10 Remodeling Shortcuts That Will Wreck Your Home’s Value
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Home remodeling elevates an interior space and gives it a more aesthetic appeal, thus providing a pleasant refuge from the world’s chaos. Rushing to cut corners to save a few bucks may be tempting, but it only seems to cause bigger problems down the road.
When it comes to home remodeling, it’s safer to avoid costly mistakes, and we’ve brought together some of the most common shortcuts that would do more harm to your home and could wreck the home when remodeling it.
Using Cheap Materials
While using cheap materials seems like a way to save money on materials, the fact that those materials tend to wear down fast often necessitates frequent repairs. Too cheap flooring, cabinets, or countertops can spoil the appearance of the space and cause buyers to leave without purchase. It’s more expensive in the long run to replace these items than to buy quality from the beginning.
Overlooking Insulation
Most homeowners do not consider proper insulation and just focus on superficial changes. Poor insulation can result in higher utility bills and make your home less desirable. Quality insulation is a selling point that delivers immediate benefits such as comfort and cost savings. Don’t cut corners on this unseen but valuable upgrade.
Skipping Foundation Repairs
For example, if your home has foundation issues, they are a red flag for buyers and will drastically lower its value. Ignoring small cracks or signs might not seem like a big deal, but it can cause serious structural damage. Repairing foundational repairs upfront protects investment and assures potential buyers that the home is sound.
DIY Electrical Work
Electrical work needs a professional touch; even the smallest mistake can be dangerous. DIY electrical fixes can be cheaper upfront but come with the risk of danger, such as fire or electrocution. This is one shortcut that can scare off buyers and cause your home insurance rates to skyrocket.
Ignoring Bathroom Ventilation
Bathrooms lack ventilation, which means they are prone to mold that can ruin walls and fixtures. A quality exhaust fan will prevent moisture buildup and help prolong the life of your bathroom surfaces. Poor ventilation can also cause bad odors and bad air quality in a bathroom, and buyers will notice.
Choosing Trendy Over Timeless
Design fads may look new and exciting now, but they’ll become dated quickly. Future buyers might not like bold patterns or bright colors that may sound stylish. Classics and neutrals are the way to go. That way, your home will always stay timeless and versatile, maintaining value over time.
Skipping Permits
Remodeling often require permits, which’re essential for safety and legality. If you ignore them, you can end up with fines or issues with future sales. According to UpNest, unpermitted work can lower the appeal of your home. Potential buyers may be wary of unpermitted work. That is why they provide permits to protect you and maintain quality standards.
Installing Improper Flooring
Putting carpet in bathrooms or kitchens might seem cozy, but it’s impractical. Moisture-prone areas can quickly cause carpets to become stained or mildewed. Instead of going with water-resistant materials, use tile or vinyl in places where spills or humidity occur frequently.
Painting Over Issues
While painting over cracks, stains, or mold spots may seem easy, it’s only temporary and won’t fool savvy buyers. Too often, these are symptoms of deeper problems that require real solutions. Ignoring the imperfection will only result in a larger outlay later.
Neglecting Curb Appeal
The outside of your home is the first impression potential buyers get, and failing to care for it could ruin that first impression. Landscaping, exterior paint, or broken pathways will make the property look unkempt, and it will appear neglected when ignored. Keeping your back outside in sync with the inside will maintain curb appeal and your house’s perception of value.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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