The Bank of Canada has largely kept to the sidelines as it tries to get a sense of how U.S. tariffs will impact the economy — and some economists think it might just stay there. After a quarter-point cut in March, the central bank held its benchmark interest rate steady at 2.75 per cent in…
Your home once checked all the boxes. But now, something’s changed. Maybe you’ve outgrown the space. Maybe it’s just too much to maintain. Or maybe your needs have simply evolved. That raises a big question: should you renovate your current home, or is it time to move on? The answer isn’t the same for everyone. But weighing the right factors can help you avoid costly regrets and make a move or a makeover that fits your future. Let’s break it down. 1. Renovations Can Cost More and Take Longer Than You Expect On paper, renovating might seem cheaper than buying a new home. But once you start opening walls or chasing permits, costs can escalate quickly. Surprise expenses, delays, and expanding project scopes are common. What starts as a simple kitchen update can turn into six months of living in a construction zone with a budget that’s gone up by 30 percent. Even with upgrades, you’re still limited by things like layout, lot size, or local bylaws. New finishes won’t fix structural constraints. Renovating makes sense if you love your location and the home has good bones. But if you’re trying to squeeze a major lifestyle change into a space that can’t support it, moving may be the better choice. 2. Relocating Lets You Reset the Layout, Location, and Lifestyle Buying a new home gives you more than just different square footage. It can also solve problems that a renovation can’t. Maybe you need a home office and a guest room. Or a bigger backyard. Or a shorter commute. Relocating gives you the chance to find a property that already meets those needs instead of trying to force them into your current home. It’s also a chance to move into a newer build with modern features, better energy efficiency, or access to a preferred school district. You get a fresh start without the hassle of construction. Selling and buying can also unlock the equity in your home, giving you more flexibility in how you fund your next move. 3. Renovations Don’t Always Boost Resale Value Not every renovation will increase your home’s market value. While kitchens and bathrooms often pay off, projects like finishing a basement or adding a sunroom might not return what you put in. If your upgrades make your home the most expensive one in the neighborhood, it could actually hurt your resale potential down the line. Ask yourself if you’re renovating to improve your quality of life or just trying to justify staying put. If your goal is long-term comfort, the investment might make sense. But if you’re spending big to patch short-term frustrations, moving could be the smarter long-term play. 4. Moving Comes with Costs, but It Might Be Simpler Yes, there are expenses involved in relocating. Realtor commissions, closing fees, land transfer taxes, and the cost of the move all add up. But unlike a renovation, moving comes with a clear timeline and a defined outcome. You know what you’re buying, when you’ll get it, and what it will cost. That kind of certainty can make a big difference, especially if you’re juggling kids, remote work, or planning for retirement. Another bonus: many newer homes need fewer immediate fixes. You may not have to lift a hammer for years after moving in. Final Word If your home no longer suits your needs, you have two solid options—but very different outcomes. Choose to renovate if you love your neighbourhood, your home has real potential, and you’re ready for the temporary disruption. Consider relocating if you want a better fit, a cleaner slate, or a stronger financial position. Either way, speak with a mortgage advisor and a realtor before making a final decision. They can help you understand your options, crunch the numbers, and figure out what makes the most sense for your situation. With the right guidance, your next move can do more than just solve today’s problems. It can help shape the life you want moving forward.
The Western Family Summer Guide is here to make summer fun and easy! Whether you’re having a BBQ, going on a picnic or road trip, planning a backyard dinner, or throwing an ice cream party, we’ve got everything you need to make this summer the best one yet. Summer temperatures may be heating things up in Metro Vancouver, but a trip to a nearby water slide park can help you stay cool throughout the season. Visiting the water slides is fun for the whole family. There are thrilling water features, relaxing lazy rivers, hot tubs, and more. And let’s not forget the delicious concession stand serving nostalgic favourite treats and eats. There are several waterparks just a short drive away that are ready to help you make a splash. So if you’re ready to get wet and wild, here are all the water slide parks near Metro Vancouver to visit this summer. Big Splash Water Park Big Splash water park What: Big Splash Water Slide Park in Tsawwassen has reopened for the summer season. The seven-acre resort-style park features 13 body and tube slides, a kids’ zone, hot tubs, and more to help you beat the heat. Big Splash’s highlight is the Boomerango, an exhilarating tube slide with a six-story drop. According to the park, it’s the only one of its kind in Western Canada. When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting Where: 4775 Nulelum Way, Tsawwassen Admission: $41.99 for an all-day pass and $32.99 for a twilight pass, which begins at 3 p.m.. Children three and under are free with a paying adult. Purchase online Cultus Lake Waterpark Cultus Lake Waterpark/Facebook What: Adventurous sliders will want to slap on the waterproof sunscreen and enjoy the Valley of Fear or the Freefall Tower. Families and young ones can also experience Tots’ Castle, Pirates Cove, and Western Canada’s biggest water slide, the Colossal Canyon family raft ride! After you’ve built up an appetite, grab some food from the in-park vendors, including the refreshing pineapple Dole Whip soft serve. Then relax at one of the 150+ shade and shelter picnic areas. When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 Time: Various times Where: Cultus Lake Waterpark – 4150 Columbia Valley Hwy., Cultus Lake Cost: Various, purchase online Bridal Falls Waterpark Bridal Falls Waterpark/Facebook What: Bridal Falls Waterpark is helping visitors get wet and wild daily until Monday, Sept. 1. Just a 90-minute drive from Vancouver, the popular Fraser Valley destination is designed for families, so young water lovers will have just as much fun as adults. When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where: 53790 Popkum Rd. S., Rosedale Cost: $10 per person; children two and under are free. Purchase online Harrison Lake Inflatable Water Park Harrison Watersports What: Harrison Watersports’ huge attraction not only has an epic floating obstacle course/playground on the lake, but you can also rent BBQ boats and Sea-Doos for the ultimate lake trip. In 2022, a “Wipeout Style” obstacle course was added, with swings, teeter-totters, hamster balls, monkey bars, and the popular Blob. You can also rent a bumper boat, which is complete with water guns that squirt from 10 ft. away to let you soak your friends. When: Open daily from June 21 until Aug. 31, 2025 Where: 100 Esplanade Ave., Harrison Hot Springs Tickets: Available online from $39.99. Book online
Recent legal developments could put the world’s tallest Passive House, planned for Vancouver, in doubt. Daily Hive Urbanized first reported on the development in 2020, when the Vancouver City Council approved a rezoning application by Henson Developments for 1059-1075 Nelson Ave. The project was given the name “Curv” and was planned to be a 60-storey mixed-use green building. The developer behind it is the Brivia Group, based in Montreal. The developer is also referred to as Brivia Family Investments in court documents. Information found in those court documents available on the province’s court registry offers more details behind the recent legal developments that could impact the future of Curv. The BC Supreme Court filings include a petition to the court and notice of application from the Royal Bank of Canada. According to the Notice of Application, the debtors are controlled by the Brivia Group, with RBC serving as the administrative agent, syndication agent, and lead arranger. RBC is now demanding payment of $90 million thanks to a loan that matured on April 30, 2025. The debtors were required to pay an extension fee of $225,000 to the lenders to extend the payment deadline to July 31, 2025; however, the lenders never received the extension fee, leading to an event of default. As of July 10 of this year, the total amount that the debtors owe is just over $91 million. The receivership application will be heard by the BC Supreme Court on July 25, 2025. The Vancouver Passive House was to be built on the same city block as the newly completed Butterfly tower. It would’ve become the fourth-tallest building in Vancouver at 586 feet, slightly taller than the Butterfly, which Revery Architecture says is 556 feet. When City Council initially approved Curv’s rezoning in June 2020, the 60-storey tower was to include 102 social housing units within the lower levels, 50 secured purpose-built market rental units within the middle levels, and 328 strata market ownership condominium homes within the upper levels. City Council later approved proposed revisions, including a cash payment by the developer of $55 million to the City to remove the on-site obligation of 102 social housing units in the tower’s lower floors. Despite all the planning, prior to the legal proceedings, the developer hadn’t yet broken ground on the project. We’ve contacted the Brivia Group for comment.
The Western Family Summer Guide is here to make summer fun and easy! Whether you’re having a BBQ, going on a picnic or road trip, planning a backyard dinner, or throwing an ice cream party, we’ve got everything you need to make this summer the best one yet. Turns out, one of the world’s best beaches isn’t in the tropics, it’s right here in B.C. Chesterman Beach in Tofino just landed at #16 on Big 7 Travel’s freshly released list of the 50 Best Beaches in the World for 2025, and it was the only Canadian beach to earn a spot. EB Adventure Photography/Shutterstock This isn’t Chesterman’s first time in the spotlight. It’s been recognized in one of our recent pieces on dog‑friendly summer getaways and has earned global praise in Lonely Planet. While it’s not Blue Flag certified (a designation awarded to beaches meeting strict environmental and safety standards), it continues to attract international praise. With over 2.7 kilometres of white sand connecting North and South Chesterman, the beach is a dream for surfers, dog walkers, storm watchers, and anyone in search of salt air and solitude. SL-Photography/Shutterstock At low tide, a natural sandspit known as a tombolo reveals itself, linking the shore to nearby Frank Island, a local favourite for scenic strolls (though visitors should note the island itself is privately owned). According to the City of Tofino’s website, Chesterman is easy to access by foot or bike via the Multi-Use Path (MUP), or by car, with pay parking and facilities available at Lynn Road (North) and Chesterman Beach Road (South). Public washrooms, showers, and even designated beach fire zones (subject to seasonal restrictions) make it a year-round crowd-pleaser. Big 7 Travel’s annual beach ranking is based on past media acclaim, social media buzz, and editorial insight. This year’s top picks span far beyond Canada’s coastline, from secluded island coves to tropical showstoppers. Here’s a look at the 2025 top five: 1. Whitehaven Beach, Australia Tanya Puntti/Shutterstock Situated on Whitsunday Island in Queensland, this 7 km strip is famous for its brilliant-white sand made of over 98 per cent pure silica, which stays cool even under the hot sun, part of a protected national park within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. 2. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles ByDroneVideos/Shutterstock Sometimes called the world’s most photographed beach, this stunning coastline on La Digue features dramatic granite boulders, powder-white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise water, protected by coral reefs. Access is via the L’Union Estate, which charges a nominal fee. 3. Ksamil Beach, Albania S.Tatiana/Shutterstock Dubbed the “Maldives of Europe,” Ksamil Beach is celebrated for its calm, crystal-clear waters and small island islets, making it ideal for a relaxing swim or an espresso by the sea. It’s one of the fastest-rising tourism gems on the Albanian Riviera, drawing global attention. 4. Reethi Beach, Maldives Uryutova Elena/Shutterstock Accessible only via seaplane or speedboat, this private island resort in Baa Atoll is known for its coral reefs, overwater villas, and commitment to sustainability. Reethi Beach Resort is located in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is recognized for its efforts in sustainable tourism. 5. Plage de Notre Dame, France D.Bond/Shutterstock Tucked away on Porquerolles Island off the southern French coast, this secluded Mediterranean beach features calm, clear water and a gentle, pine-lined shoreline, ideal for a tranquil day in nature, away from tourist crowds. Have you visited Chesterman Beach in Tofino? Let us know in the comments. Want to stay on top of all things Vancouver? Follow us on X
Short-term moves can be stressful, and making a temporary space feel like home is important. But before you start knocking out walls and upgrading bathrooms, it’s wise to consider your return on investment—especially if you’re going to be reselling. “The decision to make improvements to a home intended for short-term use should be based on time, money, and immediate gratification,” says Dot Frank, a realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Alliance Group. “Since your stay is limited, limit improvements to those you can tackle in short order. Personally, if more than 10% of my stay is spent renovating, it would be a no-go.” Read on for expert tips on the kinds of investments and upgrades to a temporary space that make sense in the long term. Credit: Jay Wilde Smart Investments for Short-Term Upgrades If you’re having trouble deciding what to invest in for your temporary home, consider your budget and timeline first. “Some upgrades can be very cost effective and can be done quickly, while others can leave you gasping for air and asking yourself ‘are we there yet?” says Devin Juarez, a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elite. “Analyzing your budget and how long the project will take will help you prioritize your projects.” Next, decide whether the project you’re considering is a want or a need. “A beautiful bathroom might be a great improvement and make your day great when unwinding at the end of a long day, but if your house needs a new roof due to leaks or a new front porch because you’re afraid you might fall through the floor with every step you take, then it might make more sense to put off the new bathroom,” Juarez says. Finally, consider the return on investment. If you’re only living in a home for a short time, it doesn’t make sense to sink tons of cash into an upgrade unless you can make the money back when you go to sell. “Some upgrades such as new windows, new front door, new heater, or even an upgraded water heater to provide more hot water might be aesthetically pleasing, provide more efficiency with utilities, or an added comfort, but their cost does not provide a large return when selling the property,” Juarez says. “There are other investments in your home that could provide a better return with the same investment.” Frank says the ideal investment is a cost-effective improvement you’ll be able to appreciate while you reside in the residence, that also boosts your resale value. “Remember the end game is to resell, so make sure to keep it neutral and appealing to prospective buyers,” she says. “Remember the end game is to resell, so make sure to keep it neutral and appealing to prospective buyers.” — Dot Frank Here are a few projects the experts say are often good investments. 1. Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels Kitchens and bathrooms that have been remodeled or updated almost always yield the highest return on investments. “Many buyers go straight to the kitchen when searching for a new home. And many home seekers are paying more attention to the details in the bathroom, as many want that spa-like feel when entering the bathroom,” Juarez says. “We gather around the kitchen when having reunions or unwinding at the end of the day or at the beginning of our days to get the morning boost. An updated kitchen and bathroom can make all the difference between selling your home or it receiving any attention at all.” As you make your updates, try to keep them neutral and pleasing for the widest range of buyers. “Avoid trends that are permanent. You don’t want a permanent trend like your kitchen cabinets. That’s permanent,” says Tammy Doss, an agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central. Doss also cautions against making cheap upgrades like painting countertops, which won’t last long. Don’t have the time or budget for a major overhaul? Consider a small update. “Kitchens and bathrooms might be the heart of the home, but they can also feel daunting to renovate,” says Marjorie Adam, broker and owner at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Pathways. “The good news is that minor upgrades like swapping out cabinet hardware, replacing faucets, and updating light fixtures can be done on a budget and deliver impressive results. These changes elevate the look of the space without requiring a major remodel.” 2. Curb Appeal Updates Doss says curb appeal is one of the best ways to get eyes on your property when you go to sell. “I always tell my buyers, it’s like going on a dating app,” Doss says. “You swipe left or you swipe right. If you see a house that is cluttered with dirty dishes in the sink and it’s just a wreck, you’re going to swipe left. You’re not going to date that house.” Doss says a well-manicured lawn and facade on your home will draw the most buyers and showings. “Once they’re in the door, they can decide if they want a second date or making an offer,” she says. “They want to see the lawn has been taken care of—no oversized shrub,” Doss says. “They want to make sure the gutters have been taken care of, the porch has been swept off.” If you want to go above and beyond, try adding to your beds. New buyers will be drawn to
When extreme heat hits, it’s tempting to crank the air conditioning as low as it will go. But while that might offer short-term relief, it can lead to sky-high energy bills and put unnecessary strain on your cooling system. So, what temperature should you set your thermostat to during a heat wave? We spoke with industry experts and rounded up smart strategies to help you stay safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient when temperatures soar. What to Set Your Thermostat to During a Heat Wave According to energy experts and the U.S. Department of Energy, the sweet spot is 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and need cooling. If you can, bump it up to 82°F when you’re sleeping and 85°F when you’re away. These settings help reduce the load on your AC, which can prevent breakdowns during critical times, and keep energy bills from skyrocketing. When to Adjust Your Thermostat Lower “Seventy-eight degrees creates the optimal balance between comfort and efficiency. Seventy-eight degrees may be warm for many people, but it is the standard recommendation to stay comfortable and be efficient during the summer months,” says Lane Dixon, Vice President of Operations at Aire Serv. If you have vulnerable household members, like infants, older adults, or pets, you may need to keep the thermostat slightly cooler. In these cases, 76°F may offer a more comfortable balance between safety and savings. It’s also helpful to use smart thermostats that learn your preferences and adjust automatically, especially during peak demand times. Related What to Do if Your AC Can’t Keep Up Keeping your air conditioner running smoothly during extreme heat isn’t just about comfort—it can help you avoid breakdowns and surprise repair bills. John McGaughey, vice president of sales at AUX AIR USA, shares several practical ways homeowners can help their cooling systems perform at their best this summer. Replace Your Air Filter Regularly “A dirty filter is one of the most common reasons systems underperform,” McGaughey explains. He advises checking the filter every month during heavy use and replacing it as needed (usually every one to three months.) Keep the Sunlight Out Direct sun exposure, especially on south- and west-facing windows, can dramatically increase indoor temperatures. To prevent excess sun from streaming through windows, consider adding blackout or dark-colored curtains and blinds. Time Your Appliance Use Wisely Large household appliances, like ovens, stovetops, and dryers, can heat up your living space fast. Use these in the early mornings or evenings when outdoor temperatures are lower. Use Fans to Improve Comfort Ceiling or box fans don’t cool the air, but they can help you feel cooler by circulating air across your skin and aiding in evaporation. Check Your Outdoor AC Unit The outdoor unit expels the heat your AC system pulls from inside. Keeping the area clear and occasionally rinsing the unit with a hose (while it’s off) can go a long way in improving efficiency. If none of these steps help, it may be time to call in an HVAC technician, especially if you hear unusual noises, smell musty odors, or see ice buildup on your system. DIY AC Fixes Before you call in the pros, try these expert-backed maintenance tips that can improve your air conditioner’s performance—and might even help you avoid a costly repair visit, according to JustAnswer HVAC Expert Randy Huckstadt. Rinse your condenser coil. The HVAC expert first addresses rinsing your condenser coil with fresh water. “Dirty condensers do not allow you to reject the heat from inside the house that the refrigerant absorbed in the evaporator,” he explains. Rinse your evaporator coil. If you can safely access it, he recommends rinsing the evaporator coil as well. He says that you cannot absorb the heat in the house if your coil is dirty. Replace your air filter. Plugged air filters prevent quality airflow, which reduces the capacity of the AC system. Swapping in a clean filter is one of the easiest ways to keep your system working properly. And if your condenser fan suddenly stops working, don’t panic—Huckstadt offers a clever temporary fix. He says you can use a small shower sprinkler to spray the condenser until a repair tech arrives. Water will take the place of a failed condenser fan.
British Columbia is tied for the largest annual decline in apartment rents in all of Canada, but Metro Vancouver renters may not be seeing the savings when it’s time to pay. According to the latest Rentals.ca and Urbanation report, which looks at numbers from June 2025, the country’s average asking rent for all residential properties declined 2.7 per cent year-over-year. It was the ninth consecutive month of annual rent drops. B.C. and Alberta experienced the biggest annual decline in apartment rents at 3.1 per cent. However, four of the top five most expensive cities to rent in the top Canadian markets list remain in the Metro Vancouver area. Alen Szylowiec/Shutterstock “Asking rents for purpose-built and condo rental apartments declined the most over the past year in B.C. and Alberta, each decreasing by 3.1 per cent, to an average of $2,472 and $1,741, respectively,” said Rentals.ca in its report. “Ontario and B.C. were the only provinces to record a two-year decrease in apartment rents, declining 3.6 per cent and 3.1 per cent, respectively.” According to Rentals.ca, North Vancouver is the most expensive municipality in Canada to rent for the fourth consecutive month, with the average asking rent for a one-bedroom rental reaching $2,602 per month and a two-bedroom rental coming in at $3,567 per month. Vancouver, Coquitlam, Burnaby, and Toronto round out the other five most expensive places to rent in the country. Rentals.ca The report also shows that among Canada’s six largest cities, Vancouver experienced the second-largest annual decline in apartment rents in June, dropping seven per cent. However, the asking rent for a one-bedroom is $2,529 per month, and for a two-bedroom, it is $3,388 per month. “Despite the dip in rents during the past year, average asking rents in Canada remained 4.1 per cent higher than the level from two years earlier ($2,042) and 11.9 per cent higher than the level from three years earlier ($1,899),” added Rentals.ca Volodymyr Kyrylyuk/Shutterstock Several other B.C. cities also cracked the 50 priciest Canadian markets to rent, including New Westminster at number 17, Victoria at number 19, Langley at number 21, Surrey at number 26, and Nanaimo at number 31. Average asking rents in Canada remain 5.7 per cent higher than two years ago and 12.6 per cent higher than three years ago. Are you a renter who’s seeing a drop in the asking rent price? Are you experiencing challenges finding a rental within your budget? Let us know in the comments or get in touch at [email protected] .
Whether you live in an area prone to tornadoes, wildfires, or earthquakes, having an emergency preparedness plan in place can make all the difference in keeping your family, including your pets, safe. We spoke with pet safety experts to learn exactly what you can—and should—do for different types of natural disasters and what you should keep on hand in case of emergency. Roxana Petzold is the pet services senior program manager at the American Red Cross. Susan Anderson is the senior director of disaster response at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). 1. Put Together an Emergency Kit Pack a bag to grab quickly if you have to evacuate or shelter. Include enough pet supplies for 7–10 days, including food, water, medications, and bowls. Add a photo of you and your pet in case you get separated. Check expiration dates and update the kit twice a year. 2. Create a Plan There are many circumstances you can’t control, but being prepared is one you can. Build a plan that outlines what you’ll do if an emergency were to occur. Know what kind of natural disasters are most likely to occur in your area and create a plan for each one. Draft additional plans for scenarios like flooding, power or water outages, and house fires. To assist you, use a printable checklist found on aspca.org , then practice your family’s emergency plan. “Everyone should have an assigned role,” says Roxana Petzold, pet services senior program manager at the American Red Cross. “Who’s grabbing which bag? Who’s got the dog?” 3. Download a Pet First Aid App The American Red Cross Pet First Aid app is a great resource for emergencies, including step-by-step instructions for common health and safety issues. You can also connect your vet info and find emergency hospitals and pet-friendly hotels. Keep this on your phone and explore the different resources, so if there is an emergency, you can more easily navigate it. 4. Know What to Do If There’s a Fire If there’s a wildfire and you need to evacuate, your pets should always go with you. That means creating a plan with potential places to shelter that will take pets. Since you can’t guarantee all evacuation sites will accept animals, research this now. Never let your pet near damaged property after a fire, and if air quality is poor, limit time outside. If the fire is in your house, however, Susan Anderson, ASPCA senior director of disaster response, says, “Don’t go back in to grab your pet, as difficult as this is.” Consider adding a pet alert decal to one of your windows so first responders know there are pets in your home. 5. Practice Taking Shelter for Tornadoes and Large Storms If you need to take cover based on weather alerts and warnings, your pet does too. Go to the lowest level of your home in a room with no windows. After the storm, “Your pet might experience stress, fear, and disorientation. Familiar scents and landmarks might have changed,” Petzold says. Keep pets away from damaged electrical wires and trees, and look for debris on the ground that could be a hazard. Also, be aware that wildlife could have taken shelter in your home. 6. Prepare for a Hurricane or Flooding If local officials issue evacuation orders, follow the same protocol as for a fire. “Never tether pets to a pole or a tree or anything that would prevent them from getting to a safe area,” Anderson says. If you can’t evacuate and there’s a risk of flooding, go to the highest level of your house. After a hurricane or flood, don’t let your pets drink standing water, as it can be contaminated. 7. Be Aware of What to Do If There’s an Earthquake Unlike other natural disasters, earthquakes often happen without warning. If you live in an area where they might occur, it’s important to have large furniture anchored to walls to protect people and animals from falling objects. For any disaster, but especially for earthquakes, identify places in your home where your pet might hide when scared. Additionally, be sure your pets are microchipped and the info is up-to-date. 8. Be Cautious in Extreme Temperatures “If you don’t want to be outside, your pet shouldn’t be either,” Anderson says. In the cold, put jackets on small or short-haired pets as they have less natural protection. In the heat, test walking surfaces with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Treat an overheated pet with cooling packs or cold water on the head or armpits.
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make, and many homeowners are unknowingly leaving money on the table. A new survey from Zillow, conducted by The Harris Poll, revealed five major misconceptions that can cost sellers thousands of dollars. From over-investing in renovations to skipping key agent interviews, these are mistakes even experienced homeowners make. Here’s what to avoid and how to maximize your home’s value and get ahead in today’s competitive market. 1. Spending Too Much on the Wrong Renovations While it’s tempting to think a pricey kitchen remodel or a full addition will boost your home’s value, that’s not always the case. According to the survey, nearly one-quarter of homeowners (23%) believe building an addition offers the best return on investment. In reality, lower-cost upgrades, like a fresh coat of paint or improved landscaping, have a bigger impact on your bottom line. Focus on strategic updates that improve first impressions, both online and in person. Think fresh paint, staging, and curb appeal. 2. Underestimating the Power of “Screen Appeal” It’s not just about curb appeal anymore. Buyers often make their decision based on online photos and virtual tours before they ever step inside. Still, 40% of sellers think curb appeal matters most. But Zillow found that listings with features like 3D Home tours and high-resolution images sell for 2% more than similar listings without them. 3. Skipping Key Steps When Hiring an Agent Many homeowners believe they can skip the legwork when choosing a real estate agent, but Zillow experts warn against it. One in four homeowners don’t read online reviews, research sales history, or interview more than one agent. Treat hiring a real estate agent like a job interview. Ask about their local experience, listing strategy, and marketing tools, and check their track record. Related 4. Highlighting Wrong Features in Listings 45% of sellers think open floor plans boost value, but according to Zillow data, open layouts sell for 0.2% less than expected. On the flip side, listings that mention natural materials, like soapstone countertops or white oak flooring, can sell for up to 3.5% more. Work with your agent to highlight what today’s buyers are looking for. 5. Misunderstanding Seller Disclosure Rules Here’s a costly one: More than half of sellers think it’s okay to hide serious issues like water damage, pests, or asbestos to get a quicker sale. But failing to disclose known problems can lead to legal trouble and lost trust. Always disclose issues honestly and lean on your agent to help navigate what’s required in your state. What Sellers Get Right While some misconceptions remain, homeowners are making smart moves in key areas. 70% understand the value of listing across all major real estate platforms, including Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com. Only 8% believe in private, limited listings, correctly recognizing that casting a wider net brings better offers. Sellers who don’t list on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) make thousands less on average.