Avoid These Upgrades on New Construction Homes

Thinking about building a brand-new home? If you want to make smart decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses, knowing which upgrades are worth it (and which aren't) can save you thousands. As a real estate professional who has helped countless buyers and sellers in the Sarasota and Manatee County area, I've seen firsthand which features homeowners regret and which ones stand the test of time.

Let’s dive into the upgrades that aren’t worth your money—and some that definitely are!

1. Say Goodbye to Gray Interiors

Design trends come and go, and over the last year, we’ve seen a major shift. The light, airy grays that once dominated home interiors are quickly becoming outdated. Specifically, the cool-toned, beachy grays are falling out of favor. Instead, homeowners are gravitating toward warm earth tones like browns, taupes, and tans.

If you love gray, opt for a warmer shade with brown undertones. But if you want a timeless option, white cabinets are always in style. They provide a clean backdrop that allows you to incorporate color through accessories, backsplashes, and décor.

2. Skip the Expensive Backsplash

While a stunning backsplash can add personality to your kitchen, it’s not something you need to splurge on during the initial build. If you don’t find one you love at a reasonable price, you can always add it later. This is one of the easiest and most cost-effective upgrades to make after move-in.

For a timeless choice, subway tile remains a top option. It comes in various sizes, textures, and finishes, making it a versatile and stylish selection that won’t go out of fashion. If you’re designing a high-end kitchen, consider matching your backsplash with your countertop for a seamless, elegant look.

3. Rethink That Soaker Tub

A luxurious soaking tub may seem like a dream feature, but is it really worth the cost? Unless you take baths regularly, it’s an expensive addition that many homeowners rarely use. In fact, even in multi-million-dollar homes, soaker tubs are becoming less common. They take up valuable space and often feel awkwardly placed in primary bathrooms.

Similarly, oversized showers with multiple rain showerheads might look impressive, but they don’t necessarily add value. While a spacious shower is a nice feature, most buyers aren’t actively looking for a 10-foot-long shower with all the bells and whistles.

4. Don’t Overthink the Shower Floor

Builders will present a range of beautiful tile options for your shower floor, but don’t get too caught up in this decision. The shower floor is rarely a selling point for buyers, and as long as it coordinates with the rest of your bathroom, an affordable option will work just fine. Instead, prioritize functional features like a built-in niche or bench, which make shower storage much more convenient.

5. Skip the Whole-House Water Softener (For Now)

While a water softener can be beneficial in certain areas, it’s not something you need to install during the build. If you decide later that it’s necessary, you can add it after move-in at a potentially lower cost.

The same goes for security and smart home upgrades. Builders often charge a premium for these features, but with today’s technology, you can customize your smart home setup after closing—usually at a better price.

6. Flooring: The Most Important Decision

One of the biggest (and most expensive) decisions you’ll make in your new home is flooring. While white cabinets and subway tile are timeless, so are high-quality floors. Here are some key considerations:

• Avoid overly trendy tile – While tile is durable, it can quickly date your home. Large 24x24 tiles in neutral tones are a safer choice.

• Wood-look tile vs. luxury vinyl – Wood-look tile is a great alternative to hardwood in humid climates like Florida, but luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is rising in popularity. It’s stylish, affordable, and easier to replace than tile.

• Consistency matters – If your budget allows, opt for the same flooring throughout your home for a cohesive look. While bathrooms will naturally have tile, keeping bedrooms and living spaces uniform enhances resale value.

7. Invest in Custom Closets

One of the best upgrades to plan for—though not necessarily through the builder—is a custom closet for your primary bedroom. While it might cost $7,000 to $12,000 to have a professional install it, you can achieve a similar result for half the price with a DIY approach. Custom closets are a huge selling point and add practical storage that homeowners love.

Final Thoughts

Building a home is an exciting journey, but not all upgrades are worth the splurge. Prioritize features that add lasting value, and don’t be afraid to tackle smaller upgrades after move-in to save money.

Now, I’d love to hear from you! What trends do you love? Are you excited about the return of warm earth tones, or are you still a fan of cool grays? What upgrades do you think are worth the investment? Share your thoughts in the comments!

If you're buying or selling a home in Sarasota or Manatee County, my team and I are here to help. Give us a call today!