Home improvements can absolutely help you sell faster and for more money. The problem is that not every upgrade adds value in the Bakersfield real estate market. Some projects limit your buyer pool, trigger appraisal concerns, or create red flags during inspections. In the end, that can mean fewer offers, longer days on market, or a lower sales price.

Below are seven common remodel decisions that often hurt resale value, along with smarter alternatives that tend to perform better when it is time to sell. If you are planning upgrades and want guidance specific to your neighborhood and price range, a local Bakersfield Realtor can help you focus on the projects that buyers actually pay for.

1) Converting the Garage Into a Room

Why it hurts resale in Bakersfield

In Bakersfield, buyers consistently value functional garages. A garage is not just “nice to have.” It often equals secure parking, storage, and a buffer from summer heat. When a garage is converted to living space, many buyers see it as a loss, not a gain. It can also raise questions about permitting, insulation, HVAC, and whether the conversion will appraise as true living area.

Better options that protect value

• Make the garage look intentional and clean. Clear it out, add sturdy storage, and create defined zones for storage and parking.

• Consider an epoxy floor or sealed concrete. A clean floor photographs well and signals “move-in ready.”

• Improve lighting. Bright, even lighting makes the space feel larger and more usable.

• If you truly need extra space, explore permitted solutions. A properly permitted addition or an approved outbuilding strategy often holds value better than an informal garage conversion.

Quick tip

If a garage conversion already exists, disclose what you know, gather permits (if they exist), and be prepared for appraisers and buyers to treat it differently than standard living space.

2) Removing the Only Bathtub

Why it hurts resale

If your home has only one tub and you remove it, you may lose a major segment of buyers, especially households with young children or buyers who prefer a bathtub for practical reasons. Even buyers without kids often like having at least one tub for flexibility.

Smarter bathroom updates

• Replace the old tub with a modern tub-shower combo. This keeps functionality while updating the look.

• Upgrade the shower surround and fixtures. Clean tilework, a quality surround, and updated fixtures can deliver a strong visual impact.

• Choose neutral finishes. In most Bakersfield homes, timeless sells better than trendy.

Quick tip

If you want a walk-in shower, the best scenario is often adding it while still keeping at least one tub somewhere in the home.

3) Going Too High-End on a Luxury Kitchen

Why it hurts resale value

A very high-end kitchen does not always return what it costs, especially when it pushes the home beyond what buyers expect for the neighborhood. Over-improving can create a gap between your price and nearby comparable sales, which can lead to appraisal issues. Buyers love updated kitchens, but they do not always pay dollar-for-dollar for premium finishes.

What tends to perform better

• Mid-range, high-impact upgrades usually win on resale:

  • Updated counters that fit the home’s price point

  • Refreshed cabinet faces or professionally painted cabinets

  • Modern hardware

  • Updated lighting

  • A clean, cohesive appliance set

• Focus on function. Buyers notice layout, storage, and workflow as much as finishes.

Quick tip

Before spending heavily, compare your planned finish level to recently sold homes in your immediate area. A local Bakersfield Realtor can help you identify what buyers are expecting right now.

4) DIY Projects That Do Not Meet Code or Lack Permits

Why it creates problems when you sell

Unpermitted or poorly executed work can scare buyers. It can also show up during inspections, lender conditions, or insurance questions. Even when the work looks fine, buyers may worry about what they cannot see behind walls. That uncertainty often turns into price reductions or repair requests.

The safer approach

• Pull permits when required. Electrical, plumbing, structural changes, and major modifications should be permitted when applicable.

• Use licensed professionals for critical work. Especially for electrical panels, gas lines, plumbing changes, and structural modifications.

• Keep documentation. Receipts, contractor invoices, and permit records help reduce buyer anxiety.

Quick tip

If you already completed work without permits, talk with a knowledgeable professional about options before listing. The right strategy depends on the scope of work and how the market will perceive it.

5) Turning Bedrooms Into Closets, Gyms, or Other Single-Purpose Spaces

Why it hurts resale

Buyers shop by bedroom count. If you remove a bedroom or make it impossible to use as one, the home can effectively drop into a different category. That can reduce demand and lower value, even if the space looks impressive as a custom closet or home gym.

A better strategy

• Keep rooms flexible. You can stage a bedroom as an office or workout room while still maintaining the ability to use it as a bedroom.

• Preserve the essentials. A door, a closet, and an appropriate layout matter.

• Avoid permanent changes that eliminate bedroom function. Buyers want options.

Quick tip

Staging is your friend. You can show lifestyle without permanently changing the home’s most valuable features.

6) Installing Carpet Instead of Hard Flooring

Why it is a common buyer objection

Many buyers prefer hard flooring because it feels cleaner, looks modern, and is easier to maintain. Carpet can also hold odors and allergens. Even brand-new carpet can be a negative if buyers assume they will replace it soon after closing.

What tends to sell better

• LVP, laminate, or hardwood are often safer choices for broad appeal.

• Consistency matters. A cohesive flooring plan tends to photograph better and feels more updated.

• Use carpet strategically. If you keep carpet, bedrooms are usually the most acceptable place for it.

Quick tip

If budget is a concern, improving the main living areas with hard flooring can deliver more impact than replacing carpet everywhere.

7) Using Wallpaper or Very Trendy Paint Colors

Why it can backfire

Bold wallpaper and highly specific color trends often feel like a “project” to buyers. Even if the design is stylish, many buyers calculate the time and cost to undo it. In the Bakersfield real estate market, broad appeal typically wins, especially if you want strong competition and clean offers.

What to do instead

• Stick to neutral paint colors for listing.

• Add personality with decor, not permanent finishes. Decor is easy to change and helps buyers imagine their own style in the space.

• Use accent elements that are removable. Art, textiles, and lighting can create style without creating resistance.

Quick tip

If you love bold design, enjoy it in ways that are easy to swap before you sell.

How to Decide Which Upgrades Are Worth It in Bakersfield

Before you start any remodel, ask three practical questions:

1. Will this upgrade expand my buyer pool, or shrink it?
   Projects that reduce functional space often shrink demand.

2. Will the improvement show well online?
   Most buyers start their search online. Visual upgrades that photograph well usually have stronger impact.

3. Will the upgrade align with neighborhood comps and appraisals?
   Over-improving can cause appraisal issues if nearby sales do not support the new price.

A Bakersfield Realtor who knows your neighborhood can help you prioritize improvements based on current buyer expectations, recent sales, and what appraisers are likely to support.

Want Advice on What Will Pay Off for Your Home?

If you are considering renovations and want a plan that makes sense for your specific home and price range, reach out before you spend the money. For guidance tailored to the Bakersfield real estate market, call or text The McCarty Group today at 661-665-SOLD.