Homeowners are always looking at what will offer them the biggest return on investment (ROI) and home remodeling and improvements always top the list. However, it’s not smart to jump into an elaborate or luxurious home improvement or remodel without seriously considering your personal needs first. Not every home remodel or home improvement will automatically give you a high ROI, so do your research and talk to a professional to get on the right track.

If you’re taking on a home remodel, addition or improvement project for the sole purpose of selling your home at a higher price think again. Many buyers of previously owned homes are unwilling to pay extra for many amenities, no matter how luxurious they are. Unless the work you’re doing is a necessary repair or something you want and will enjoy for many years before you sell, question the reasons for the remodel.

Instead, consider smaller, less expensive home improvements that can transform a home, reach more space and provide a fuller sense of accomplishment than remodeling one room. Extensively remodeling only one room could also cause that room to look out of place.

There are clever ways to get a whole home improvement that looks like a whole home remodel. Start with lighting: lighting can be the most forgotten aspect of a room, which is a shame because the right lighting can make a huge difference. Rather than rely on one old incandescent bulb, consider putting in track lighting or accent lighting to brighten a room and create your ideal mood. Don’t forget natural lighting, either; putting in a skylight or adding candles or a fireplace can make a room feel warm and welcoming. You can update your kitchen and bathrooms with cabinet refacing, which is much less expensive than cabinet replacement. New cabinets draw the eyes upwards, making any kitchen feel open. Replacing appliances is another great way to make a home feel newer, as appliances can date a home more than anything else. Not to mention, putting in energy efficient appliances (like EnergyStar) can make a kitchen more appealing to future buyers who imagine the savings. Finally, interior and exterior home painting makes a whole new look. A different color of paint can do more to make a home look new and updated than anything else and paint is one of the least expensive ways to improve the look of a home.

All this being said, there are still home remodeling and home improvement projects that have always offered a significant ROI. Bathroom and kitchen remodeling are two areas of the home that appeal to potential buyers and should always be kept updated and efficient. A fresh look in a new kitchen or bathroom will help potential buyers to see themselves in your home and might even make the house sell faster. If you know you’re going to sell soon and want to achieve that updated look without spending a fortune, go with small improvements everywhere. For the price of a luxurious kitchen remodel you can get a great new look for your kitchen, at least one bathroom, and probably still have enough left over to update the paint colors in the house. Of course it’s important to make sure your home is appealing to buyers, but don’t get caught in a home remodeling trap.