Save Your Money—Designers Say These 5 Home “Upgrades” Are Never Worth It

Home upgrades are meant to bring you joy and added functionality, but these changes aren’t always guaranteed value-boosters when it comes time to selling. The truth is, there are a few upgrades that might seem like a good idea at first, but end up sapping your time and money.

We spoke with two interior designers who shared where you can save money and even included a few upgrades that are totally worth the investment.

Luxury Bathroom Fixtures

Turning your bathroom into a spa-like space is tempting, whether it’s through a new waterfall shower head or fancy bathtub. But designer Colleen Bennett says to skip out on these fixtures and save money on other upgrades.

There are other, more affordable ways to upscale your bathroom, like adding a few well-placed candles or replacing the shower head without having to pull up tile and call in a specialist.

Although a snazzy free-standing tub or heated floors might “add a luxurious touch,” Bennett says “they can be costly to install and maintain without significantly boosting home value.”

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Expensive Smart Home Systems

A smart system might sound like an instant no-brainer, but interior designer Carolyn Cerminara begs to differ. Technology moves too fast for an enormous investment to pay off in many instances.

This might sound shocking to some homeowners, but Cerminara points out it’s not the right step for every home—it’s better to balance practicality with your budget. She also notes that future homeowners might find the system you choose to be too complex and confusing.

What to do instead? Opt for the essentials. She says thermostats, lighting, and security systems are “simple, budget-friendly, and provide instant benefits like energy efficiency without overwhelming people with too much tech.”

Swimming Pools and Water Features

Both Bennett and Cerminara said that adding water features and swimming pools can lead to costly maintenance bills, an over-the-top finish that doesn’t fit in with rest of your home, and a lot of work.

Cerminara recommends putting that portion of your budget towards landscaping and your existing outside areas. She says these upgrades are more “versatile, add real value, and create a beautiful, relaxing outdoor space without the unnecessary extravagance.”

Bennett also points out there are only a few regions where you can really make the most of a swimming pool for more than a couple of months out of the year.

“They rarely provide a strong return on investment,” she says.

Over-Customized Built-Ins

This might be one most people don’t think of, but if you have a particular passion or hobby and are considering a built-in system, cabinetry, or desk catered to it, make sure it’s not too customized.

Bennett says that while they “can look beautiful, overly specialized designs (like a built-in desk for a specific hobby) may not appeal to future buyers and can be expensive to remove or remodel.” They limit flexibility and can be seen as too niche.

This doesn’t mean you can’t designate a room or area of your house to your favorite things, but if you’re looking to sell at some point, be conscious of permanent renovations.

Luxury Kitchen Appliances

Kitchens are a point of debate in terms of upgrades, but Bennett and Cerminara both pointed out that it’s simply a matter of choosing the right changes.

“People often assume that luxury kitchen appliances will attract buyers, but in reality, most buyers prioritize layout and cabinetry over premium brands,” Bennett says. “Expensive appliances can also become outdated quickly.”

If ideas of high-end ovens and fancy brand-name refrigerators were floating around your head, reserve that chunk of money for ensuring other fixtures are in mint condition before you sell.

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth Your Money

With a good picture of the upgrades designers view as non-essential, it’s a good idea to know which renovations are worth the effort. Here is what these interior experts recommended:

• Select kitchen upgrades: “Simple changes like adding sleek, modern cabinetry or energy-efficient appliances can totally change how the kitchen feels and functions,” Cerminara says. So skip the bougie fridge and opt for new cabinets or countertops.
• Curb appeal enhancements: Bennett says to try refreshing your front door, adding new exterior lighting, and getting your front and back yards into tip-top shape. “It can make a great first impression on buyers,” she says.
• Energy-efficient adjustments: While these might not be the most aesthetically pleasing investments, they are smart moves financials. Bennett says to consider new “insulation, energy-efficient windows, and smart thermostats” as these won’t only reduce your bills, but they’ll “appeal to eco-conscious buyers, providing a solid return on investment.”
• Specific bathroom upgrades: A free-standing tub or extreme plumbing reconfiguration isn’t necessary. Cerminara says it’s all about impactful touches that give you the best bang for your buck, like new lighting or modern tile.
• Lighting and paint: Upgrades don’t have to cost a fortune to be beneficial, as lighting and paint upgrades prove. Bennett notes that these won’t break the bank, but they will “make a home feel updated and appealing” and “instantly enhance the look and feel of a space.”