The joy of owning a home is not only in having a personal haven but also in the potential to grow your investment over time. One can achieve this by focusing on strategic home improvements that provide a substantial return on investment (ROI). According to Renofi, the national average ROI for home remodeling projects is around 70%. Not all home improvements are created equal, so understanding what improvements to make can help homeowners gain the best ROI home improvements. This guide provides insights into the most value-driven remodeling projects, from kitchen remodels to outdoor space enhancements, and details factors that impact resale value.
Average Return on Investment by Home Improvement Project
When considering home renovations, it's vital to know the average ROI for each type of project. This information helps homeowners align their efforts with what will bring the most value, helping to save money and create a more appealing property for potential buyers.
Here's a table that provides a comprehensive overview of average ROI for common projects:
Here's a table that provides a comprehensive overview of average ROI for common projects:
| Project | Avg. ROI % |
| Midrange Bathroom Remodel | 60.1% |
| Minor Kitchen Remodel | 72.2% |
| Major Bathroom Remodel | 54.8% |
| Major Kitchen Remodel | 57.4% |
| Garage Door Replacement | 93.8% |
| Wood Deck Addition | 65.8% |
| Replace Windows | 68.6% |
Projects that bring the highest ROI
An overhaul of the kitchen
A minor kitchen remodel not only rejuvenates the heart of your home but also stands among the best return on investment home improvement projects. From new hardware to fresh coats of paint, these updates provide more value to most homeowners.
Giving life with paint
A fresh coat of paint is like a general tidy up for your home. It can make a big difference in both the interior and exterior, enhancing the overall appearance and curb appeal.
Polishing hardwood floors
Refinished hardwood floors bring a warmer space and new life to your existing space. They provide a high ROI and are appealing to most buyers.
Introducing new mirrors
New mirrors can add functional space and enhance the aesthetic appeal of bathrooms and other living spaces, providing a cost-effective way to improve usability and resale value.
Upgrading hardware
New hardware in the kitchen or bathroom can increase usability and create a more modern look, improving the overall feel and ROI of home improvement projects.
Exterior enhancements
Fixing up the exterior with power washing, fresh paint, and a neat driveway can greatly increase curb appeal and ensure that your home looks inviting and well-maintained.
Adding green to the front
Planting trees, bushes, and low-maintenance plants out front can create a welcoming ambiance and elevate the outdoor space, adding more value to your property.
Crafting usable living spaces
Create functional spaces that cater to the needs of potential buyers. Whether it's a family room or a home office, utilizing square footage effectively ensures a good investment return.
Attic and basement transformation
Don't leave the attic and dark and dingy basement unfinished. Basement remodels and attic conversions add usable living space, enhancing the overall square footage and ROI.
Revamping the bathroom
Whether it's a major bathroom remodel or minor bathroom renovations, updating these essential spaces adds more than just comfort; it offers one of the best ROI home improvements.
Factors that shape resale value and ROI
Surrounding area
The neighborhood impacts the real estate market value, and understanding local trends can help you invest in home improvements that resonate with most buyers.
Geographical location
The region where your home is located plays a role in determining what remodeling projects will yield the most value.
Market dynamics
Current real estate market trends have a significant impact on the resale value of your property. Working with a local realtor who understands the real estate market's ebb and flow is crucial in aligning home improvements with what buyers are currently seeking. A kitchen remodel or bathroom renovations might be appealing in one market, while outdoor space enhancements or energy-efficient upgrades might be more enticing in another. By carefully studying the local trends, homeowners can prioritize remodeling projects that are more likely to offer the best ROI home improvements. It's about finding the right balance between what appeals to most buyers in your specific area and what can enhance your home's individual charm.
Time frame
The timeline for selling your home plays a crucial role in determining the ROI of various home improvement projects. If you're looking to sell in the near future, quick fixes like applying a fresh coat of paint or upgrading hardware in key areas like kitchens and bathrooms can make a big difference without breaking the bank. These changes can increase curb appeal and offer more value to potential buyers without a substantial investment of time or money.
However, if you plan to sell your house over a more extended period, long-term investments like garden landscaping or a complete overhaul of a dark and dingy basement into a usable living space may be more appropriate. Such projects may take more time and financial commitment but can transform the overall appeal and functionality of your home, thereby increasing its resale value in the long run.
Contingencies and unforeseen expenses
Unexpected expenses and issues during the remodeling project might affect the ROI. Planning and working with a professional ensures that the project stays on track.
About Elena Price
Elena Price's accomplishments in the real estate world are nothing short of remarkable. Her experience as a real estate professional is further enriched by her credentials, including being among the top 1% nationwide and earning a spot in the Coldwell Banker Society of Excellence. As a Global Luxury Specialist, Certified New Home Specialist, and a Certified Marketing and Relocation Specialist, she's a prominent member of the Greater Boston Real Estate Board and National Association of Realtors®.
If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Massachusetts real estate market, contact Elena Price today.
