Elaine Cooper recently sat down with Sarah Mitchell, a seasoned real estate agent from Manchester, to discuss the ins and outs of home improvements that don’t necessarily add value. Sarah shared her insights on how modest home improvements that enhance cleanliness, safety, and functionality are often better investments for sellers, according to research by Zillow.
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When it comes to home improvements, Sarah has seen it all. From extravagant swimming pools to elaborate walk-in closets, she’s witnessed firsthand how certain projects can be more a labour of love than a boon to the resale value. “It’s really about understanding what adds value to a home and what simply satisfies personal preferences,” Sarah began, sipping her coffee at a local café where we met.
Sarah explained that one of the most common misconceptions among homeowners is that every improvement will bring a dollar-for-dollar return. “People often think that if they spend £20,000 on a luxury bathroom remodel, they’ll get all of that back when they sell. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case,” she noted.
Sarah highlighted that while a beautifully renovated bathroom or kitchen can certainly make a home more appealing, the return on investment isn’t always as high as one might expect. “For instance, a mid-range bathroom remodel might see about a 67% return on investment, but if you go high-end, that figure drops significantly,” she explained, referencing the Remodeling 2023 Cost vs. Value Report.
One of the most enlightening parts of our conversation was Sarah’s take on the importance of modest improvements. “It’s the simple changes that often make the biggest difference,” she emphasised. “Ensuring your home is clean, safe, and functional can go a long way in attracting buyers. These are the improvements that really pay off.”
Sarah shared an anecdote about a client who invested in wall-to-wall carpeting throughout their home, hoping it would add warmth and charm. “Unfortunately, carpets just don’t have the appeal they once did. In fact, homes with new carpet often sell for slightly less than those without,” she said, citing recent data.
Instead, Sarah recommends focusing on home maintenance, which she believes has a substantial impact on value. “A well-maintained home can sell for about 10% more than a similar home in average condition. Simple tasks like cleaning gutters and resealing grout can make a significant difference,” she advised.
When it comes to more substantial projects, Sarah cautioned against trends that might not stand the test of time. “Trendy home updates might seem appealing now, but in five or ten years, they could detract from the value. It’s important to think long-term,” she suggested.
Sarah also touched on outdoor improvements, like adding a deck or installing a swimming pool. “While these can enhance your personal enjoyment, they don’t always add the value you might expect. A wood deck, for example, only recoups about half of its cost at sale,” she noted.
Throughout our conversation, Sarah stressed the importance of understanding buyer preferences. “Buyers today are looking for practicality. They’re drawn to homes that are move-in ready and don’t require a lot of extra work,” she said.
As we wrapped up our discussion, Sarah left readers with a piece of advice: “Before you embark on any home improvement project, ask yourself if it’s something you truly want for your own enjoyment or if you’re doing it to add value. If it’s the latter, make sure it’s a project that genuinely aligns with buyer expectations.”
Sarah’s insights were both enlightening and practical, offering a grounded perspective for homeowners looking to sell. Her emphasis on modest improvements and regular maintenance underscores the value of a thoughtful approach to home ownership.
By Elaine Cooper
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