16 Design Choices That May Lower Your Home's Value, as Advised by Real Estate Experts

A key benefit of purchasing or constructing a home is the freedom to personalize it. Whether you're starting from the ground up or updating an existing space to enhance its modernity and practicality, tailoring your home to your preferences can significantly improve your living experience.

That said, unless this is your permanent residence—and remember, life circumstances like job changes, shifts in relationship status, or other unexpected events can alter that—it's crucial to think about how your design choices might reduce your home's appeal, potentially leading to lower offers or buyers overlooking your property entirely.

“When selling your home, remember that buyers need to envision themselves living there,” says Kimberly Jay, a broker at Compass in New York City. “Your personal design preferences might not resonate with everyone and could even deter potential buyers, ultimately lowering your home’s market value.”

Jay, along with other industry experts, helped pinpoint design decisions that might negatively affect your home’s resale value.

1. Swapping a Bathtub for a Shower

While some buyers enjoy relaxing in bathtubs, others favor the practicality of showers. However, Kate Wollman-Mahan, an agent at Coldwell Banker Warburg in New York City, advises against removing bathtubs. “A home that appeals to families with young children must include at least one bathtub, ideally located near the children’s bedrooms.”

If your home has only one bathroom, avoid removing the bathtub, even if it means sacrificing space. “Even if you haven’t used the tub in years, it’s essential to keep it if it’s the only one in the house,” notes Laykin Cheshire, a listing agent for Stone Martin Builders in Montgomery, Alabama.

2. Adding Pools or Hot Tubs

While a pool may seem like the perfect addition for summer relaxation, a 2022 report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission highlights that child drownings remain alarmingly high, with non-fatal incidents rising by 17 percent. “Pools and hot tubs frequently become significant obstacles when reselling a home,” cautions Jonathan Self, a Chicago-based real estate broker. He notes that the most common question from buyer agents regarding homes with pools is the cost of removing them. “They’re enjoyable, but they also bring substantial responsibilities, including insurance liabilities and ongoing maintenance expenses.”

The same applies to hot tubs. “Many people find them unappealing or even unsanitary,” Self explains. While homeowners might see a hot tub as a relaxing retreat, potential buyers often view it as “a murky bath others have used.”

3. Opting for a Closed Floor Plan

Although some grew tired of open floor plans during the pandemic, David Greene, a Keller Williams realtor, host of the BiggerPockets real estate podcast, and author of *Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat*, advises against closed layouts. “If a parent can’t keep an eye on their kids from the kitchen, it becomes a dealbreaker,” he states. “Modern buyers prefer homes where they can easily monitor activities and enjoy natural light flowing throughout the space.”

4. Eliminating Bedrooms or Bathrooms

When redesigning for an open floor plan, be cautious about removing bedrooms or bathrooms. “Transforming a multi-bedroom home into one with fewer bedrooms but more open space can significantly harm its resale value,” explains Jennifer Tanner, an agent at Coldwell Banker Warburg in New York City.

“Home values are partly determined by their classification, such as whether they have three or four bedrooms,” Tanner notes. “If your home lacks the expected number of bedrooms for its size, you’ll miss out on buyers specifically searching for that configuration.” This is because your home may not even appear in their search results.

Combining bedrooms by removing walls is another risky move. “In real estate, bedrooms are invaluable: more bedrooms mean higher property value,” says Cheshire. While a spacious primary suite might appeal to some, she cautions that not everyone desires a large bedroom, especially if it reduces the number of rooms available for children, guests, or flexible use.

Cheshire also warns against removing closets to gain extra space. Like bedrooms, closets are essential, and a home with insufficient closet space is often a dealbreaker for buyers.

5. Overdoing Kitchen Appliances

While a high-end kitchen is often a homeowner’s aspiration, it’s easy to go overboard. “At luxury price points, buyers expect certain brands, but sometimes homeowners’ personal preferences exceed what typical buyers are comfortable with,” says Self.

He notes that many potential buyers feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar or overly complex appliances they don’t know how to operate.

Self also emphasizes that the quality of kitchen appliances should align with the home’s price range and neighborhood. “Be realistic,” he advises. “In starter homes, buyers won’t pay extra for premium appliances. In luxury homes, residents often don’t cook themselves, and in ultra-luxury areas, professional chefs handle the cooking with specialized equipment.”

6. Incorporating Bulky Built-ins

Built-ins can add uniqueness to your home, but they might not boost its value, as future buyers may not share your taste. “A room with a built-in desk for a home office might need costly modifications if the next owner wants to use it as a nursery,” Tanner explains. She adds that buyers might lower their offer to account for renovation costs, unlike if the space were left versatile. “The more permanent fixtures you have, the fewer options you leave for potential buyers,” Tanner notes.

7. Poor-Quality Home Upgrades

While DIY projects can save money during renovations, Self advises against painting kitchen cabinets yourself. “Step away from the brush—what looks decent from a distance often reveals flaws up close, especially with DIY work.”

He compares it to painting your own car, emphasizing that your home is far more valuable. “If you can’t afford to do it properly the first time, how will you afford to fix it later? It’s better to wait and invest in professional work than to risk damaging your home.”

Before hiring the cheapest contractor, ensure they’re skilled. “Poor craftsmanship can devalue your home, and subpar work in one area raises doubts about the entire property’s quality,” Cheshire warns.

8. Adding Illogical Home Extensions

While home additions can increase living space, functionality and design matter more. “Just because a contractor can build an addition doesn’t mean they understand architectural design—and you might not either,” says Patrick Roach, president of Southwestern Real Estate and a realtor in Wheaton, Illinois. He explains that contractors will build what you request, even if it’s not practical. “Adding a mother-in-law suite off the kitchen just because there’s space there might not be the best idea.”

Customizing your home to suit your needs doesn’t always add value for future buyers. Roach emphasizes that buyers prefer logical, functional floor plans. “A home’s value depends on its practicality. For example, having two full bathrooms loses appeal if one is in an unfinished basement, compared to a home with both bathrooms on the main level.”

9. Mismatching Exterior and Interior Styles

While interiors and exteriors serve different purposes, their design should flow seamlessly. Megan Fox, a broker with Compass in Bergen County, New Jersey, advises against having drastically different styles for the inside and outside of your home.

“Buyers feel disoriented when the home’s exterior and interior styles clash, as if they’ve stepped into a different era,” Fox explains. While first impressions are crucial, she notes that a stunning exterior followed by a jarring interior is a red flag. “A farmhouse exterior paired with a dated traditional interior is a common mismatch.”

10. Over-Personalizing Bathrooms and Kitchens

Excessive customization in bathrooms and kitchens can detract from your home’s value. “You might cherish the memory of a vacation where the bathtub was in the bedroom, but buyers are unlikely to share that sentiment or want such a setup in their daily lives,” says Kimberly Lyn Pressman of Nick Gavin Properties/Compass in New York City.

“If lime green bathroom tiles brighten your mornings, go ahead and install them, but don’t expect buyers to feel the same way,” Pressman advises.

She also cautions against splurging on extravagant features, like a $25,000 purple stove, as you won’t recoup the cost when selling. Cheshire agrees, adding that while marble walls and a large soaking tub might be your dream, high-end finishes often don’t provide a strong return on investment.

11. Opting for Non-Durable Materials

Beyond aesthetics, Tanner emphasizes the importance of material durability. “A beautiful marble countertop in neutral tones might seem like a smart investment, but it’s prone to scratches and stains, which can deter buyers seeking a pristine home,” she explains. Instead, she recommends synthetic alternatives that mimic the look. “These options are cost-effective upfront and maintain their appearance over time, preserving your home’s value.”

12. Designing Niche Spaces

Self notes a trend in Chicago where homeowners convert basements into bars, a feature that often doesn’t appeal to buyers. “The idea of a man cave might excite the current owner, but buyers see it as a renovation project,” he says. He often sees clients thrilled with a home until they reach the basement and start estimating the cost of removing the bar setup.

In fact, sellers often try to leave behind items like pool tables and bar equipment because they lack space elsewhere. While a well-designed bar or home theater can be appealing, Self advises ensuring the space can be easily repurposed. “A stunning entertainment area is great, but it shouldn’t limit the home’s versatility.”

This principle applies to other parts of the home as well. Cheshire points out that even specialized spaces like a gym or home office can deter buyers. “Avoid permanently altering rooms or garages into spaces that future homeowners might not desire.”

13. Overdoing the Garden Design

When designing outdoor spaces, it’s important to exercise restraint. “A beautifully landscaped garden might impress, but most buyers won’t share the same passion for gardening,” says Bret Weinstein, CEO of Guide Real Estate in Denver. “A few garden beds are acceptable, but an entire backyard filled with them can make buyers worry about the maintenance required to keep or remove them.”

14. Choosing Unconventional Flooring

Flooring renovations can be costly, and opting for unusual materials may limit your buyer pool, according to Mihal Gartenberg, an agent at Coldwell Banker Warburg in New York City. “In a buyer’s market, neutral flooring is the safest choice. Most buyers prefer hardwood floors throughout the home and neutral tiles in kitchens and bathrooms.”

Nicole Beauchamp, a real estate broker at Engel & Völkers in New York City, emphasizes that personal design choices, such as tile patterns, may not resonate with buyers. “When preparing to sell, you can either keep your unique tile design or replace it to appeal to a broader audience,” she advises.

15. Installing Carpet in Inappropriate Areas

While carpet can feel cozy, it’s crucial to avoid placing it near water sources. “Carpet near sinks or bathtubs is a major deterrent, as it can absorb water and lead to concerns about mold or stains,” says Weinstein. “Opt for washable mats instead to maintain the bathroom’s appeal.”

Self also warns against carpeting basements. “Basements aren’t waterproof, and carpeting them invites potential issues. Consider alternatives like luxury vinyl plank flooring.”

Additionally, Self notes that carpet in homes with children or pets can reduce resale value. “Carpet in such environments often shows wear and tear, making it less appealing to buyers.”

16. Incorporating Items with Long-Term Commitments

While not strictly a design decision, Self warns against adding features that involve long-term contracts. “Solar panels are a great idea, but the initial costs are high, and many systems come with lengthy payment plans,” he explains. Buyers may love your home but hesitate to take over such agreements. “This can complicate the sale and potentially lead to liens. If you invest in such features, ensure they’re paid off at closing and communicate this clearly to potential buyers.”