Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Kiplinger
Kiplinger
Business
Becca van Sambeck

When a Home Upgrade Becomes a Lifestyle Creep Trap

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Most of our day-to-day lives are spent in our homes, so of course we want to properly invest in them, making them as comfortable and beautiful as possible. But a trendy home upgrade might not just change your living situation; it can have a long-term impact on your financial situation as well — and not only because of the upfront costs that go into a house addition. Factors like insurance, utility bills and weatherproofing can all lead to a lifestyle creep trap that irreparably damages your current financial state.

Still, that doesn't mean you shouldn't splurge on the hot tub or that you need to halt construction on your new wing. The benefits of an upgrade can outweigh major costs. Here's how to determine if your dream housing changes are really worth it for you, as well as tips to keep your finances in check.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.