Some home improvements may not pay off. Depending on the objectives of the homeowner and the type of market, there may be reasons, outside of a budget, to be choosy when deciding on a future home improvement project. Homeowners are not on some reality television show and often realize to their detriment that projects put them over their original budget or are simply unnecessary to meeting their immediate needs.
Does a homeowner need to go all in when making home improvements? Some less-than-reputable contractors may try to make it seem that way. Here’s how to assess the situation if you ever feel like you’re being sold more than you need.
Dig Deep Without a Return
There are many home improvement projects that one can take on but that does not mean that each one offers a significant ROI when it comes time to sell a home. Homeowners who are looking to sell in the near future may want to learn more about their local market and general buyer expectations before plunking down a large sum of money.
Luxury embellishments and upgrades may not be necessary if this is not a general expectation in one’s community. Looking at recent comps can help homeowners get a better idea of what buyers are willing to pay more for in a home. It is important to select projects that can help a home stand out but stay within the average pricing seen in the neighborhood. Average home prices in a community will help dictate which home improvements may be worth the investment.
Speak to a local agent to learn more about the local market. Areas with an unusually higher than average number of homes for sell may indicate a buyers market as there is a surplus of properties on the market. It may not be time to expect much in return for haphazardly chosen home improvements. Those in a sellers market may have to make fewer home improvements. The type of market may want to be considered when looking to make upgrades to potentially boost home value and attract a certain type of buyer.
Assess Ability and Budget
Some homeowners have acquired enough skills to tackle basic home improvement projects. Whether it is freshening up dated cabinets or painting walls and entry doors, there are many inexpensive upgrades that can be done on a budget. However, homeowners need to get an idea of how much money and effort they are willing to spend on home improvement projects when they decide to DIY. Getting over one’s head can make for a stressful emotional and financial situation.
Some projects require a contractor and may need special permits and licensing. In such cases, it is beneficial to work with a licensed and reputable contractor. However, do not be afraid to speak up and not go for the most expensive materials or finishes if they are superfluous to addressing one’s immediate needs and will not make a difference in potential return or function of an upgrade or repair.
Go Too Far?
Homeowners should not expect an exact dollar for dollar return on any home improvement. Being overzealous may do more harm than good. Over improving on a home can be fine for those who do not care about their return or have no intention of moving for years to come. Unnecessary home improvements may not significantly boost value in a modest home. Skip the million-dollar kitchen for a luxury home in an average home.
Listing a home at the highest price in the area can put a seller at a disadvantage and dissuade potential buyers. Over improvements can include outsized additions, changing a bedroom into a walk-in closet, and personalizations such as in-ground pools. These may be attractive to a homeowner but actually be viewed as a negative by certain home buyers. Those looking to sell a home in the next five years and reside in modest neighborhoods should keep to neutral home improvements that will appeal to the majority of potential home buyers.
Selective Home Improvement
All home improvements are not the same. Many contractors are looking to make money—this is a business they are a part of after all–and may be under pressure to upsell on upgrades that may not be in the best interest of the average homeowner. Therefore, it makes sense for a homeowner to get a grasp of their budget for any home renovations and know what they need and what they can live without before speaking to a contractor.