Q: What Home Upgrades Should You Avoid?

When adding value to your home, avoid these two costly upgrades.

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If you want to add value to your home before you sell, there are two things you actually shouldn’t add to your house:

1. Windows. I had a client who wanted to replace his windows but was planning on moving in about two years. Within this time, he would not get all his money back. However, he decided to go ahead and get them because his current windows weren’t working properly.

New windows are a great idea if you’re improving your home for the long term. However, if you’re only going to be there for a short time, you won’t get your money back for that investment. (Of course, get them if you need windows that work correctly, like my client.)

New windows and solar panels are expensive, and you may not see a return.

2. Solar panels. Another client of mine had 22 panels installed on his house. At the time, the state was offering a tax credit on solar panels, so he only had to pay half the cost. He’s retiring and plans to stay in his home for a long time. His solar panels will decrease his monthly electricity bill, so it was an excellent investment.

However, a different client of mine is selling their house and has a lease on their solar panels. That lease has to be qualified by the new buyer. If you have solar panels on your home, remember that when you sell, that payment you’re making on them must be qualified by the buyer, and they may not be able to afford or get financing for that extra cost. Bottom line: You’ll save on utility costs if you plan to stay in the house long term, but there are extra costs associated with solar panels.

Also, check out this link to my video about the pros and cons of installing a pool on your property.

If you have more questions about home upgrades to avoid or real estate in general, feel free to reach out via phone, text, or email. I look forward to speaking with you soon.