Some upgrades can greatly enhance the home’s value and functionality, while others may not justify the cost and, unless they mean something to you personally, are simply not worth the investment.
Luxury Finishes Worth the Spend
1. High-Quality Flooring
Investing in high-quality flooring is always worth the spend, as floors experience constant wear and tear, and they serve as the foundation for the rest of your interior design. Luxury flooring materials such as hardwood, marble, and high-end porcelain or natural stone tiles add timeless beauty and durability to your home.
Hardwood floors, especially in premium woods like oak, walnut, or Brazilian cherry, are a classic and durable choice. They’re highly sought after by buyers and can last for decades if maintained properly.
And marble, travertine, or granite floors bring an air of opulence to spaces like foyers, bathrooms, and kitchens. While they can be more costly upfront, they increase the home’s perceived value and offer a luxurious, polished look.
Quality flooring also enhances the aesthetic and increases the overall value of your home and buyers expect high-end homes to have premium flooring, so it’s often a non-negotiable feature in luxury properties.
2. Custom Cabinetry
Custom cabinetry is a luxury finish that is well worth the investment, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Rather than settling for standard, mass-produced cabinets, custom cabinetry allows you to design unique storage solutions tailored to your needs and space.
High-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and unique finishes ensure that your kitchen and bathroom have a high-end, cohesive look. These are generally regarded as the most important rooms in a home for resale value and custom cabinetry can transform the space into a functional work of art that appeals to luxury buyers.
Opt for solid wood rather than veneer or particleboard for longevity and a refined appearance. Custom cabinets can also be designed to fit unconventional spaces or include specialised features like pull-out pantries, soft-close drawers, or integrated lighting.
3. Smart Home Technology
In today’s luxury homes, smart home technology is becoming an expectation rather than an extra and integrated systems that control lighting, security, heating, and even entertainment can significantly enhance the home’s convenience and appeal.
Automated lighting and climate control are sought-after features as smart thermostats and lighting systems allow you to control your home’s environment with ease, saving energy and enhancing comfort.
High-end security systems, including smart locks, cameras, and alarm systems, give homeowners peace of mind. Many luxury buyers view these systems as essential, making it a worthwhile investment.
Smart home technology offers both practical benefits and an added layer of sophistication. It makes daily living easier and can be a strong selling point in the luxury market.
4. High-End Kitchen Appliances
Luxury home buyers expect high-performance, high-end kitchen appliances. Brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, and Viking are known for their superior quality, durability, and sleek designs.
High-end kitchen appliances not only improve your cooking experience but also significantly boost the home’s resale value. For buyers who prioritise quality, these appliances are must-haves.
Professional grade ovens and fridges are a must and those that offer precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and a modern aesthetic elevate the kitchen’s functionality and style.
And features like wine coolers are increasingly seen as luxury essentials rather than additional extras.
5. Spa-Like Bathrooms
A luxurious, spa-like bathroom can make a significant impact on a home’s overall appeal. Features such as walk-in showers with multiple shower heads, soaking tubs, heated floors, and custom vanities all contribute to a bathroom that feels like a private retreat.
Bathrooms are key selling points in luxury homes, and a spa-like experience will make your property stand out. These features create a sense of comfort and opulence that buyers in the luxury market expect.
Luxury Finishes to Avoid or Limit to Statement Items
1. Overly Ornate Fixtures and Finishes
While unique, ornate fixtures can add personality to a home, they can also quickly date the property or limit its appeal to potential buyers. Trendy or over-the-top designs often fall out of style, and buyers may view them as something they will need to replace.
So, although items like elaborate chandeliers, ornate balustrades and overly detailed taps will certainly make a statement, they may not suit everyone’s taste, and in a few years, they could appear outdated.
It’s generally better to opt for modern, elegant fixtures that have more universal appeal. High-quality materials and simple, timeless designs will age better and attract a wider range of buyers.
2. Expensive Wallpaper
Wallpaper can add texture and interest to a space, but it’s often not worth the high price tag because styles change, and removing or replacing wallpaper can be labour-intensive and expensive for future homeowners.
This is especially true of bold trendy wallpaper so if you do want to use wallpaper, stick to more classic designs and neutral colours and consider a statement wall rather than papering a whole room. Other options are textured wall coverings like wood panelling or stone, which are more timeless and luxurious.
3. Custom Built-Ins That Limit Versatility
While custom built-ins can add storage and style, overly specific designs or features may not appeal to every buyer. Built-ins designed for a specific use, like a custom entertainment centre or desk, can limit how future owners use the space.
Instead, opt for flexible storage solutions that can be adapted over time. Minimalist built-ins that provide general storage, like bookshelves or wardrobes, are a better investment.
4. Extravagant Outdoor Features
While outdoor spaces are important, some extravagant features don’t necessarily add value to a home. Installing features like oversized swimming pools and elaborate fountains or excessively landscaping the garden may not appeal to all buyers and can also be difficult and expensive for future owners to maintain.
Keep outdoor features elegant but simple, focusing on usable, low-maintenance spaces like patios, decks, or fire pits, which appeal to a broad range of buyers.
When investing in luxury home finishes, it’s important to focus on features that offer long-term value, timeless style, and practical benefits. By spending wisely on the right finishes, you can create a luxurious and lasting space that adds true value to your home.
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