Home renovation projects that could turn OFF potential buyers

MANY households are using lockdown to do some home improvements – but could your tweaks actually PUT OFF future buyers?

Some renovation projects are a safe bet, however others may actually cost you more in the long run if they devalue your pad. 

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So which trends are worth taking the plunge on, and which should you steer avoid?

Interior design whizzes and UK-based estate agents have given their professional insight…

Open-plan extensions are not always better

While open-plan living has been popular for the past few years, it is actually a drawback for many families thrust into working from home and homeschooling. 

There is now more of a need than ever for separate spaces for working, studying or fitness. 

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If you think your home could benefit from a new layout, perhaps you could opt for an extension or loft conversion instead. 

An extra bedroom or working space could be a better use of your money. 

Alternatively, you can always apply for planning permission which will make the home more appealing for future buyers who want to bring their own vision to life.

Bifold doors aren’t practical

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They may be all the rage, but bifold doors could actually be more of a hindrance than a help, according to the experts. 

Richard Page, marketing director at the estate agency Dexters, said to Femail: “Although bifolding doors in the kitchen look amazing, make sure you have another small opening window in the room for simple or quick ventilation. 

“Only having bifolding doors make be a great aesthetic choice but can be impractical for daily living.”

Avoid a hot tub and make the garden look “effortless” to run

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Outdoor space has never been more appealing with lockdown and many people have pulled out all the stops to make the best use of their garden.

However, Heather Young, editor of Ideal Home magazine, said that an elaborate garden could put people off.  

She said: “While buyers want to see a tidy and well organised garden, you can create the idea of living or dining zones by dressing areas with furniture or accessories, without the need for expensive landscaping.”

Richard added that hot tubs may not add any value for a buyer if they don’t want one in their garden.

Avoid feature walls and ‘trendy’ decor

Heather said that less can be more if you are updating your home, as trend-based designs can put buyers off. 

She said to opt for a “simple, minimal scheme” and use accessories and plants to add personality.

Richard added that you should opt for neutral colours, as on-trend colours can be “division” for home-hunters. 

And bold feature walls are also a “no”, and a less divisive alternative could be adding a picture rail which can be removed. 

Do spend your money on a new front door

The experts said that a new front door can actually help to make your home the most attractive on the street.

They advised upgrading your door and adding a complementary colour to make it look uniform.

An extra tip is to add window boxes to add a splash of colour to the front of your pad. 

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Ensuites aren’t always better

While it may seem like a good idea to add an ensuite to a bedroom, the gurus said it may end up being less than appealing. 

Richard explained that a miniscule bathroom created out of a corner of a roof may not add real value and could be an “ inconvenient” addition.

He also steered people away from adding a stand-alone bath in the master bedroom.

We shared how a DIY fanatic shared how to decorate your house on a tiny budget including an easy way to make your space look bigger.

We also revealed why painting your bedroom purple will boost your sex life & you MUST redecorate if your kitchen’s grey, says colour pro.

If you’re looking for some DIY inspiration, these are the best home transformations you can do for under £30 – from hotel-inspired bathrooms to stunning kitchen makeovers.

Single mum-of-two transforms drab flat into dream family home including a whole new ROOM for her son for just £12.50