Home Renovations That Could Make Your Home Harder to Sell

When considering home renovations, it's crucial to understand that not all improvements will add value to your property. Some changes might actually make it more difficult to sell your home in the near future. Here's a comprehensive guide to making smart renovation choices.

How to Maximize Value Through Renovations

Professional stylists recommend keeping things neutral to attract more buyers. Here are the key strategies for value-adding renovations:

###  Add Practical Function

Combine aesthetic improvements with practical functionality. For example:

- Create a study nook in unused spaces like areas under stairwells

- Focus on improvements that serve a clear purpose while enhancing appearance

###  Enhance Street Appeal

First impressions are crucial when selling a home:

- Maintain or repaint the facade

- Keep the garden well-maintained and tidy

- Ensure the property looks well-kept from the street

###  Consult Professionals

Before starting any renovation:

- Speak with local real estate agents

- Consult property stylists familiar with your area

- Avoid overcapitalizing by understanding which renovations offer the best return on investment in your suburb

Styles to Avoid

### Colors and Patterns to Avoid

- Primary colors (especially red or yellow) in kitchens

- Overly trendy interior designs (such as boho style)

- Too many architectural arches

- Feature walls

- Heavy patterns in wallpaper or curtains

### Recommended Color Schemes

Stick to neutral colors that appeal to a broader audience:

- Warm neutrals: beige, white, and cream

- Cool tones: grey and charcoal

- Black accents for contrast

Understanding Buyer Preferences

### Common Renovation Mistakes

- Converting garages to bedrooms in areas where parking is valued

- Building large pergolas that eliminate backyard space in family-oriented neighborhoods

- Making changes that don't align with local buyer expectations

Renovations That Can Decrease Value

### Quality Considerations

- Low-quality renovations or extensions on premium properties

- Inconsistent building materials in areas known for specific construction standards

- Swimming pools in locations where they're not valued or appropriate

### Layout and Functionality

- Poorly planned room partitioning that creates cramped spaces

- Modifications that reduce natural light

- Changes that don't match the area's typical layout preferences

Best Practices for Renovation Planning

To ensure your renovations add value:

- Research local market preferences thoroughly

- Consult with real estate agents about popular kitchen and bathroom designs

- Consider your target market's specific needs and preferences

- Ensure all changes align with the area's character and buyer expectations

Remember that successful renovations should enhance both the property's functionality and its appeal to potential buyers in your specific market.

This information has been prepared by PHA Financial Services and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information you should consider whether it is appropriate to your situation. We recommend you obtain financial, legal and taxation advice before making any financial investment decision. The information provided was accurate at the time of publication and changes in circumstances after a document is published may impact on the accuracy of information. Some information may have been collated from various third parties and we make no assertion that the information was originally ours.