The 5 renovation mistakes that instantly devalue your home (and how to avoid them)

Renovating your home should add value — but certain common mistakes can actually do the opposite.

Whether you're flipping, preparing to sell, or just improving your space, here are five renovation missteps that could seriously hurt your ROI.

1. Overpersonalised design choices
Bright purple walls, quirky tiling, or ultra-trendy fixtures might appeal to you — but buyers may just see "more work." Stick to a strong, stylish design palette with broad appeal.

2. Cheap kitchen and bathroom fittings
These are the most important rooms to get right. Skimping here can be costly. Instead of cutting corners, invest in quality taps, tiles and finishes that feel solid and modern.

3. Bad DIY work
Uneven floors, crooked shelves, or amateur tiling jobs are a red flag for buyers. Always bring in a professional where it counts — especially with structural or electrical work.

4. Knocking down the wrong walls
Open-plan spaces are popular, but removing walls without considering flow, load-bearing structure, or resale value can backfire. Consult a designer before making major layout changes.

5. Ignoring kerb appeal
The inside might be perfect, but if your entrance looks tired or messy, many buyers won’t bother coming in. A clean exterior, fresh paint, and simple landscaping go a long way.

At Suvdal Interiors, I help homeowners and investors avoid costly mistakes — and focus on renovations that truly add value.