3 Home Improvements Best Left Undone

Not all home improvement ideas are good ones. In fact, there are some projects that not only won't add value, but might, instead, devalue a property. Knowing when to say no to an idea can mean the difference between financial gain and huge disappointment when it comes time to sell a home. Here are 3 renovations you might want to reconsider:

Obvious DIY Renovations

Unless you are a professional in the building trades, improvements that are designed to attract potential buyers and boost the value of the property are best left to professionals. By all means, use DIY skills to perform routine maintenance and easy repairs, but when the work requires precision, there is no substitute for experience and the right tools.

This includes anything that involves the structure, the functioning of major systems, or safety and security issues. A good general rule is that if a buyer is going to expect a warranty, let a qualified professional provide it. While it is not beyond the realm of possibility to install a new ceiling light, replacing an air conditioning compressor is a job for a licensed technician.

In the same vein, a homeowner can and should trim the shrubbery, but if a tree must be removed, schedule an arborist. If you are not a professional, it's best to not tackle a repair or a replacement that requires a license or a building inspection, such as major plumbing and electrical work.

Amenities and Installations Too Rich for the Neighborhood

Swimming pools may be desirable and common, while a full outdoor kitchen would be deemed ostentatious and unnecessary. A dual-vanity master bath with separate tub and shower are attractive features in homes of all price ranges, but a dedicated home gym with steam room, cold plunge pool and mini running track is worthless space for all but serious fitness fanatics.

Only you can make the decision about what is good and what is simply too much. However, think seriously before you add a feature or undertake a renovation that costs 15 to 20 percent of the home's current valuation. Chances are you won't be able to recoup the money spent.

Overly Customized Interiors

Some paint decor options fall in this category; a room with black painted walls, for instance. Choose amenities with broad appeal. Think twice about perks like temperature-controlled wine cellars, professional-style music studios or performance stages, darkrooms and glass-walled greenhouses, rooftop decks, home elevators, or specialty kitchen appliances like an indoor grill or a built-in wok.

If you tend toward the mainstream in color choices, flooring, wall coverings and built-ins, chances are better than average that your home will be relatively easy to sell. The goal should be to anticipate a fair return on your investment.

Cimarron home improvements can add to the value of a home. However, some home improvements should be avoided. Check with a local professional real estate agent to see what home improvements they might recommend for your area.