Purchasing a home is a considerable investment, and whether you plan to put it on the market quickly or stay long-term, adding value is a positive incentive. When considering home improvements, it’s essential to consider which ones will provide the highest return on investment (ROI) at the closing table.
An excellent way to add value to your home is with home renovations. While most won’t give you a 100% ROI, many will provide an average of
70%, especially those that add functional space or square footage. Home improvements are the best methods to improve your quality of life and ROI because you’re putting work into an appreciating asset.
The work you do doesn’t have to be time-consuming or costly, either. Full renovations often come with hefty price tags and won’t add significantly more value than minor improvements. After all, the last thing you want is to sink additional capital into a project and not recoup it when it comes time to sell — taking on minor projects with plenty of appeal will pay off more. Several home improvement projects make a huge difference, from bathroom and kitchen updates to creating functional spaces, and they don’t take too much time or expense.
The experts at the
Icuss Group have gathered a list of the best home improvement projects for a high return on investment. Read on for some top tips for creating a compelling space that buyers can’t wait to call their own.
Major kitchen remodels
A kitchen renovation tops the list of home improvements to increase your property’s value and ROI. The kitchen is often called the heart of a home, and buyers are often looking for a culinary oasis fit for creating fabulous meals and memories. Extensive kitchen renovations require a makeshift kitchen, which can be a nightmare project, and most buyers don’t want to tackle it. This means they’ll be willing to pay more for your completely upscale and renewed kitchen, especially if it has high-end finishes and upgrades at every turn.
Minor kitchen renovations
If you don’t have time to remodel entirely, there are smaller ways you can make changes that add significant value. If your kitchen has good bones already, you can work with what you have and add upgrades to increase value.
Consider resurfacing your cabinets, adding new hardware, replacing older countertops with granite or quartz, adding pendant lighting over the sink, installing a trendy backsplash, and selecting new and shiny stainless steel appliances. Although these are all minor renovations, they will add major value to your home and create a beautiful new space that appeals to buyers.
Minor bathroom renovations
A bathroom project is another excellent home improvement project to receive a high return on investment. Similarly to the kitchen, a bathroom project doesn’t have to be significant, depending on your budget and time. This might mean adding new tile in the showers, upgrading the cabinets and sinks, or adding a separate tub to create a luxurious and serene spa feeling. Consider repainting the cabinets, installing new flooring, and updating the fixtures. Don’t underestimate a fresh coat of paint on the walls, either. This simple task is one of the easiest ways to add value to your home. Stick to neutral colors to create a refreshing and warm space.
Renovate your entryway
The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior, and it’s the first thing a buyer sees when they pull up to the mailbox. Thus, you can make several improvements to maximize its value, such as giving the entryway a makeover. Something as simple as painting the front door a new color will go a long way in improving the appearance of your exterior. Find a color that compliments the style of your home and materials, like brick or stone. If the door is older, or if you want to add a luxurious touch, consider replacing it with something sleek that brightens the space. You’ll also want to ensure that all furniture or decor around the front door and porch is simple, refined, and not overly distracting.
Other home exterior improvements can be as simple as cleaning or power washing. Landscaping is an excellent way to breathe new life into existing spaces. If you have landscaping and flower beds, ensure they are clear of debris and that fresh mulch has been added. Use flowers and trees to create variety, vibrancy, and dimension. These simple landscaping tips are easy to maintain and require little work. Most importantly, they can increase your ROI.
Backyard renovations
Buyers love liveable spaces, and that includes outdoor entertainment areas. If you have an existing patio or deck, adding greenery will amplify the look and appeal of the space. Use planters in ceramic or stone with varying colors and designs to tie into the ambiance. Lighting and furniture help set the mood and create an intriguing, gorgeous space.
Add functional space to your home
Useable space is one of the best methods of generating value and increasing your ROI. You can often do this with a basement or attic remodel. If you have an unfinished attic or basement, transform these spaces into liveable areas by creating bedrooms, home offices, or living spaces within them. Ensure you’re mindful of how much you’re sinking into the project. While every functional space creates more ROI, you don’t want to invest more than you may return.
Update Your Flooring
Updating your flooring can significantly enhance the appeal and value of your home. Flooring is one of the most noticeable elements in any room, and modern, high-quality flooring can transform the overall aesthetic. Consider replacing outdated carpets or worn-out hardwood with new materials like luxury vinyl planks, porcelain tiles, or engineered hardwood. These materials not only provide a contemporary look but are also durable and easy to maintain.
If you’re on a budget, consider refinishing your existing hardwood floors. Sanding and staining them in a popular shade like gray or dark brown can give them a fresh, modern appearance. Additionally, installing new baseboards and trim can complement the updated flooring, adding a polished touch to the space.
Boost Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and boosting your home’s curb appeal is a surefire way to increase its value. Start with a fresh coat of paint for your home’s exterior. Choose a color that harmonizes with your neighborhood while giving your home a standout look.
Updating your home's siding can also make a significant impact. Opt for modern materials like fiber cement or vinyl siding, which offer both durability and a sleek appearance. Adding stone veneer accents can also enhance the exterior's visual appeal.
Updating your mailbox, house numbers, and exterior lighting can also make a big difference. Choose modern, stylish fixtures that enhance the overall look of your home. Finally, don’t forget about your driveway and walkways. Repair any cracks, and consider adding a sealant to give them a clean, polished look.
Enhance Storage Solutions Throughout Your Home
Buyers are always on the lookout for ample storage space. Enhancing storage solutions throughout your home can add significant value and appeal. Start by organizing and maximizing your closet spaces. Install built-in shelves, rods, and drawers to create custom storage solutions that make the most of every inch.
Consider adding built-in storage in other areas of your home, such as the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms. Built-in bookshelves, cabinets, and window seats with hidden storage can add both functionality and charm. In the kitchen, add pull-out shelves, a pantry organizer, or a lazy Susan to make storage more efficient and accessible.
Don’t overlook the garage and basement. Installing sturdy shelving units and pegboards can help keep these areas tidy and functional. If you have an attic, consider adding a pull-down ladder and flooring to create additional storage space. These improvements not only make your home more organized but also add to its overall appeal and value.
Ready to get started on your selling journey?
Are you interested in preparing your gorgeous property for its debut on the
Jackson Hole, WY, real estate stage?
Contact expert broker Mark Icuss of the Icuss Group if you’re ready to discuss your home’s value and how to achieve the ROI you’re hoping for. With over 20 years of experience selling homes, Mark is highly versed in the features buyers want to see and how to seek out those higher offers. Contact Mark and his team today to get started toward all your real estate goals.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock