Not Tile, Not Paint: The Feature That Can Increase Your Home Value

Sometimes, it literally pays to be a bit different. Watch an episode of any real estate series, and you're likely to hear a specific complaint: potential home owners don't want to purchase something that feels cookie-cutter. 

For example, while they're sleek choices that reigned supreme for a lengthy stretch of time, all-white kitchens are officially on their way out, with buyers more likely to shell out for unique architectural features such as intricate crown molding or a box beam ceiling. Elevating finishes beyond the generic is one way to add value to your home. As Robert Aumann, real estate advisor and founding partner of Luxury SoCal Realty, previously explained in an exclusive interview with House Digest, "It's that sense of exclusivity that often appeals to high-end buyers, who want to feel like they own something truly unique, that's one-of-a-kind."

Particularly in a neighborhood where the homes can read similar, those special touches spike interest. As architecture firm Patterson Whittaker notes on their site, crown molding, window trim, and other architectural details give a property that little extra something. Even when surrounded by homes boasting the same square footage and number of bedrooms, a place with, say a tray ceiling in the living room will feel more finished and move-in ready. And when you're preparing to sell your house, those additional features can justify a higher list price.

If you're looking to build up your asking price, built-ins are a good place to start, whether it's a custom-designed bookcase, a stunning staircase, or even a wood feature wall. "Having custom-made woodwork in your house is proven to add value to a house," Paul Smith, an interior designer and woodwork expert at Woodworker Magic, told Homes and Gardens. Those types of bespoke, attention-grabbing details, he added, provide "a personality and aesthetic to a room" (and contribute to increasing a house's value). 

A fireplace can also stoke buyers' interest, particularly if it boasts eye-catching tile work or a particularly ornate mantle. And when it comes to adding architectural details, bigger is often better. Texas-based luxury interior designer Charmaine Wynter notes that crown molding reads more high-end when it's on the larger side. Similarly, she shared with Homes and Gardens, oversized door casing and window casing trim reads as rich. "This is the one place where fatter is favored," as she put it.

But no matter the elements you choose, focus on the quality. Features that are poorly installed or made with low-grade materials won't dress your home to impress. You'll also want to be cognizant of other home values in your neighborhood. Thoughtful, elegant details will certainly draw attention, but they won't necessarily justify a price that's well beyond other homes in the area.