Removing a bedroom
The kids have finally flown the coop, and you have an extra bedroom you don’t need. That spa-like master ensuite is about to become a reality as soon as you remove the walls. But is it something a real estate agent would do? Not a chance. “You may not need the extra bedroom, but future buyers may,” says Madison. Not only does removing a bedroom lower your home value in comparison to other homes with similar square footage, but it also takes you off potential buyers’ shortlists. This is especially true if your house is located in a family-oriented neighbourhood, where an extra bedroom can make or break a deal.
Installing mismatched flooring
It’s all about continuity – a seamless flow from one room to the next. Head says living with mismatched flooring, whether it is tile, carpeting or hardwoods, might not seem like a big deal in your day-to-day life, but when you decide to sell, it becomes a glaring eyesore. “Transitions from one room to the next should be uniform. If not, you could lose a potential buyer because they may feel like there’s too much work to be done to make the flooring look uniform,” says Head.
Splurging on custom kitchens and baths
“Bathrooms and kitchens sell houses because they are the most costly and troublesome to renovate,” says Parks. However, if you splurge on custom finishes, lighting, tile and other housing components that are too custom for the majority of people, you’re not likely to recoup your money. “Figure out a reasonable budget for your kitchen and/or bath that will add value, not exceed the return and cost you money in the end,” she advises.
