Great article to read if you are thinking about remodeling your home: http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=24921642

HERE ARE SOME HIGHLIGHTS:

1. Whirlpool bath:
Once a luxury…now more like a waste of valuable space!

2. Room additions:
These days..its all about conversion! Making the most of the space you already have.

3. Versailles’ kitchens:
It’s just too much, too expensive, too fancy! The new look is streamlined, clean, modern…and in most cases you will recoup more of your money this way.

4. Marble counters (or other porous surfaces):
While luxurious and often looks great, its no longer the most preferred. Granite and other nonporous surfaces such as man-made quartz counters are better long-term picks than marble and cost much less.

5. Deck off the master bedroom:
It’s not cheap, it needs to be maintained, and most people just don’t use it enough to justify the cost.

6. Elaborate home theaters:
Too much work for a room with just one purpose. Buyers prefer spaces that are versatile..like a family room that is wired for sound, rather than an elaborate home theater!

7. Hot tub:
Although this sounds like a relaxing feature…often times it just becomes a burden with the expensive energy costs, repairs, and upkeep…it’s not always so relaxing, but rather unnecessary. Plus this space can be used for a garden or outdoor kitchen!

8. Overly complicated home automation:
“It’s hard to tell people to stay away from something that sounds smart and could save them on their home-energy costs. But it’s easy to go too far with home automation, the centralized control of audio, video, lighting, heat and household appliances, experts say.” I can tell you first hand…THIS OFTEN SCARES BUYERS AWAY!! All the buttons, all the gadgets, all the switches…it can be overwhelming to a buyer and I have personally seen my clients get freaked out at the idea of too many switches and buttons that they just cannot figure out!

The lesson here…Remodeling and updating is fantastic…not only can it make you money, but you’ll probably enjoy your home a lot more! The important thing to remember is that it’s all about spending your money wisely and making your home appealing to as many potential buyers as you can, rather than alienating them with overly customized features and unnecessary splurges!

If you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in a property in Los Angeles, please feel free to contact me anytime.