Do Closets Increase a Home’s Value?
The addition of closets, particularly walk-in closets, can significantly enhance the living experience and potentially increase a home's value. Walk-in closets offer ample storage, which is a highly desirable feature, especially for full homes and professional settings like home offices or fitted wardrobes.
Construction companies often recommend built-in storage systems, believing that they can make a property more appealing to potential buyers. This is certainly true: well-designed and well-installed closet systems can add a distinct aesthetic and practical value to a home. However, the impact on home value is not as straightforward as one might think.
Adding Value Through Closets
From a practical standpoint, a walk-in closet provides much-needed extra storage space, reducing clutter and making rooms more functional. This benefit, however, is often undermined by the cost and the potential lack of resale value. High-end closet systems, while offering luxury and convenience, can be quite expensive.
Additionally, the quality and customization of these systems greatly influence their worth. Many closet systems are tailored to suit the needs of their owners, but this personalization can result in a less appealing product for resale. This is why it's crucial to consider whether the investment in a top-tier closet system will yield the desired return on investment.
Practical Improvements for Value
Some practical improvements can still boost the value of your home. Adding lights to closets, especially ones that turn on automatically when the door is opened, is a nice touch. For layouts with limited drawer space, consider structuring a closet to serve as an alternative to a dresser. This can be especially effective in closets with ample space and small bedroom sizes or in areas where a dresser is not a viable option.
These modifications can indeed increase the property’s appeal and value, but the crucial factor is whether the improvements will cover the installation costs. Investing in poorly designed or installed systems can be counterproductive, as they may not add significant value or may even decrease it due to their limitations.
The Importance of Proper Installation and Design
Properly installed and well-designed closet systems can enhance a home’s overall value. However, when installations are rushed or poorly executed, the benefits can diminish. Often, the real value lies in systems that complement the house and the room in which they are installed.
One aspect to avoid is the "cedar lining" upgrade, which is often seen in new constructions or after major renovations. Without an abundance of moths, cedar lining may not be necessary, and in some cases, it can even decrease the home's value. It's best to skip this upgrade unless there is a specific need for protection against pests.
In conclusion, while closet systems can significantly add to a home's value, the key is to strike a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and cost. Practical, well-installed systems can enhance the living experience and boost the property's value, provided they are tailored to the specific needs of the home and the expected future buyers.