Real Estate Renovation Tips for Investors: Avoid Costly Mistakes

In this episode of the Wisdom Lifestyle Money Show, host Scott Dillingham chats with Nick Messina, a realtor from Team Goran at RE/MAX Care Realty in Windsor, Ontario, and Kass Dipasquale, founder and principal designer at Kass Design Studio in LaSalle, Ontario. The discussion dives into common pitfalls real estate investors face during renovations, such as personalizing spaces too much with unique colors or layouts that limit appeal. They emphasize keeping designs neutral and modern to attract broader buyers, while sharing strategies to maximize resale value without overspending. From avoiding emotional decisions to focusing on high-ROI updates like kitchens and bathrooms, the guests provide practical advice tailored for busy investors looking to flip or rent properties efficiently.

Drawing from real-world experiences, Nick and Kass highlight cost-saving tips, including using affordable materials like luxury vinyl plank flooring instead of hardwood, and simple refreshes such as repainting cabinets or adding backsplashes for big visual impact. They stress the importance of planning with visuals like mood boards on Canva or Pinterest, consulting professionals early, and calculating returns before starting work. For sellers, the duo recommends light fixtures, vanities, and staging with plants to create a welcoming yet depersonalized space. As of November 2025, with Windsor's real estate market showing steady demand amid local developments, these insights help investors navigate renovations to boost equity and avoid equity-draining errors.

The episode wraps with warnings about "ugly" renovations—like neon walls, mismatched styles, or bizarre features—that can deter buyers, and encourages building a team of experts for success. Whether you're a first-time investor or seasoned homeowner in Ontario, this conversation offers actionable steps to renovate smarter, with a nod to LendCity for mortgage options that can incorporate renovation costs to fuel growth.