When it comes to home remodeling, homeowners often want to know what are the best home improvements to increase return on investment (ROI). Which upgrades will not only serve you while you live in your home but also increase the value when the time comes to sell? While not every decision you make for your home has to be about future value, knowing what helps (and hurts) your ROI can guide the decision-making process.

The Best Home Improvements to Increase ROI

1. Kitchen Remodels

They say the kitchen is the heart of the home, and for good reason. Investing in modern appliances, quality cabinetry, durable countertops, ample storage, and stylish fixtures can significantly boost both the functionality and value of your kitchen.

Regardless of the lifestyle of potential buyers, most people are willing to pay for kitchen renovations that are both functional and beautiful! Putting your time and effort into this room while remodeling can yield a higher price if you decide to sell in the future.

2. Bathroom Remodels

Similar to kitchens, bathroom renovations are key selling points for homes. Frameless glass showers, steam showers, zero-entry showers, and smart storage solutions can elevate the appeal and usability of your bathrooms, enhancing both your daily life and your home's value.

These not only have a high-quality look, but they can also serve you (or prospective buyers) as you age, increasing the longevity of the home. If you can only update one room, make it the primary bath as this will get the most use while you live in the home and tends to be an important factor for buyers!

3. Outdoor Living Additions

Extending your living space into the outdoors is an improvement project that continues to gain popularity. Whether it's creating an outdoor kitchen for entertaining, adding cozy seating areas around a fireplace or fire pit, or enhancing ambiance with outdoor lighting, investing in your outdoor space can yield a high ROI while enriching your lifestyle.

4. Exterior Upgrades

First impressions matter, and enhancing your home's curb appeal can significantly increase its value. Upgrading windows and doors for energy efficiency, freshening up with a new coat of paint, and strategically placed outdoor lighting can all contribute to a more attractive and valuable exterior for future buyers.

Want to see more pictures of transformations? Check out our portfolio!

The Worst Home Improvements for ROI

While some remodeling projects can greatly enhance your enjoyment of your home (and if that’s the goal- go for it!), they may not necessarily translate into a high ROI, particularly if you're planning to sell in the near future.

1. Home Office Renovation Projects

Creating a functional and beautiful home office is a great investment for your productivity and comfort. However, unless you're in a niche market where home offices are highly sought after, the potential return on investment may not be as significant when it comes time to sell. Future homeowners may have a different vision for the space, and too much customization will make it hard for them to make use of the room.

2. Elaborate Personalizations

Any expensive project that overly personalizes your home, such as extravagant pools, sports courts, or ultra-luxury outdoor living spaces, may not appeal to all prospective home buyers and could limit your potential pool of interested parties. These are true passion projects, that are absolutely worth it if the goal is a home you love! However, not many potential buyers will have the same interests and they may be unwilling to pay a higher price for amenities they aren’t looking for.

Increase Your ROI

When planning home remodeling projects, it's essential to consider both the short-term enjoyment and long-term value they offer. By following these tips, you can make smart investments that enhance your home's value for years to come!

The Best Home Improvements to Increase the Value of Your Home