Thinking of remodeling your home? 
Are you wondering how to avoid overspending or doing the wrong home improvement projects? 

As a local real estate agent in Central Florida, I keep an eye out for tips and trends in the market, including renovation projects. So I want to share with you the results of a recent report by MSN real estate identifying 8 overrated projects, why they are overrated, what people really want, along with my comments.

Whirlpool bath 
    Why? People don’t really use them. They take too much water, are noisy and hard to keep hot. 
    What they really want? Walk in shower. 
    I see that walk-in showers are very popular. It seems like most people just don't  soak in a tub these days.

New Family Room Addition  
    Why? Not cost effective, recoups only 65% of value.
    What they really want? A Change of usage in existing space, like converting dining room to an office.
    Square footage of homes had been increasing up until the plunge in home prices around 2007. So most newer homes 
    have a large footprint. These homeowners can reallocate space wisely, to do more with what they already have.

Upscale Kitchens
    Why? Is a kitchen upgrade really worth $150,000 to you? Even if it only recoups 63% of the cost when you sell?
    What they really want? European kitchens are becoming more modern, streamlined, not so ornate. 
    OK we are not Europe, we have a lot more space in this country and enjoy it. But I think that everyone
    is much more aware of the cost vs benefit, so a bit more frugality still can yield a magnificent kitchen.

Marble and Porous Counters
    Why? Scratches, burns, and stains easily.
    What they really want? Granite and man-made quartz are less fussy.
    This is really about a counter that will have a long lifespan without being baby-ed.

Deck Outside Master Bedroom
    Why? No one uses it.
    What they really want? Maybe a coffee maker in the bedroom would entice people out on that deck in the morning.
    Common living areas are more practical and get the most usage.

Elaborate Home Theater
    Why? A single purpose room is underutilized space.
    What they really want? A large Flat screen TV and incredible sound system in the family room.
    For resale, a more flexible room is more marketable.

Hot Tub
    Why? Upkeep and energy usage make it less attractive.
    What they really want? In Florida the spa that is part of the pool system replaces the stand alone hot tub.
    We really did not have many hot tubs with Florida homes. Maybe an ice tub would be more appropriate for our climate? 
    I think the pool/spa takes the place of the whirlpool tub and the hot tub.

Overly Complicated Home Automation System    
    Why? It can become obsolete, needing expensive maintenance, and hard to learn.
    What they really want? A simple automation system.
    Will the new home buyers ever be able to figure out your system. If not, it does not add value to the home.

These are just some ideas about overrated remodeling projects. Certainly if you are able to get enough enjoyment out of your project to say that it is worthwhile, than you have justified your expense. But when it comes to reselling your home, remember that no projects will recoup their full cost. So if you plan to sell your home in a few years, it is best to consider the resale value before proceeding.

If you have any questions for your Central Florida Realtor, send them to me.

Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant
Avalar Real Estate Services
www.HomesCentralFL.com
www.LakefrontHomes-CentralFL.com