“I’ve seen appraisals come in higher for homes with boring-but-solid upgrades like roof replacements or new HVAC systems, even if the kitchen was dated.”
Totally agree about the “boring” upgrades—nothing kills a deal faster than an old furnace or a leaky roof. But I’ll admit, it’s tough convincing folks that insulation is sexier than subway tile. I’ve had clients who wanted to blow their budget on custom cabinets, but when the appraisal came back, it was the new windows and upgraded plumbing that really made the difference. Sometimes you gotta remind yourself: shiny doesn’t always mean valuable.
Funny how people get hung up on granite counters or fancy fixtures, but when it comes time for an appraisal, it’s the stuff you barely notice that bumps up the value. I remember when we replaced our roof—felt like a boring way to spend money, but the appraiser actually mentioned it in his report. Meanwhile, our outdated bathroom didn’t seem to matter much. Ever notice how buyers walk in and comment on the backsplash, but inspectors and appraisers are all about the bones of the place? It’s not flashy, but it pays off.
Honestly, I’ve never understood the obsession with fancy counters either. People spend a fortune on upgrades that look good in photos, but appraisers barely blink. We had to fork out for a new HVAC last year—boring as heck, but it actually made a difference in the appraisal. Meanwhile, our kitchen is stuck in 2002 and nobody seems to care. If you’re tight on budget, I’d focus on the stuff that keeps the house standing and safe. Flashy finishes are nice, but they don’t move the needle where it counts.
