As a generation known for its unique tastes and preferences, millennials have a distinct approach when it comes to home upgrades. This generation is more practical and environmentally conscious, preferring to invest in upgrades that offer value for money, enhance sustainability, or improve their quality of life. At the same time, they are also cautious about overcapitalizing and avoid certain lavish upgrades that don’t provide a substantial return on investment. With that said, let’s delve into some of the home upgrades millennials typically won’t pay for.
1. Luxury Bathroom Upgrades
While a spa-like bathroom might sound appealing, most millennials aren’t willing to shell out the big bucks for luxury bathroom upgrades. They’re more inclined to functional, low-maintenance designs that are easy on the wallet. Think simple yet stylish vanities, water-saving showerheads, and energy-efficient lighting. The trend of minimalism in bathroom design, as noted in this report, aligns well with their preference for practicality over extravagance.
2. High-End Kitchen Appliances
While a six-burner stove or a double oven might be a chef’s dream, such high-end kitchen appliances don’t make it to the millennial’s wish list. They’d rather opt for energy-efficient appliances that are functional and budget-friendly. The primary focus is on sustainability and smart technology, not necessarily luxury.
3. Expensive Custom Cabinetry
Custom cabinetry can undoubtedly add a personal touch to a home. However, millennials typically prefer simpler, more affordable options. They prefer open shelving or modular cabinets that offer flexibility and maximize storage space. The emphasis is on functionality and efficiency rather than opulence.
4. Over-the-Top Outdoor Spaces
While millennials appreciate a nice outdoor space for entertaining and relaxation, they aren’t too keen on splurging on extravagant landscaping or high-end outdoor kitchens. A basic patio or deck with some comfortable seating and a modest grill is usually enough to meet their outdoor living needs.
5. Luxurious Wall Textures and Finishes
When it comes to wall textures and finishes, millennials often favor a more minimalist approach. Instead of expensive, luxurious finishes, they’re more likely to opt for simple, clean lines and neutral colors. This preference for minimalism not only saves money but also creates a versatile backdrop that allows for easy décor updates.
6. Expensive Home Automation Systems
Despite being a tech-savvy generation, millennials are selective about the smart home features they invest in. While they appreciate the convenience of smart thermostats or security cameras, they’re not likely to pay for expensive, full-blown home automation systems. Instead, they prefer individual smart devices that offer practical benefits and can be controlled via their smartphones.
7. Extravagant Home Theater Systems
A home theater might sound like a cool addition, but it’s not something most millennials are willing to splurge on. With the rise of streaming services and high-quality televisions, a simple setup with a decent sound system is more than enough for their entertainment needs. High-priced, extravagant home theater systems don’t provide enough value for the investment in their eyes.
8. Custom Built-In Bars
While a custom-built bar might be a dream for some, it’s not a priority for the millennial homeowner. They’d rather invest that money in areas of the home that offer more daily utility, like a home office or an extra bedroom. If they do want a space for entertaining, they’re more likely to opt for a simple bar cart or a modest wine rack.
9. Upscale Laundry Rooms
Laundry rooms are essential, but millennials don’t see a need to make them upscale. A basic laundry area with a washer and dryer, some storage space, and a folding area is usually sufficient. The goal is to have a functional, efficient space, rather than an extravagant one.
10. Expensive Carpeting and Flooring Options
When it comes to flooring, millennials often prefer durability and ease of maintenance over luxury. Expensive carpeting or high-end hardwoods are not top picks. Instead, they favor affordable, hard-wearing materials like laminate or vinyl that can stand up to daily use and are easy to clean.
11. Premium Window Treatments
High-priced, custom window treatments are another home upgrade that millennials often skip. They’re more likely to opt for simple, affordable options like blinds or curtains that provide privacy and light control. The focus is on functionality and cost-effectiveness rather than luxury.
12. High-End Light Fixtures
While lighting is an essential aspect of home design, millennials aren’t typically drawn to high-end light fixtures. They prefer simpler, more affordable lighting solutions that provide adequate illumination and contribute to the overall aesthetics of the space. Again, the key here is practicality and affordability.
13. Elaborate Home Security Systems
While home security is a priority for millennials, they’re not inclined to invest in elaborate, expensive systems. Instead, they prefer simple, effective solutions like smart doorbells or security cameras that they can monitor from their smartphones. As this study suggests, millennials value practicality, affordability, and convenience in their choice of home security systems.
In conclusion, while millennials value quality and functionality in their homes, they’re not inclined to spend excessively on luxury upgrades. Their preferences reflect their broader values of sustainability, practicality, and financial prudence. This trend is likely to continue as millennials make up an increasingly larger share of homeowners, as noted in this report.
