Personal lifestyle preferences may decide your priorities for upgrading a luxury home, but there is one consideration that wins out for most savvy homeowners: Will it add long-term value to my property?

In today’s blog, White Diamond is looking at some of the most popular upgrades for owners looking to increase resale value while improving their own quality of life.

Intelligent upgrades that could add significant value to homes in North Central West Virginia include:

Smart home technology

Smart home technology allows homeowners to control various aspects of their home, such as lighting, temperature, security, and entertainment systems, from their smartphone or other devices.

Home theater

A home theater can provide a high-quality entertainment experience and add a touch of luxury to a home.

Outdoor living space

A well-designed outdoor living space, such as a pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, or fireplace, can provide a luxurious space for relaxation and entertainment.

Spa-like bathroom

Transforming your bathroom into a spa-like retreat can be a luxurious upgrade that adds value to your home. Adding features like a soaking tub, heated floors, and high-end fixtures can create a luxurious ambiance and a relaxing retreat at home.

Wine cellar

A well-designed wine cellar can provide a luxurious space for wine storage and tasting.

Fitness facilities

Home gyms, indoor pools, and other fitness facilities can provide a convenient and luxurious way to stay in shape.

High-end finishes and materials

Nothing exudes luxury like high-end finishes and materials such as hardwood floors, marble or granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and top-of-the-line appliances.

Custom design and architecture

Luxury homes may have custom-designed architecture, unique features, and one-of-a-kind designs. Although such features are usually part of the original design, they can also be part of property additions, such as new outbuildings, custom pools, and landscape features.

Added privacy and security

Although privacy is often determined by location, luxury homes that feature high levels of privacy and security, with features such as gated entrances, security systems, and extensive landscaping, bring added value on the resale market.

Alternative energy sources

In rural areas, homeowners may have limited access to traditional power sources, and may seek out alternative energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines to reduce their reliance on the grid.

Back-up generators

Power outages in North Central West Virginia generally occur during large winter storms, when keeping warm is a major priority. Some homeowners may choose to install back-up generators to ensure they have access to power during emergencies.

Be smart: No upgrade is one-size-fits-all

Upgrades can add value and appeal to your luxury home, but it’s important to consider personal preferences, costs, and the specific features of your home before making any upgrades. Since spring is right around the corner, let’s take a closer look at outdoor pools to illustrate this point.

Some buyers specifically search for properties with outdoor pools. However, while this upgrade makes a home stand out, pool maintenance requirements combined with the high-cost of installation mean that this investment is not worth it for every homeowner. For example, a poorly maintained above-ground pool might be considered a negative for some home shoppers.

Of course, an in-ground pool can be a desirable feature for those looking for relaxation, entertainment, and a luxurious lifestyle. One option that’s becoming more popular is a fiberglass pool shell. There are several advantages to choosing a fiberglass pool:

Lower Maintenance

Fiberglass pools require less maintenance than traditional concrete or vinyl liner pools. The smooth, non-porous surface of the fiberglass makes it more difficult for algae and bacteria to grow, which reduces the need for harsh chemicals and frequent cleaning.

Durability

Fiberglass pools are highly durable and resistant to damage from the elements, such as frost heave, shifting soil, or extreme temperatures. They are also less likely to crack or leak compared to concrete or vinyl liner pools.

Quick Installation

Fiberglass pools can be installed more quickly than other types of pools because the shell is pre-fabricated and transported to the site. This means less disruption to your backyard and a faster turnaround time for enjoying your new pool.

Energy Efficiency

The non-porous surface of the fiberglass shell reduces water loss through absorption, which means less water evaporation and less need to refill the pool. This also reduces the amount of chemicals needed to maintain the water quality.

Comfortable and Safe

Fiberglass pools have a smooth, non-abrasive surface that is comfortable to walk on and gentle on skin. They are also slip-resistant, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.

Aesthetic Appeal

Fiberglass pools come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, which allows for a high degree of customization to suit your backyard and personal style. They can also be designed with built-in features such as tanning ledges, steps, and benches.

If you are looking for a provider to help select the right pool for your luxury property in North Central West Virginia, the top installer in terms of volume for our state is West Virginia Pool Construction. Company owner Steve Ramsey says that his extensive experience in the swimming pool industry ensures each job is done to the highest standard. Don’t wait too long to contact them, however. The peak season for pool installation in West Virginia is right around the corner.

In the meantime, be sure to check out White Diamond Realty’s latest Featured Property!

One appealing upgrade is a fiberglass pool installation like this one from West Virginia Pool Construction in Jane Lew, WV. Photo courtesy of West Virginia Pool Construction.