Andrew Winter (pictured),host of Love It or List It, has revealed the renovation trends to try and those to avoid
Australian property guru Andrew Winter has revealed the renovating trends that add value to a home – and those that don’t.
The celebrity real estate agent and star of Love It or List It said if you are considering an addition, it is worth knowing what extras are worth the investment and will get you the biggest return on selling.
He said savvy homeowners should ditch popular fads like a butler’s kitchen and embrace the space-enhancing aspects of skylights or a second ensuite.
1. The butler’s pantry
According to Andrew, the butler’s pantry is an interior trend that has slowly starting to become fashionable again.
However, it is not one the property expert is convinced works.
A butler’s pantry is a second kitchen within the main kitchen, however, this isn’t always the greatest use of extra space
He explained the space (which is a kitchen within a kitchen) is meant as a room to put dirty dishes, stack pots and pans and ‘to do your messy prep’.
Andrew said if you do have extra kitchen space, about improving the area by adding a second fridge or designing it for overflow storage.
‘An alternative is the corner pantry, which is something we all had as kids but you don’t see anymore. They can be great for storage,’ he told Realestate.com.au.
Verdict: Trend to avoid
2. The media room
A media room is a space that is generally used as a second entertaining area, one usually dedicated to watching television, movies or sport.
The ubiquitous flat-screen television is a must, as is a surround sound system and an abundance of luxury seating.
As far as being a worthwhile investment, Andrew cautions against this, saying unless you live in a mansion stay away from the ‘dated feature’.
The media room is a luxury addition to any home, however, according to Andrew it is now considered an outdated feature
‘It doesn’t add value to your home. You’re better off having that living area or that second living room that can be put to better use,’ he said.
If you do have space like this in your home and have toddlers or young children, consider creating a dedicated play area where you can store toys.
Or if you have teenagers, Andrew recommends converting this into a space where they can get away from parents.
Verdict: Trend to avoid
3. A skylight
Adding light to the home is always a worthwhile investment, but if you want to capitalise, make sure if this comes with a direct view of the sky.
Skylights are not a new design idea.
However, modern versions of the feature mean they can be used to make a dramatic statement or can now be installed in impossible places.
Skylights are a worthwhile investment, especially if they are added in such a way that makes an interesting or unexpected style statement
‘Intelligent skylights allow for both low and high angled light to be absorbed, that results in more light at any time of the day,’ Andrew said.
He added hybrids are ideal for situations where traditional skylights are impossible to install.
Verdict: Trend to embrace
4. A second ensuite
If there is one renovation worth considering, it is adding a second ensuite to a bedroom, in particular, a bedroom which has access to the living area.
Andrew explained adding an extra bathroom to a bedroom instantly converts the space to a second master suite – a move that doesn’t just add value at resale.
Adding an extra bathroom to a bedroom instantly converts the space to a second master suite
He said as well as providing space for visiting guests or relatives, a self-contained room could potentially be rented out and bring in extra income.
According to George Nikos, Sydney real estate agent, bathrooms, not kitchens have the most impact on sales.
He said a renovated bathroom, or a second bathroom, is one of the best ways to add value to a home.
Verdict: Trend to embrace