Top Home Improvement Projects to Increase Property Value

Home improvements can add aesthetic and comfort appeal to a property, as well as increase its value. Some projects may prove more likely than others to boost home values.

Kitchen upgrades typically recoup 100% of their costs when selling. Other high-return projects include adding a secondary suite or garage conversion and improving curb appeal through landscaping.

1. Update Your Kitchen

Kitchen updates tend to produce the greatest return. To avoid over-doing it, select trends which are both trendy and timeless for maximum effectiveness.

Upgrades that are too individualized or outside the style of your home may actually decrease its value, such as custom-built lounge areas, luxury bathrooms or bold tiling choices. This may include things such as custom built seating areas or bold tile patterns.

Small projects such as installing a new front door, manufactured stone veneers or updating your windows offer high returns on investment (ROI). Meanwhile landscaping can easily increase curb appeal: simply replace outdated shrubbery and trees, plant some weed-free flowerbeds or trim back bushes to boost its appearance. Furthermore, simple upgrades like washing windows and adding fresh paint are both cost-effective ways of refreshing the look of your home’s facade.

2. Upgrade Your Bathroom

Addition of a bathroom is one of the top home improvement projects for increasing property values, adding anywhere between 5-12% in value depending on its size; half baths add approximately 5-9%, while full bathrooms increase your value by 20% or more.

Upgrades that make the bathroom appear more contemporary and efficient are highly attractive to buyers. Installing modern energy-efficient lighting fixtures is an economical way of instantly improving its appearance.

Avoid making expensive modifications that might deter future buyers. Instead, focus on cosmetic updates like neutral-colored tile and updating outdated mirrors and light fixtures with modern ones – this will appeal to buyers more. This is important, as buyers typically look for homes which won’t require costly improvements themselves.

3. Add a Deck or Patio

No matter if you’re planning on selling or simply remodeling for yourself, certain projects can increase the value of your home. Many upgrades can even be accomplished with some sweat equity and DIY upgrades – meaning no costly renovation projects!

Installation of an outdoor project like a deck or patio can add both aesthetics and livability to your property, with wooden decks recovering 72% of their costs in return.

Landscaping projects add significant value to any home. When selecting perennial plants over annual ones that only last one season, make sure to choose perennial varieties. Furthermore, make sure you trim hedges, mow the lawn and patch any bald patches in the yard regularly for maximum value creation.

4. Add a Bonus Room

Certain home improvements may add no real value. A home recording studio might not appeal to potential buyers looking for family spaces instead.

However, having a finished bonus room does add value. This flexible space can serve various functions such as being used as a playroom, media room or home office.

If you want to maximize the value of your bonus room, start by installing proper insulation. This will ensure it remains both energy-efficient and comfortable, and drywall and paint for a professional finish can also help increase value. Many house plans with bonus rooms include closet options so they can easily become walk-in closets in future if buyers see potential in them as flexible space options.

5. Clean Up the Exterior

Home improvement enthusiasts often overlook cleaning up the exterior as an effective and cost-efficient means to increase property values. Studies reveal that homes with clean windows, neat lawns and an appealing driveway tend to sell for 10%+ more than counterparts with disorganized outdoor spaces.

Small projects, like upgrading your front door and adding lighting, generally offer the greatest returns. Larger investments like manufactured stone veneers, roof replacement or adding a primary suite may also increase property appeal while improving functionality for future owners of your home.