Does Removing Popcorn Ceiling Increase Home Value? The Surprising Truth!

Staring at your popcorn ceiling? Wondering if removing it adds value? We get it. Homeowners everywhere are ditching that outdated texture. It’s bumpy. It’s old. And it’s disappearing fast—almost as fast as a bad Wi-Fi signal.

Why? Because popcorn ceilings scream old-school—and not in a cool, vintage way. They make homes look outdated, are hard to maintain, and in some cases, hide a dangerous secret.



So, does removing a popcorn ceiling increase home value? Is the effort and cost justified? Let’s understand.

What Is a Popcorn Ceiling? And Why Was It Ever a Thing?

Also known as acoustic ceilings, they were everywhere. From the 1950s to the 1980s, they were a top choice. Builders loved them. They were cheap. They were easy to apply for. They hid imperfections like magic. They even helped with soundproofing. But what was once trendy now feels outdated. Today’s buyers want smooth and modern ceilings.

Short answer: Yes! Long answer: It depends on a few key factors.

1. Homebuyer Perception Matters

Most buyers today see popcorn ceilings as outdated. They associate them with old homes that need work. For instance, there are two houses. Same size. Same features. One has smooth ceilings. The other has popcorn. Guess which one sells faster? Guess which one sells for more? Yep—the smooth one.

2. Increased Marketability & ROI

Experts say removing popcorn ceilings can bring up to a 107% ROI. Spend $2,000 on removal? Your home’s value could go up by at least that—or more. Plus, homes without popcorn ceilings sell faster. Less time on the market. Fewer price cuts. More money in your pocket.

3. Higher Price Point Potential

In high-end markets, popcorn ceilings are a hard no. Luxury buyers won’t even blink at a home with outdated ceilings. It instantly makes the space feel old and out of touch. But removing them transforms the entire vibe. Suddenly, the home feels modern and worth more. In fact, ditching that ceiling alone can bump your selling price. Roughly by $25,000 to $35,000! This is a major comeback on investment.

4. First Impressions Matter

When buyers walk into a home, the initial feel often determines their interest. Popcorn ceilings can create a negative impression. They can make a home seem neglected. Smooth ceilings, however, have the opposite effect. They make the space feel modern and fresh. These are major selling points. Buyers are more likely to be drawn in by smooth ceilings.

5. Modern Homes Sell Better

Real estate trends show that modern, updated homes sell faster. They also sell for a premium. Buyers prefer newer, more contemporary properties. Removing the popcorn ceiling can give your home a modern touch. This small step makes your home more competitive in the market.

Before you grab a scraper, check for one crucial thing— asbestos. Many popcorn ceilings installed before 1978 contain asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous material. It can cause serious health problems. 

If your home is from that era, play it safe—get a professional asbestos test before doing any removal. And if asbestos is present, don’t tackle it yourself. A licensed expert can handle it safely.

Cost of Removing Popcorn Ceilings

• DIY Removal: $300 – $600 for supplies. But super messy and labor-intensive.
• Professional Removal: $1,000 – $3,100. The average cost for a standard home.
• Asbestos Removal: $3,000 – $7,000. If remediation is needed.

DIY is cheap. But it’s not always the best idea. Hiring a pro ensures a smooth finish without ruining your drywall!

How to Remove Popcorn Ceiling: Step-by-Step Guide

Not ready to scrape your ceilings? No problem. Here are some less invasive alternatives:

1. Skim Coating

A contractor applies a thin layer of joint compound over the popcorn. This creates a smooth surface. It’s a cleaner process than scraping. There’s less dust. So expect to pay around $1–$3 per square foot.

2. Ceiling Panels or Drywall

You can cover the popcorn ceiling with thin drywall sheets. This hides the texture completely. No scraping, no mess. It’s a great option for a smooth, flawless look. The result is clean and modern.

Hate the look but don’t want to remove it? A fresh coat of white ceiling paint can help. It won’t make the texture disappear. But it will look cleaner. It will also feel brighter. Not a perfect fix. But definitely an improvement!

Are you planning to sell soon? Removing popcorn ceilings is 100% worth it. It instantly modernizes your home. It attracts more buyers. It can even boost your sale price.



Staying put? You still benefit. Removing or hiding popcorn ceilings refreshes your space. It’s one of the best home upgrades. Either way, ditching that outdated texture is a smart move. Your home will look better. Your wallet will thank you!

✔ Removing popcorn ceilings increases home value and marketability.
✔ Buyers prefer smooth ceilings over outdated textures.
✔ ROI can be up to 107%—meaning the cost is often worth it.
✔ Check for asbestos before removing old popcorn ceilings.
✔ Professional removal costs $1,000 – $3,100, but DIY is an option.
✔ Alternative solutions include skim coating, drywall, or painting.
✔ Homes with modern ceilings sell faster and at higher prices.

Take the first step today! Remove that popcorn ceiling and see your home’s appeal rise. Got questions? Contact us now!