8 home improvements that cost a fortune and didn’t last

Not every upgrade pays off long-term. Some projects sounded smart at the time but ended up being costly mistakes. These are the improvements many homeowners regret.

Sunken Living Rooms

They looked stylish in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Lowered living areas gave homes a dramatic feel, but they quickly fell out of fashion. They also created tripping hazards and made furniture harder to arrange. Many homeowners later spent thousands raising the floors back up.

Whirlpool Tubs

They felt like luxury at the time.

Big jetted tubs were installed in master baths, but they used a ton of water, were hard to clean, and broke easily. Few people actually used them, and most ended up being ripped out during remodels.

Popcorn Ceilings

They were cheap to apply but costly to remove.

Popcorn texture was popular for covering imperfections, but it quickly looked dated. Worse, many contained asbestos, making removal expensive and dangerous. Homeowners who followed the trend often paid the price later.

Built-In Entertainment Centers

Custom cabinets for big box TVs were common.

The problem? Technology changed, and those built-ins no longer fit modern flat screens. What once looked impressive quickly turned into wasted space. Many people spent thousands only to have to rip them out later.

Indoor Hot Tubs

Some homeowners installed hot tubs inside.

It seemed glamorous, but moisture problems quickly set in. Mold, mildew, and structural damage followed, leaving many regretting the decision. Outdoor models proved far more practical in the long run.

Glass Block Showers

They promised privacy and light.

But glass blocks were expensive to install and even harder to clean. They also dated a bathroom instantly once the trend faded. Most homeowners now opt for clear or frosted glass enclosures instead.

Wall-to-Wall Mirrors

They were trendy in the ‘80s.

Whole mirrored walls made spaces feel larger but became fingerprint magnets. They also broke easily and screamed “dated” within a decade. The cost of installation was rarely worth it.

Fancy Outdoor Kitchens

Many homeowners splurged on fully equipped outdoor kitchens.

But unless they entertained constantly, the space went unused. Appliances wore down faster in the weather, and repairs were costly. A simple grill setup would’ve been more practical and affordable.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.