Top renovations that add value before selling your home
If selling your home is on your 2025 bingo card, you may be looking for ways to maximize your earnings by increasing your home’s value and eventual sales price. Let’s dive into some of the top renovations that add value to your home.
According to a trusted annual report released by the respected trade publication Journal of Light Construction, these exterior renovations offer a return on investment greater than 100 percent, based on national averages:
| Garage door replacement
Average project cost: $4,513 Average resale value: $8,751 Average cost recoup: 193.9% |
Entry door replacement
Average project cost: $2,355 Average resale value: $4,430 Average cost recoup: 188.1% |
Manufactured Stone Veneer
Average project cost: $11,287 Average resale value: $17,291 Average cost recoup: 153.2% |
Did you know?
Per a Zillow article, A black front door is associated with the highest resale value of any color. Buyers are also more likely to request in-person home showings when they see a black front door in listing photos.
While the average ROI nationally isn’t greater than 100%, there is still value in making exterior improvements to things like landscaping, lighting, mailboxes, siding, and driveways as these contribute to your home’s curb appeal and your potential buyer’s first impression.
Now, let’s discuss interior renovations.
Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen renovations can get expensive and it’s easy to go overboard with updates, but remember, you’re looking to maximize your earnings when you sell your home – not create your dream kitchen for someone else to enjoy.
Interestingly, the JLC report indicates that minor kitchen renovations have a higher ROI than full-out remodels. Making the kitchen bigger or giving it a new layout with top-of-the-line materials and finishings can get very expensive and typically doesn’t pay off when it comes time to sell. Cosmetic upgrades like painting, refinishing cabinets, upgrading hardware, and replacing appliances, sinks, countertops, and flooring bring an average ROI of 96.1% and don’t have to break the bank.
Bathroom Remodel
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Remodeling Impact Report, 26% of Realtors suggest making livability improvements and upgrading worn-out bathroom surfaces, finishes, and materials before selling your home.
While the average ROI for bathroom renovations is lower than some of the others we’ve explored (71%), there are cost-effective ways to make a few cosmetic upgrades that will pay themselves off when it comes time to sell. Even simple things like a fresh coat of paint, a new toilet, mirror, or towel holder can make a difference.
Interior Painting
48% of Realtors suggest repainting your home’s interior prior to selling, according to the NAR report. Freshly painted homes offer a fresh, clean look that contributes to a 34% increase in listing beauty & aesthetics ratings.
Final considerations
While we’ve explored the highest ROI renovations for both your home’s interior and exterior, there are many others that you can consider based on your budget and timeline. What’s important is prioritizing your time and money by working on the projects that will give you the greatest return. If you’re handy, there are a lot of simple projects you can tackle yourself to save money.
If you have unfinished projects to wrap up or repairs you’ve been putting off, consider tackling those before listing your home for sale. Most buyers don’t want to inherit unfinished projects or make repairs before moving into their new home. Getting these things taken care of before selling can help your home sell faster and for more money.
When you’re ready to start the process, find a Summit Loan Officer to discuss your future homeownership goals with. If you aren’t already working with a Realtor, they can introduce you to a local expert who can offer renovation and selling-preparation advice catered to your local market.
