7 House Features That Buyers Always Overpay For

Swimming Pools: Depending on where you live, a swimming pool can be a great addition to your home. However, if a swimming pool is on your list of features to have, make sure you're paying an appropriate price. "Many buyers pay a premium for homes with swimming pools, expecting it to be a significant advantage," said Kristin Hintlian, the co-founder of Bonsai Builders. "While it can certainly be a luxury, the costs associated with maintaining a pool are often underestimated. Pools require regular maintenance and cleaning and can escalate your home insurance rates."

Overpriced Kitchens: If the kitchen is the crown jewel of your home, you'll want to ensure you have a bright and beautiful one. But that doesn't mean you must invest in one that costs more than all the royal family's gold. As a real estate investor and the owner and founder of Michigan Houses for Cash, Sergio Aguinaga knows a thing or two about home values. He explained that buyers often overpay for high-end kitchen upgrades, such as granite countertops or custom cabinets, that they might not need. "I advise clients to assess whether these upgrades truly add value or if they are simply driving up the home's price," he said.

Luxury Bathrooms: Who doesn't love the idea of soaking in a massive whirlpool tub? Or stepping out of your slippers and standing on heated bathroom floors? According to Aguinaga, turning your bathroom into an in-home spa is appealing but costly in ways that aren't always worth the cost. "Buyers can overspend on luxury bathroom features like heated floors or whirlpool tubs. I tell clients to consider if these features are worth the price because they rarely recoup their full resale value," he said.

Finished Basements: Aguinaga admitted that a finished basement can add space to a home; however, buyers should be aware of paying too much for this feature, especially if the work is poorly done. If work doesn't meet your expectations, you must go through the price negotiation process.

Extensive Landscaping: Landscaping can improve a home's curb appeal, boosting its value. However, it doesn't need to be extreme. Proper landscaping can be as simple as trimmed bushes, attractive plants or flowers, and manicured grass. Some people get carried away by adding exotic plants, fountains, and other water features. While these can look great, they drastically increase the price tag and aren't exciting to everyone. If you're purchasing a home with extensive landscaping, ensure you're not paying a premium. "While a beautifully landscaped yard can undoubtedly enhance a property's appeal, it's crucial to approach this feature cautiously," said Scott Sloan, the founder of Grand Exit Property Acquisition Group.

Overly Specific Customizations: You might love having a customized fish tank built into your family room if you love fish. However, that doesn't mean the next person will feel the same. This also applies to other customizations, like a sauna in the basement or a steam shower in the main bathroom. If the home's price tag reflects these upgrades, think twice. You cannot recoup your investment once you decide to sell. "I had a client that invested a significant amount of money in building a custom wine cellar in their home," said Matt Stigliano, a real estate broker at Kimberly Howell Properties. "However, when it came to selling, few prospective buyers were wine enthusiasts and didn't see the addition as justifying a higher price."

Specialty Flooring: If you take pride in every home detail, you've probably considered your floors. However, according to Elyse Sarnecky, marketing director at Marketplace Homes, you don't need to invest in specialty flooring, like exotic hardwoods or upscale tiles. Many affordable options offer a similar, luxurious look without the steep price.