Owning a home in South Africa is a big deal. It’s your sanctuary, your castle, your ultimate braaispot. But while we all want our homes to shine like a diamond in the rough, some upgrades just don’t add that sparkle to your property’s value. Before you splash your cash on ‘the next big thing’, let’s set the record straight. Here are a few things that won’t send your home’s value soaring… So you can save your bucks for, well, actual value-adding improvements.
A pool that looks like a waterpark
Sure, a pool sounds like a dream on a hot summer’s day, but turning your backyard into the Lost City isn’t going to have buyers splashing out extra. Pools are pricey to maintain and, let’s be real, not everyone wants to host every kid in the neighbourhood. Keep it simple… Or skip it altogether if resale value is your main goal.
A kitchen Gordon Ramsay would faint over
Granite countertops, gold taps, and a fridge that talks? Amazing! But spending hundreds of thousands on a state-of-the-art kitchen doesn’t mean buyers will match your enthusiasm with their wallets. Most people just want functional space to make their pap en vleis.
A bathroom fit for royalty
While we offer insurance fit for royalty, sometimes some fittings should just stay in Buckingham Palace. We’re talking marble floors, heated towel rails, and a bathtub that could double as a mini-jacuzzi. Fancy? Yes. Value-boosting? Not so much. Bathrooms are about practicality. If it’s clean and has a decent showerhead, you’re already winning.
Trendy paint colours
Your Instagram-inspired sage green living room may scream ‘style’, but buyers might see ‘repaint budget’. Stick with neutral, timeless colours instead of chasing trends. Sorry, sage, but you’re not everyone’s cup of rooibos.
A backyard oasis
A koi pond? Lovely. Exotic plants? Stunning. But remember: Not everyone has the time (or budget) to keep up with Tarzan-level landscaping. Less is often more when it comes to gardens.
Built-in ‘extras’ no one wants
Home theatres, wine cellars, and custom bars are great conversation starters, but unless the next owner shares your exact taste, they might not be willing to pay extra for them. (Not everyone needs a wall-mounted popcorn machine.)
Don’t get carried away with home upgrades
While some improvements are worth it, others are just expensive hobbies in disguise. But 1 thing that does add value to your peace of mind? Protecting your castle with King Price buildings insurance. Whether your walls are neutral or neon, we’ve got you covered for accidental damage, theft, and natural disasters. You might not be able to increase your house’s value with a unicorn fountain, but you can protect its current worth with affordable insurance. Talk about a win-win!
Get a commitment-free quote today from the king of insurance by simply clicking here or chatting to us on WhatsApp 0860 50 50 50.