Does Removing the Popcorn Texture From Your Ceilings Increase Home Value?
Dusty Rhodes • July 20, 2020
Everyone loves popcorn at the movies—but seeing that fluffy texture on a ceiling? Not so much.
The stippled texture known as the popcorn ceiling was popular from the 1950s through the 1980s, especially in bedrooms. Sometimes likened to cottage cheese, the bumps of this finish supposedly dampened sound, but also made it easier for builders to hide imperfections.
Nowadays, it can make selling your house more difficult, depending on the market and price range, said Timothy Schutte, a top performing real estate agent in Des Moines, Iowa and expert in single-family homes.
“It’s a vintage and aged style,” said Schutte.
It is noticed fairly quickly upon opening the door and walking in. It may not be within the first three minutes, but you see it.
Does removing a popcorn ceiling increase your home’s value? Before you roll up your sleeves and grab the putty knife and protective goggles, you should weigh whether the cost of removal is worth it given the time, cost, and potential health risk.
The pros and cons of popcorn
Not everyone is sour on popcorn ceilings. The home improvement and repair site DoItYourself.com, launched in 1995, said that this textured, spray-on finish is an inexpensive way to hide flaws in a ceiling, including leaks, cracks, damage, and just poor workmanship. They’re cheap and easy to install, and because of their acoustic properties, popcorn ceilings can cut down on sound in multi-story houses and high-traffic areas such as entryways and hallways.
But popcorn ceilings don’t handle moisture well, according to Fixr.com, an online directory of service professionals founded in 2008. In a bathroom or kitchen, both of which have a fair amount of moisture, the texture of a popcorn ceiling can loosen and eventually come down.
The biggest aesthetic drawback of a popcorn ceiling is that it tends to collect dust, dirt, and cobwebs. Because of its “crater-like surfaces,” it also casts harsh shadows, making rooms appear smaller.
“Popcorn [texture] is very hard to clean and to keep clean,” Schutte said. “It attracts dust and creates shadows. Whenever you take it off, it makes a room feel much more vibrant.”
What about asbestos concerns?
Deciding to remove a popcorn ceiling is tricky, however, because of the possibility of asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral fiber occurring in rock and soil that, if inhaled, can cause diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
Asbestos was used for decades in a variety of building construction materials, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), but has been banned in various products from 1973 through 1990.
Even so, if your home was built before the late 1980s, the spray-on texture used to create your popcorn ceiling may have contained asbestos.
Although it’s impossible to tell whether any material contains asbestos just by sight, scraping off a portion to be tested can do more harm than good, releasing asbestos fibers through dust.
“Material that is in good condition and will not be disturbed (by remodeling, for example) should be left alone,” the EPA recommends.
If your popcorn ceiling is already damaged and you’re concerned about asbestos, the EPA advises consulting with a trained asbestos professional, who can test for the substance and work with you on removing it. (The cost of such testing varies widely by square foot, although hazardous materials contractors do offer free estimates).
You also can spray water onto a small portion of the area and remove a sample without scraping. The accredited testing company EMSL Analytical Inc. of Cinnaminson, New Jersey, which has more than 45 locations throughout the United States and Canada, will test consumers’ samples, with lab fees starting around $130 for a one-week turnaround time.
The newer type of popcorn texture is made with pieces of polystyrene or Styrofoam, so there’s no worry of asbestos with those, even if there’s flaking.
Popcorn ceiling removal is costly—and messy
Removing a popcorn ceiling can be expensive and leave fine white dust everywhere. Although you can do this yourself, especially if the materials are free of asbestos, be prepared for a lot of labor.
First, you’ll have to remove the furnishings or move them to the center of the space and cover them and the floor with a drop cloth and plastic sheeting. Then spray a small section (about 10 square feet) of ceiling with warm water, let that sit for about 20 minutes, and scrape off what comes loose.
The experts recommend applying drywall compound to any problem areas with a drywall knife, skimming smoothly, then priming and painting the ceiling.
Expect to pay about $30 to $200 in materials to do this yourself, or about $1 to $3 per square foot for labor and materials if you hire a professional. The average homeowner spends about $1,675 nationwide.
If your ceiling tests positive for asbestos, expect to pay $3 to $7 per square foot, or up to $2,750 in additional fees, depending on the size of the space and the extent of the problem.
Skim coating the ceiling with drywall compound and painting it gives this a smooth “executive feel,” although knockdown texture, applied with a texture sprayer, provides visual interest and camouflages imperfections without popcorn’s dated look.
The problem is, homeowners in the midst of preparing a house for sale often don’t have the inclination to tackle this project because of the debris.
Someone flipping a house, who isn’t living there while the work is underway, is more likely to do it, Schutte said.
“With a homeowner in the property, we talk about [removing] the popcorn ceiling,” he said. “But we haven’t really ever had them do the work because it does cost a little bit of money and the inconvenience factors very high.”
But can removing a popcorn ceiling add resale value?
That said, the value gained by removing a popcorn ceiling does increase considering buyers’ expectations for homes of a certain size and in a certain price range.
“With a $200,000 house with a popcorn ceiling, there’s a lot of demand and not a lot of supply. Those houses sell faster, so there’s less need to do it,” Schutte said.
By contrast, a 4,000- to 5,000-square-foot house in a higher price range, such as $700,000, can sit on the market longer and make buyers hesitate if it needs upgrades. Why purchase something older that needs fixing when they can buy something in a new subdivision with new amenities for the same price?
“The larger the house, and the more expensive the home, the more prone I am to say that it needs to get done—and it’ll add value by getting it done,” Schutte said. “One of the updates that somebody would want to see in that pricier home is getting rid of popcorn ceilings.”
Schutte estimates that removing a popcorn ceiling would add $25,000 to $35,000 in value for a large estate executive home. For a home of about 1,400 square feet costing about $200,000, he estimates an added value of about $2,500—essentially, close to what a homeowner might put into the project.
Mike Ford, a general certified real estate appraiser serving greater metropolitan Los Angeles and a member of the American Guild of Appraisers, said removing a popcorn ceiling could contribute to an increase in value for a high price range.
For a home worth about $200,000, however, “I cannot imagine the benefit would be worth gambling $2,500 on. It is just as likely the popcorn … may cover ceiling cracks that may require additional costs to repair,” he said.
Rather, a property’s overall condition and appearance will dictate the value more than a single item, Ford added. “A freshly scraped ceiling may add zero value if the entire interior needs new paint and everything else about the house is outdated.”
He advised looking at comparative sales and the current market to prioritize your updates (new flooring, sprucing up the kitchen and bath) before tackling a popcorn ceiling.
“If buyers are already paying high or near highest prices with or without popcorn, then why spend money correcting something the market does not dictate requires correction?” Ford said.
“Paint and finish flooring still are big on interior contribution to value. Exterior paint, including eaves and wood trim, is at least equally important. Chipped and peeling paint can stop your new buyers’ financing in its tracks.”
Other popcorn ceiling fixes
If you’re still concerned that your popcorn ceiling looks dated, there are ways to hide it without tearing it down completely.
The DIY home décor site Apartment Therapy has a number of suggestions, such as covering the ceiling with a drywall panel. Standard 8’x4’ panels cost from $10 to $20, depending on thickness and brand, and you may also need drywall compound and joint tape to connect pieces.
(You also may need to rent a drywall lift, which depending on where you live can cost a minimum of $26 for four hours, with a $100 deposit at Home Depot.)
Another artful way to conceal the ceiling is using tin, wood, aluminum, faux tin, or copper tiles.
A 2’x4’ faux tin white ceiling tile costs about $15. To cover a popcorn ceiling, you’ll need to knock off any large low-hanging pieces and apply a multi-surface primer and sealer such as Kilz Klear (about $19 a gallon) to provide a clean surface for the tile’s glue, such as Loctite adhesive (about $5 to $10 per tube).
For a modern rustic look, the experts at MarthaStewart.com recommend shiplap, historically made of wood boards stacked horizontally on top of one another to make a surface watertight.
Armstrong Ceilings makes a version of ceiling planks that resemble wood that install directly to joists or an existing ceiling, with detailed instructions to cover damaged plaster, drywall, or popcorn ceilings. Prices start at $1 per square foot.
A popcorn ceiling also looks better once it’s clean and bright.
Cover everything in the room with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting, as you would before any large paint job; don a dust mask, safety goggles, and hair covering; and first tackle the ceiling with a feather duster.
Then use a segmented foam roller to apply a fresh coat of paint. Only paint in one direction, so that the popcorn texture doesn’t peel once it gets wet. (If you find stains or stubborn spots, hit those first with spray-paint, and let that dry before using the roller.)
Fresh paint makes a popcorn ceiling less porous, so it’s less prone to collecting dust. Add soft lighting through table and floor lamps to reduce harsh shadows, and the texture becomes more subtle.
If you find that removing your popcorn ceiling is cost prohibitive or not worth the trouble, your best bet may be to have it work for you by freshening it up and casting it in a new light.
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From the first coat of paint you used to freshen up your house’s trim to the stress of wrangling your way to a deal, you’ve been through a lot in that place. Now you’ve made it to the final hurdle of selling a home: moving out! Don’t worry, this is the easy part… but you want to do it right. Here’s how to get through the last leg of your journey without any bumps along the way. How to move out on time Once the paperwork is signed at closing, the buyers will officially own the house—and you won’t. That means that, technically, if you or your stuff is still there after the close, “the buyer could evict you,” says Joshua Jarvis , founder of Jarvis Team Realty in Duluth, GA. So make sure to have your exit strategy in place! Still, most buyers will understand if you need a bit more time and have a legitimate reason—like if you can’t move until the weekend due to your work schedule. Just be sure to discuss these issues as soon as possible before the close, so your buyers can plan accordingly. Decide what to leave behind To make sure you’re leaving behind everything the buyer wanted—and that you agreed to—double-check the closing documents . There should be an itemized list of what comes with the house . And even if the buyers didn’t formally request them, it’s just good form to leave certain types of things behind. Such as? “Generally speaking, you should leave anything that’s bolted to the wall,” says Jarvis. “Some homeowners want to take their fans and blinds to the next home, but generally if it’s screwed in, it stays.” Also, if you and the buyers agreed to transfer any services—such as alarm monitoring or pest control —be sure to set that up before you go. Leave the buyers a detailed note in the house, or ask your agent to get in touch with theirs to make sure the transfer goes smoothly. If you do inadvertently take an item that the buyers had requested, they have the right to ask for it back—and they could potentially sue you in civil court for the cost of a replacement. So, when in doubt, feel free to check with the buyers before you grab and go. But don’t leave anything else behind Just as important as what you leave behind is what you don’t. Your buyers have a right to move into a home that’s been cleared of furniture and other movable items they didn’t expressly request. “Some folks leave all kinds of unwanted clothes, furniture, paint cans, and other items, thinking they are helping the buyers,” Jarvis says. If you truly think your buyers might love to have your old planting pots or kiddie equipment, go ahead and ask—but please don’t assume they’ll welcome your leftovers. Even if you’re careful, you might forget something—at which point the buyers may contact their agent to get it back to you, but they also have the legal right to just keep or get rid of it. So double-check areas (e.g., the attic, garage, basement, storage shed, kitchen, and bathroom drawers) where people commonly overlook items. Clean up It’s common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions but also clean. However, that doesn’t mean you have to leave it immaculate. “Generally, you shouldn’t have to pay to have it deep cleaned,” Jarvis says. In most cases, a simple broom-clean will do. That means wiping down the countertops, cleaning out drawers, sweeping or vacuuming all the floors, and giving the bathroom and kitchen appliances a once-over so the new owners aren’t grossed out when they arrive. Are you forgetting anything? Before you close the door for the last time, run through a quick checklist. Did you eyeball every room for stray items? Have you forwarded your mail and turned off the utilities? Is the water running in the jacuzzi? We all get in a bit of a rush even in the best planned moves, but you won’t be able to get back in, so it can’t hurt to do a final run-through before you move out. Once you’re ready, it’s time to leave. You can drop a line to your real estate agent to let them know you’re out, although it’s usually a courtesy more than a necessity. If you’re feeling truly gracious, feel free to leave a note, card, or bottle of bubbly congratulating the people who’ve inherited your former home. Given all the fond memories you’ve built between those walls, wouldn’t it be nice to start the home’s new owners off on the right foot? And buy yourself some Champagne, too. Make it the good stuff—you’ve earned it.
Buying a home is an exciting time, whether this is your first time purchasing a house or you’re a repeat buyer. But if you’ve owned a home before, you may be wondering if you can be a first-time home buyer again. In some cases, yes, you can. In this Redfin article, we’ll go over what qualifications you need to meet and when you can be considered a first-time homebuyer again. Whether you’re buying a home in Atlanta, GA , or a condo in Portland, OR , read on to find out if you’re eligible to be a first-time homebuyer twice. Key takeaways Usually, you’re a first-time homebuyer again if you haven’t owned a home in 3 years. Some special situations may also qualify you as a first-time buyer. Benefits include down payment and closing cost assistance and lower interest rates. When are you considered a first-time homebuyer again? Typically, you’re considered a first-time homebuyer again if you have not owned a primary residence for at least three years. There are several additional reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer again, which we’ll explore below. Some first-time homebuyer programs have different definitions of “first-time homebuyer,” so check with the specific program before proceeding. Qualifications to be considered a first-time homebuyer There are other reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: You haven’t owned a primary residence for 3 years: This means if you owned a home, but sold it and rented for 3 (or more) years, you can be considered a first-time home buyer again. If you’re buying with another person, only one of you needs to meet the criteria to use most first-time home buyer programs. You’re a single-parent buying on your own: If you’ve never purchased a home by yourself and are a divorced single-parent, you may qualify again. Even if you purchased a home with your former spouse, you likely still meet the criteria. You’re a displaced homemaker/family caregiver: If you are a displaced homemaker who doesn’t or didn’t earn wages from employment and has only owned a home with a former spouse, you’re likely considered a first-time homebuyer. You previously owned a mobile home: If you owned a mobile home or property not affixed to a foundation, then you likely qualify. Your previous home was out of compliance: If your home had building code violations or safety issues that could not be repaired or brought into compliance for less than the home’s value, you’re likely eligible. Benefits of being a first-time homebuyer again There are benefits to being a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: Access to first-time homebuyer programs: One of the biggest benefits is the ability to use first-time homebuyer programs such as down payment and closing cost assistance , grants, credits, or loans. Every program has different qualifications, so make sure to research each program or speak with your agent and lender to explore options. Options for low down payment mortgages: There are several loans available for first-time buyers that offer lower down payment amounts. For example, Freddie Mac’s Home Possible and Fannie Mae’s Home Ready offer down payment amounts as low as 3%. Potentially lower mortgage rates: Sometimes, lenders will offer slightly lower mortgage rates to first-time borrowers to help them buy their first home. FAQs about first-time homebuyers Can I be a first-time homebuyer again if I previously owned a home? Yes, as long as you haven’t owned a primary residence in the last 3 years, or you owned a home while previously married. Do both homebuyers need to be first-time homebuyers to qualify? No, in most cases, as long as one homebuyer meets the qualifying criteria, then you’re considered a first-time homebuyer. However, some programs require both homebuyers to be first-timers. Can I qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan again? Yes, for the most part, if you qualify as a “first-time homebuyer,” you can get another first-time homebuyer loan. Every lender and loan is different, so be sure to read the eligibility criteria thoroughly. Are there income limits for programs? Yes, many first-time homebuyer programs have income limits. This means you won’t qualify if you make more than the specified annual amount.
Enhancing your living space doesn’t always require a hefty budget. With the right updates, you can add real value to your home for under $1,000. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home in Grand Rapids, MI , or looking for some easy DIY projects for your house in Portland, OR , these cost-effective upgrades can breathe new life into your space. To dig deeper into this topic, we spoke with Kevin Brasler, executive editor at nonprofit Consumers’ Checkbook , a consumer advocacy group that helps homeowners save money and make smart choices. With decades of experience evaluating service providers, Kevin shares insights on how to budget wisely, avoid common renovation mistakes, and know when to hire a professional versus taking the DIY route. 1. Add fresh paint to the walls of your home Painting is one of the most affordable ways to refresh your home. A gallon of quality paint costs $30 to $50, with a full room averaging around $350 . Neutral shades like gray, beige, or white appeal to most buyers, while accent colors such as navy, forest green, or mustard add personality. For a calming vibe, try sage or powder blue. Brasler notes that painting is one of the best DIY-friendly projects homeowners can take on. “Good DIY projects are those that involve mostly labor: painting, basic tile work, installing fixtures that don’t require new wiring or plumbing, landscaping, and most flooring jobs,” he says. 2. Update your cabinet hardware A cabinet hardware update is a subtle yet effective strategy to elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Swapping outdated or generic cabinet handles and knobs for modern, stylish alternatives instantly transforms kitchens and bathrooms. Consider sleek brushed nickel handles for a contemporary touch, or opt for vintage-inspired brass knobs for a timeless charm. This modest investment typically costs between $2 to $10 per piece. 3. Change the kitchen backsplash A new backsplash can quickly refresh your kitchen while protecting your walls. A custom kitchen backsplash protects your walls from daily wear and creates a focal point that elevates the entire room. Opt for affordable ceramic or glass tiles, which can be found for as low as $1 to $5 per square foot. Staying within a $1,000 budget for a standard-sized kitchen is doable with those materials. Or you can go for a peel-and-stick backsplash that is not only budget-friendly, but a quick solution to make your kitchen stand out. Brasler stresses that getting multiple estimates is critical for even small-scale projects like this. “The biggest mistake homeowners make is not getting multiple bids. Even for smaller projects, you should get at least three written estimates; five is better,” he explains. 4. Switch to energy-efficient lighting By making the switch to energy-efficient lighting, you’ll not only improve the sustainability of your home but also create a more comfortable and inviting living environment. Switching to LED bulbs, which typically cost between $2 to $10 each, saves energy and reduces utility bills over time. Beyond the financial benefits, the crisp and vibrant illumination of energy-efficient lighting can effortlessly enhance your home’s overall mood and appeal. 5. Create a beautiful landscape A simple landscaping update is another low-cost project that adds value. Try planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the size and variety. Add mulch or decorative stones to create a polished look for approximately $50 to $150, while adding affordable outdoor lighting options typically range from $50 to $200. Low-maintenance features lower costs down while still making a strong impression. For most landscaping updates, DIY is both practical and cost-effective. Still, Brasler advises calling in professionals for anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural work. 6. Install a smart thermostat A smart thermostat, such as popular models like Nest or Ecobee, typically costs between $150 to $300, depending on the brand and features. Homeowners can often handle the installation themselves, avoiding additional labor costs. Once installed, these intelligent devices learn your preferences, allowing for automated temperature adjustments, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. 7. Refurbish or paint the front door Refresh your curb appeal by refurbishing or painting the front door – a low-cost project with instant impact. Sanding and restaining often costs under $100 and requires just a few materials. Another choice is to use high-quality exterior paint, which typically ranges from $30 to $50 per gallon, providing a fresh, vibrant color that suits your home’s style. 8. Add floating shelves or built-ins Consider adding floating shelves or built-in storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized. Floating shelves, available for as little as $20 to $50 per shelf, provide an affordable and stylish way to showcase decor or organize essentials. For a more customized approach, DIY built-ins can be crafted using plywood or ready-to-assemble shelving units, typically ranging from $100 to $300. 9. Upgrade your kitchen sink and faucet Breathe new life into your kitchen with a sink and faucet upgrade. Faucets usually run $100 to $300, and sinks $200 to $500. Consider a sleek pull-down faucet and a resilient stainless steel or granite composite sink to improve both function and style. Spending $300 to $800 on a sink and faucet upgrade can instantly refresh your kitchen’s look and make daily tasks easier. 10. Add safety measures to protect your home Smart security cameras or a basic surveillance system now offer affordable and effective protection. Investing in a home surveillance system, typically from $200 to $500, allows real-time monitoring and deterrence against potential threats. The addition of smart cameras, with features like motion detection and remote access via smartphone apps, can improve your home’s overall safety and convenience. With a budget-conscious investment of $500 to $1,000, you can create a comprehensive security network covering critical areas of your property. Tips for finding good contractors Even for smaller projects, working with contractors requires careful planning. Brasler emphasizes the value of comparison shopping. “Get proposals and detailed pricing from at least three reputable, licensed contractors,” he advises. “The only way to ensure you’re paying a fair price is to initiate competition.” He also suggests: Check references thoroughly. Ask questions like: Did the company follow plans? Did it finish on time? Was the work professional? Did the contractor offer low-cost solutions and stick to agreed prices? Were problems handled promptly and effectively? Did the team communicate clearly throughout the project? Was disruption to your daily life kept to a minimum? Did the finished results meet your expectations for quality and appearance? Was the contractor flexible and fair about changes if you adjusted plans? Ask neighbors and friends for referrals. Word-of-mouth often uncovers the best local contractors. Look for complaints. Check ratings at Checkbook.org or your local Better Business Bureau and be cautious with online reviews as they can’t always be trusted. Common mistakes when budgeting for small renovations Brasler states the biggest budgeting mistake is skipping multiple bids. “A contractor charging $800 might be using premium materials while the $500 bid uses builder-grade stuff. Try to get prices from each business for the exact same work,” he explains. He also reminds homeowners not to assume that a low price means low quality. “For decades we have evaluated all kinds of businesses and often find some of the best companies have the lowest prices,” he says. When to DIY vs. hire a pro While DIY saves money, Brasler stresses knowing your limits. “Call in pros to deal with anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural changes. Ditto for work that requires a permit and inspection,” he advises. For tasks like painting, basic landscaping, or adding shelves, homeowners can usually manage on their own. Keep expectations realistic since DIY projects often take longer and may not match professional results. The bottom line Budget-friendly renovations under $1,000 can make a big difference in your home’s look, comfort, and value. From painting and landscaping to updating fixtures and adding smart technology, these projects prove you don’t need to overspend to refresh your space. As Brasler reminds homeowners, “the key is balancing creativity with caution.” By comparing bids, avoiding common budgeting mistakes, and knowing when to call in the pros, you can achieve lasting results without stretching your wallet.
