10 Home Renovations to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck

Happy New Year! The new year is a time for fresh starts and a big boost of motivation — what better way to take advantage of it than to take on some home renovations that make your space shine??

When you’re getting ready to sell your home (or to start thinking about it), you might want to tackle projects that up the property value. It’s a great idea, until you realize you’ve spent more money on upgrades than you’ll get in return on your investment.??

If you want to make renovations that offer the most impact per dollar, try these top home improvements that increase your home’s value and potentially yield the best ROI:?

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1. Curb Appeal (Landscaping & Exterior)?

?First impressions matter, and curb appeal plays a huge role in attracting potential buyers. Simple improvements like adding fresh mulch, trimming shrubs, planting colorful flowers and keeping your lawn maintained can have a major impact. Even just washing the exterior and painting the front door can make your home more inviting!?

?2. Minor Kitchen Renovations?

?You’ve probably heard that kitchen renovations are the best way to add value to your house. That’s almost always true: the kitchen is the heart of the home, and a few updates go a long way.??

?But it doesn’t have to be a major renovation to be worth the time or money. Consider upgrades at every price point, including replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient models, updating cabinet hardware, installing a modern backsplash and re-grouting tile. A full remodel is expensive, but small improvements can do wonders, too!?

?3. Bathroom Remodels?

?Nobody wants a dingy bathroom. A simple remodel can include replacing old fixtures, updating the vanity, installing new lighting or adding modern tiles. If the budget allows, consider installing a new shower or tub to improve both the function and the room’s aesthetic appeal.?

?4. Fresh Paint?

?Fresh paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a home look new inside and out. Neutral colors are usually the best choice for broad appeal. Repainting the interior walls and touching up the exterior increases your home's overall appeal and makes it feel like it's been taken care of.?

?5. Adding or Refinishing Hardwood Floors?

?Hardwood floors are highly desirable and can add significant value. If you have old carpet, consider seeing if it covers up hardwood floors or spending the time to refinish your existing wood floors. They have a timeless appeal that many buyers prefer right now — plus, they’re easier to clean.?

?6. Energy-Efficient Upgrades?

?Making energy-efficient upgrades can feel like an unnecessary splurge if you aren’t planning to stay in your home forever, but buying a house that already has them feels like pure profit. Adding insulation, installing energy-efficient windows or upgrading to a smart thermostat can lower utility costs, which is a huge selling point. Solar panels can also be a fantastic long-term investment, depending on your location and any local energy incentives.?

?7. Open Floor Plans?

?This one might be a little controversial — modern homebuyers have preferred open floor plans for a while. But after spending so much time at home from 2020–2021, it became clear that there’s a lot of value in having designated spaces for different parts of your life.??

If possible, consider removing non-structural walls to create a more open and spacious feel when appropriate, especially in the living, dining and kitchen areas. This can significantly improve the flow and usability of your home without requiring constant availability.?

8. Basement or Attic Conversion?

If your home has an unused (or unfinished) basement or attic space, consider converting it into a livable area like an extra bedroom, office or entertainment room. Adding additional square footage, especially in urban areas, can be a significant value booster.?

?9. Modern Lighting?

Lighting has a major impact on how a home feels. Consider replacing outdated flush mount lights or ceiling fans with modern, energy-efficient lighting fixtures. Well-lit spaces appear larger and more inviting, making a home feel brighter and more contemporary. You can also play around with warmer versus cooler lighting to see which brings out the best features of each space.?

10. New Roof?

A new roof is one of the most expensive home improvements, but it often offers a solid ROI because it addresses a major concern for many buyers. If your roof is in poor condition, investing in a new one provides peace of mind to potential buyers and makes your listing more marketable.?

Bonus Tip: Staging?

While not technically an improvement, professional, thoughtful staging significantly enhances a home’s appeal. Walking into an empty space can show the bones of a beautiful home, but staging helps buyers visualize how the space can be used and shows them how inviting it could be to live there. The result? Faster sales and higher offers.??

The key to getting the best ROI is to focus on improvements that appeal to the widest range of buyers — and that you can comfortably afford. Additionally, be careful about over-improving for the neighborhood where you’re located; if your property is the most expensive in the area, you may not recoup all of your investment. Always consult with a real estate agent (like me!) to determine which improvements are most likely to add value in your specific market when you’re looking to sell.?

Start 2025 home improvements off with a bang — the most bang for your buck. Get in touch for professional advice, see my current listings and get great ideas about the possibilities for property in Washington County at https://www.yourstgeorgehome.com/!?

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