The 3 Things Real Estate Agents Say You’ll Regret in 5 Years

Remember The Macarena, that iconic song of the ‘90s and the super easy dance that went along with it? Remember how it was literally everywhere, at every function or party or get-together? I do — and I remember how five years later, that song grated on my nerves. I was so tired of it. I practically regretted learning the silly dance.

Well, I’m sad to say that these short-lived fads don’t just affect the music industry (or fashion — I’m looking at you, ultra-low rise jeans…), but they can also affect homeownership. Something you think is an absolutely wonderful idea may, in five years time, be a thorn in the side of your home. Take real estate agents’ advice and stay away from these things you might regret in a few years.

A while back, I got really into washi tape. I saw people decorating entire walls with intricate patterns and responded with an absolute need to do the same. But not even a year later, the budget washi tape I got was peeling off everything I put it on. My experience is a great example of something Yawar Charlie, director of the estates division at Compass’ Aaron Kirman Group, says not to do: buy great looking low-quality materials.

“I always encourage clients to avoid certain materials that aesthetically might look beautiful, but in the long term suffer when it comes to wear and tear,” Charlie says. “For example, I love Carrara marble. It looks beautiful, expensive, and gorgeous. However, one glass of red wine spilled on an unsealed portion of Carrera marble will ruin it forever and there’s not one thing you can do about it! You’re much better off with engineered material that gives you a marble vibe that will last for a long time.”

For most homeowners, Charlie says, renovations only happen around once a decade. So be sure you’re getting materials that will last for the long-haul.

Brick walls can be finicky — so if you’re going to cover them up, you might want to prepare for the worst. Jenny Usaj, owner of Usaj Realty, suggests leaving brick in its natural form.

“Be sure you love the color if you choose to paint any brick in the interior or exterior of the home, since once it is painted, there is no going back to the original color,” she says.

Plus, you’ll then be one of the people on the receiving end of comments like “why would anyone paint over brick?!”

There’s something about that rustic farmhouse chic look that people continue to love these days. Although interior barn doors may be the door fad of the moment, they’re really not the best or most practical use of your doorway. Beware, Usaj says.

“Barn doors are so charming and add a lot of character, but are pretty poor for acoustic noise reduction,” she says. “Depending on where you install it, you could end up regretting it later on.”

A word to the wise? Avoid barn door bathrooms or bedrooms. Keep that noise contained where it belongs.