CHAPTER 3 Improvements That Cost ements That Cost More Than Their ROI
Over the course of many years, we have been conditioned to view almost any home improvement or repair as something that automatically increases the value of the home. We treat every project as a guaranteed return on investment (ROI) come selling time. In Northeast Florida’s nuanced market, this is simply not always true. When deciding whether to add an addition, purchase "pro-style" appliances, or install a backyard water feature, you must ask yourself: Is this a necessity or a nicety? Am I doing this for my own joy, or do I truly believe a buyer in St. Johns or Duval County will pay me back for it? Certain upgrades can actually make your home harder to sell. Let’s take a walk through your home and look at the "ROI traps" common to our area. New Carpeting? In our humid coastal climate, wall-to-wall carpet is increasingly becoming a liability. Buyers are wary of the allergens, sand, and moisture that Florida carpets inevitably trap. If they walk into a home with brand-new carpet, many won’t see "freshness"—they’ll see a future bill to rip it out and replace it with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or tile. If you have good flooring underneath, show it off. In Florida, hard surfaces that are easy to mop and cool to the touch are the gold standard for resale. It’s a Bedroom, Not a Zoo. We love our pets, but avoid making structural changes like built-in terrariums or elaborate pet 9
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