Real estate isn’t just the pretty moments; it’s the problem-solving, the curveballs, and showing up calmly when things get chaotic. Still one of my favorite reminders of why I do what I do.
Brace yourself for the tough truth…
There’s nothing fun about telling a seller that the upgrades they invested in aren’t going to show up as a meaningful bump in their home’s value.
A common misconception is that whatever you spend on renovations automatically adds the same amount to the sale price. That’s not always the case. Some improvements cost relatively little but dramatically boost how buyers feel about a home, which can drive stronger offers. Others are expensive and barely move the needle.
And of course, if you made upgrades purely for your own enjoyment, that’s a different story. But if resale value is the goal, here are a few that often miss the mark:
1️⃣Solar panels
Many buyers struggle to see the immediate value since the savings happen over time. There are also concerns about long-term maintenance, ownership, and transfer terms, which can make panels more of a hesitation than a selling point.
2️⃣Garage conversions
Turning a garage into living space is costly and often doesn’t return what you put into it. Buyers frequently prefer having a garage, and in many cases appraisers won’t count the conversion as true living square footage.
3️⃣Over-the-top kitchen remodels
High-end appliances and custom cabinetry are expensive, but they don’t guarantee a higher sale price. Appraisals rarely credit these upgrades dollar for dollar, and bold or highly personalized finishes can limit buyer appeal. Nationally, sellers typically recoup only about 50–70% of the cost of a luxury kitchen remodel.
Helping sellers make smart upgrade decisions before listing is one of the biggest factors in maximizing value. These are just a few improvements that are often better skipped when resale is the priority.
Follow along for more real-world real estate insight.
Thank you Chad for pulling this great pic out! After hearing about Jobo’s passing it brought back so many memories. All of these guys have been such a huge part of my life.
