Does Wallpaper Affect Your Home Value?

Wallpaper can be a great way to add visual interest and personality to a space. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular, particularly as the rise of peel-and-stick options has made it an easier project for DIYers to take on. However, wallpaper is also very taste-specific and can quickly make a space feel outdated — or even an eyesore. So, can it affect the value of your home? The answer is yes and no. While wallpaper isn't likely to impact your home appraisal value, it can make it less desirable to buyers, who may expect a discount to offset the hassle of having to remove it.

If your home is shrouded in bold printed paper, the good news is that to an appraiser, it won't matter much. Appraisers don't account for style preferences or cosmetic factors when determining a property's value. As long as the walls underneath the wallpaper are in good shape, it will not negatively impact the appraisal. But although an appraiser may not see removing wallpaper as an upgrade to raise a home's value, the same is not true when it comes to buyers, who are more willing to pay up for a home with bare walls. 

Depending on the age, style, and condition of the wallpaper, some homebuyers may not mind it, but wallpaper typically detracts from what buyers are willing to pay for a home. It is often viewed as dated and something that needs repair. If the wallpaper is used judiciously and is a more modern design, you might get lucky with buyers who won't expect a discount. However, if you're looking to get top dollar for your home, you may want to consider removing the wallpaper and painting your walls a color that appeals to buyers. 

Keep in mind, however, that getting rid of wallpaper can be very time-consuming and should be done carefully. Making mistakes when removing wallpaper can result in damage that might detract from the appraised value, such as scratches, dents, or peeling sections of drywall. If you're unsure how to go about it or simply don't have the patience required, you may want to call in a pro to get the job done.