What’s Really Worth Renovating, According to Scott McGillivray

When it comes time to update your home, there are several factors to consider. What problems are you trying to solve? How do you let your style and taste guide your renovation design choices? What’s your budget? It’s important to pick things that will serve you well, rather than just jumping on a trend that doesn’t address your issues and will look outdated in just a couple of years.

How about you let renovation expert Scott McGillivray help you decide? In At Home With Family Handyman’s new series Ask…Scott McGillivray, Scott reacts to a variety of DIY and home improvement clips. Each episode showcases amazing transformations, creative solutions, hilarious mishaps and some truly peculiar home projects. Scott shares professional insights, practical tips and plenty of laughs, all while highlighting the creativity and spirit of the DIY community.

After filming, we showed Scott some standout Family Handyman builds that reflect popular home upgrades aimed to boost property value and functionality. Here’s what he had to say about their payoff!

Home Saunas: Hot or Hype?

Home saunas sound fantastic, but they often feel like an aspirational addition rather than a practical one. Scott’s take? It depends. According to him, “wellness is in, and outdoor saunas are having a serious moment. High-end buyers might see it as a bonus, but average homeowners should consider portability, like a barrel sauna! If you’re installing one, focus on energy-efficient models and quality wood such as cedar. And make sure it doesn’t eat into your yard or deck space too much.”

Are Floating Shelves More Style Than Substance?

Sometimes, form and function go hand in hand, and other times, you have to choose between what’s practical and what looks pretty. When it comes to shelving, Scott says, “I like using floating shelves in short-term rentals. They make it easy for guests to find what they need. For homeowners, they look great, but too many mean lost storage. I like mixing them in: Keep some uppers for function, and use shelves as stylish accents.”

Which Luxury Shower Finishes Make a Splash?

Having a fancy bathroom can make your home feel more luxurious, so picking the best finishes is key. According to Scott, “smart controls, multiple showerheads and heated floors are solid investments. Overly trendy features (such as blue LED strips or niche tech) can age quickly. Focus on timeless materials and great water pressure. Add a built-in bench or niche for everyday function—those make a bigger impression than you think!”

Are Electric Fireplaces Worth Their Wattage?

When the weather starts to turn chilly, lighting a fire in your fireplace is a nice treat. But if you’re wondering whether it’s worth it to opt for an electric one, don’t worry. Scott has you covered. He says that “modern electric fireplaces have really leveled up. You get ambiance and warmth without the hassle of gas lines or chimneys. They’re especially great in condos, basements or secondary living areas. They are definitely attractive to buyers who want that cozy aesthetic without maintenance.”

Tune in to Ask…Scott McGillivray on At Home with Family Handyman for epic builds, DIY fails and pro tips from a guy who’s seen it all.

About the Expert

• Scott McGillivray is a triple-threat expert in real estate, renovation, and finance with decades of experience in the field. Best known for the award-winning series Income Property, he is the host of At Home With Family Handyman’s Ask… Scott McGillivray.

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