Home renovations don't always boost property values, an expert warned. Some "improvements" can actually devalue your home by creating niche or undesirable features.
From swimming pools to cinema rooms, certain additions might limit your pool of potential buyers.
Property expert Joshua Houston from WhatCost has identified seven renovations that could decrease your home's worth rather than enhance it.
Swimming pools
Swimming pools might seem luxurious, but they can decrease your property's value, Joshua explained. In the UK's climate, pools can only be used during limited warm days each year.
They're expensive to run and maintain, creating ongoing costs that many buyers want to avoid. Some purchasers may even factor in the cost of removing the pool, further reducing what they're willing to pay.
Cinema rooms
Cinema rooms may be a film lover's dream, but they aren't universally appealing.
These installations are costly and add no real value to a property, the expert continued.
Potential buyers will quickly determine if such a room would be useful to them. If they don't see themselves using it, this specialised space could become a deterrent to purchase.
Brightly coloured exteriors
The property pro explained a vibrant home exterior might express your personality but could "limit your property's appeal". Houses that stand out dramatically from neighbouring properties in traditional areas can struggle to find buyers.
Those who prefer brighter colours are relatively rare in the market. Potential buyers may calculate repainting costs and deduct this from their offer price.
Converted garages
Converting your garage into a gym or office might seem practical, but can reduce your property's value, Joshua added. Many buyers specifically seek homes with garages for car storage or other belongings.
Removing this feature can significantly decrease demand for your property. Lower demand ultimately translates to a lower market value when selling.
Built-in electronics
Built-in electronics might save space but can devalue your property, the expert claimed. What works for you may not appeal to future buyers.
Some potential purchasers might view these permanent fixtures as wasted space or unnecessary running costs. Removing built-in electronics is more complicated than standalone items, creating additional expense for new owners.
Over-personalised designs
Making your home uniquely yours is natural, but excessive personalisation can reduce its value. Not everyone shares the same taste in décor or design.
Buyers faced with highly personalised features like unusual colour schemes or themed rooms may calculate renovation costs. These anticipated expenses to neutralise the space will likely be deducted from what they're willing to pay.
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Removing bedrooms
Converting spare bedrooms into other spaces can seriously lower your property's value. The number of bedrooms typically correlates directly with a home's price.
This is particularly common when children move out and parents repurpose their rooms. While you might benefit from a home office or gym, potential buyers may be deterred if there aren't enough bedrooms to meet their needs.
Joshua said: "We all take pride in our homes, but we also want to know that the money we're putting into improving our property is worthwhile.
"Not everything that is popular to you will be welcomed by others, so it's important to keep that in mind if you ever plan to sell. Having a desired property increases its value, so do everything in your power to get as much money as possible."
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