Cerminara warns against expensive smart home systems, pointing out that technology evolves quickly and may overwhelm future buyers. She recommends sticking to essentials like smart thermostats, lighting, and security systems, which are budget-friendly and offer immediate benefits such as energy efficiency.
Swimming pools and water features also get a thumbs-down from both designers. Bennett emphasizes that they rarely provide a strong return on investment, especially in regions where the swimming season is short. Cerminara suggests directing that budget toward landscaping, which she says is more versatile and adds real value to outdoor spaces.
Custom Built-Ins and Luxury Appliances: A Niche Trap
Overly customized built-ins, like desks designed for specific hobbies, may look beautiful but can be costly to remove and may not appeal to a broad range of buyers. Bennett advises homeowners to be mindful of permanent renovations if selling is on the horizon.
Similarly, luxury kitchen appliances are not the selling point many assume. Bennett explains that most buyers prioritize layout and cabinetry over premium brands, and expensive appliances can quickly become outdated. She recommends reserving funds for ensuring other fixtures are in mint condition before listing.
Smart Investments That Pay Off
The designers also highlighted upgrades that are worth the money. Cerminara suggests modern cabinetry and energy-efficient appliances to transform a kitchen's feel and function. Bennett points to curb appeal enhancements like a refreshed front door, new exterior lighting, and well-maintained yards, which make a strong first impression.
Energy-efficient adjustments, such as insulation, windows, and smart thermostats, not only reduce bills but also appeal to eco-conscious buyers. In bathrooms, Cerminara recommends impactful touches like new lighting or modern tile instead of major plumbing changes. Finally, Bennett notes that simple lighting and paint updates can make a home feel updated and appealing without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the designers' advice centers on balancing practicality with budget, focusing on upgrades that improve function, energy efficiency, and curb appeal—rather than chasing trends that may not resonate with future buyers.
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