When it comes to real estate, homeowners and investors often think that every dollar put into upgrades will directly increase their property value. The truth? Not all improvements are created equal. While some updates like modern kitchens or upgraded bathrooms can significantly boost your resale value, others cost more than they return.

At RP Capital Lending, we see this mistake all the time from fix-and-flip investors and homeowners alike. So before you dive into expensive renovations, let’s talk about the home improvements that don’t actually add much value and what you should focus on instead.

1. Swimming Pools – Fun, But Not Always Profitable

There’s no denying the appeal of a backyard pool. It screams summer fun, family gatherings, and luxury. But from an investment standpoint, swimming pools can be a liability:

• High Cost: Installing an in-ground pool often runs $30,000–$60,000.

• Ongoing Maintenance: Expect $3,000–$5,000 per year in cleaning, repairs, and insurance.

• Limited Buyer Pool: Many buyers see pools as a safety risk for kids or an expensive hassle.

Unless you’re in a luxury neighborhood where pools are the norm, adding one won’t boost your home’s market value enough to cover the cost.

Better Alternative: Focus on a functional backyard with clean landscaping, a deck, or a patio space these features are universally appealing without the ongoing expense.

2. High-End Fixtures – Style Without ROI

Installing designer faucets, imported light fixtures, or luxury hardware can elevate your space aesthetically but they rarely move the needle on appraisal value. Buyers usually care more about functionality and broad appeal than name brands.

• Cost vs. Value: A $1,200 faucet doesn’t bring 10x more resale value than a $120 one.

• Taste Specific: One buyer’s “luxury” might be another’s “outdated” in five years.

Better Alternative: Invest in mid-range, durable, modern fixtures that look good and last. These give your property a polished feel without breaking the bank.

3. Custom or Themed Rooms – Too Personal

A superhero-themed kid’s room, a medieval-style “man cave,” or a pink princess suite might feel special to you but to buyers, it’s often a renovation project they’ll need to undo.

• Niche Appeal: Customized spaces limit how easily buyers can envision themselves living in the home.

• Extra Costs: Buyers may mentally subtract renovation costs when making an offer.

Better Alternative: Keep rooms neutral and versatile. A bedroom should look like a bedroom, a den like a den. Let buyers picture their own style, not undo yours.

4. Bold Paint Colors & Textures – Risky Choices

Paint is one of the cheapest and easiest upgrades a homeowner can make. But going too bold think neon walls, textured paint, or dramatic accent finishes can turn buyers off quickly.

• Hard to Reimagine: Bright orange or deep purple walls might feel cozy to you but overwhelming to others.

• Time & Money: Buyers may see repainting as another project that adds cost.

Better Alternative: Stick with neutral shades like grays, whites, or soft earth tones. These make your home look fresh, clean, and move-in ready, which is exactly what most buyers want.

5. Sunrooms – Nice, But Overrated

Sunrooms add extra light and charm, but they usually don’t translate into higher property appraisals.

• Not Counted in Square Footage: Appraisers often don’t include sunrooms in total living space unless they’re fully heated and cooled.

• Seasonal Use: In many areas, they can only be comfortably used during certain months.

Better Alternative: Consider upgrading existing living space instead. Finishing a basement or attic often adds far more value because it expands usable square footage.

6. Wallpaper – Stylish, But Divisive

Wallpaper is making a comeback in interior design circles, but when it comes to resale, it’s a gamble.

• High Removal Cost: Many buyers don’t want to deal with stripping it down.

• Personal Taste: A floral print or geometric pattern can feel dated to some buyers.

Better Alternative: Go with a clean paint finish. If you love wallpaper, try a removable option so it can be changed easily.

7. Overdone Landscaping – Looks Good, Costs More

Beautiful gardens, fountains, or complex water features might impress at first glance, but most buyers think of maintenance before beauty.

• High Upkeep: Elaborate landscapes require constant watering, trimming, or professional care.

• Limited ROI: Buyers may prefer simple, low-maintenance yards.

Better Alternative: Aim for low-maintenance curb appeal. Fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, a new mailbox, and healthy grass go a long way without scaring buyers away with upkeep costs.

Final Thoughts – Invest Where It Counts

As a homeowner or investor, your money should work for you. Before you spend tens of thousands on upgrades, think about what future buyers really want:

• A clean, functional, and move-in-ready home.

• Neutral, versatile spaces they can personalize.

• Low-maintenance features that won’t add extra costs.

At RP Capital Lending, we help investors and homeowners make smarter financial decisions when it comes to real estate. By focusing on improvements that truly add value like kitchens, bathrooms, and smart, functional upgrades you can maximize your return on investment and avoid costly mistakes.

✨ Pro Tip: If you’re planning a fix-and-flip or a major renovation, always weigh the cost vs. ROI before diving in. A property that looks appealing and makes financial sense is the true winner in today’s market.

FAQs – Home Improvements That Don’t Add Value

Q1. Do swimming pools add value to my home?
Not always. In most cases, the cost and maintenance outweigh the resale value added, unless you’re in a luxury market.

Q2. Are custom rooms a bad idea for resale?
Yes, overly personalized rooms limit buyer appeal. Neutral spaces attract more offers.

Q3. Does landscaping increase home value?
Simple, low-maintenance landscaping does. Overdone gardens and water features rarely do.

Q4. Is wallpaper good for resale?
No. Wallpaper is highly taste-specific and often seen as extra work for buyers.

Q5. What home improvements add the most value?
Kitchens, bathrooms, fresh paint, and functional upgrades like flooring and energy-efficient systems give the best ROI.