03/16/2026
Some renovations increase your home’s value. Some are a crime.
Here are 7 home renovations I’d never do to my own home (and what to do instead if you care about resale value.)
1. Converting your garage into a livable space. Buyers want off-street parking and storage. When you convert the garage, most people see this as a problem. Instead, keep it as a garage. Clean it up and organize the space so buyers see they have additional space to store tools, suitcases, and holiday decorations.
2. Trendy kitchen and bathroom remodels. You remember the above-the-counter sink trend circa the early 2000s? This kind of “statement piece” ages fast and can make your home feel dated. Instead, opt for timeless pieces and finishes.
3. Not having a bathtub. If your home has one bathtub and you rip it out, that automatically makes families with kids think twice about buying your home. Instead, update the bathroom with a tub/shower combo.
4. 11 times out of 10, DIY projects look cheap. Instead, hire a professional to give you a polished and professional look, feel, and finish.
5. Not pulling permits. This is a big red flag for buyers. They will wonder if the work is up to standard and safe. Instead, when you hire a professional, make sure they pull permits.
6. Multiple types of flooring in an open floor plan. When you have hardwood, tile, and linoleum in an open space, it’s visually busy. Instead, choose hardwood floors to cover the entire floor space.
7. Gray vinyl flooring is a crime. (I will have you arrested for hideousness.) Instead, restore or install new hardwood floors. This feature goes a long way toward appealing to buyers.
Share in the comments if you agree with anyone of these.
