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Home Improvements That Add Value

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Key Takeaways

Main PointSummary
Cost Range of ImprovementsFrom $125 for yard cleanup to $40,000+ for a new roof installation
Return on Investment (ROI)Most exterior upgrades have high ROI, some reaching over 100%
Important Functionality UpgradesKitchen and bathroom renovations are essential for adding value
Energy EfficiencyReplacing windows and updating HVAC systems provide good long-term savings
Minor ImprovementsSimple activities like interior painting can yield over 100% ROI

Home Improvements That Add Value

$3,000 – $16,000 Average Cost For New Landscaping

New landscaping can considerably enhance curb appeal and property value. Depending on the complexity and extent of the landscaping project, you can expect to invest between $3,000 and $16,000.

$4,000 – $18,000 Average Cost For Minor Kitchen Renovation

A minor kitchen renovation involves updating cabinet hardware, painting walls, and installing energy-efficient appliances. These updates typically cost between $4,000 and $18,000 and can substantially improve the home’s marketability.

$5,500 – $30,000 Average Cost For Bathroom Renovation

Updating a bathroom can make a significant impact on a home’s value. Whether it’s adding new fixtures, tiling, or increasing space, bathroom renovations usually cost between $5,500 and $30,000 depending on the scale of the upgrade.

Home Upgrades That Add Value

Project TypeAverage CostAverage ROI
Exterior Upgrades
Upgraded Landscaping$3,000 – $16,00095% – 100%+
New Garage Door$800 – $3,70095% – 100%+
New Front Door$500 – $1,900+50% – 100%+
New Exterior Siding$10,000 – $32,50085% – 100%+
New Roof$5,700 – $40,00045% – 60%+
Interior Upgrades
Minor Kitchen Renovation$4,000 – $18,00075% – 85%
Bathroom Renovation$5,500 – $30,00035% – 65%+
Basement Conversion$3,000 – $12,00070% – 75%
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
New Windows$200 – $1,500 per window (vinyl)
$800 – $3,800 per window (wood)
60% – 70%
HVAC Conversion$3,200 – $13,000+100%+
Minor Improvements
Interior Paint (Professional)$3,500 – $10,000100%+
Yard Cleanup$125 – $400Up to 100%+

Exterior Home Improvements That Add Value

Improve The Landscaping

Improving landscaping will significantly enhance the appearance and value of your property. Here are some popular landscaping projects and their costs:

Project TypeAverage Cost
Yard Cleanup Cost$125 – $400
Landscape Upgrade Cost$3,000 – $16,000
Outdoor Kitchen Cost$7,000 – $35,000
Patio Cost (10’x20′)$1,000 – $7,000
Deck Cost (20’x20′) – Wood$10,000 – $20,000
Deck Cost (20’x20′) – Composite$16,000 – $32,000

Replace The Garage Door

A new garage door is functional and can drastically improve curb appeal. This investment typically costs between $800 and $3,700, providing an ROI of 95% to 100%+.

Upgrade The Entry

Upgrading the front door adds immediate visual appeal and security. Depending on the materials and style, the cost ranges from $500 to $1,900+, with an ROI of 50% to 100%+.

Replace Old Siding

New exterior siding can make your house look brand new and increase its insulation properties. The cost for this project can range from $10,000 to $32,500, with an ROI of 85% to 100%+.

Replace The Roof

Replacing the roof is a substantial project but crucial for house longevity. Depending on the material used, costs can range from $5,700 to $40,000.

Roof MaterialAverage Total Cost
Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost$5,700 – $12,000
Metal Roof Cost$7,500 – $40,000

Interior Home Upgrades That Add Value

Upgrade The Kitchen

Updating the kitchen, even with minor changes like resurfacing cabinets and updating hardware, can attract buyers. Kitchen renovations typically cost between $4,000 and $18,000.

Update The Bathroom

Renovating a bathroom by installing new fixtures, adding tiles, or enhancing space can cost from $5,500 to $30,000.

Bathroom SizeAverage Cost
Small Bathroom Renovation Cost$2,500 – $10,000
Average-Sized Bathroom Renovation Cost$5,500 – $15,000
Primary Bathroom Renovation Cost$10,000 – $30,000

Paint The Interior

Professional interior painting allows for quick modern updates. Professional services range from $3,500 to $10,000, often yielding over a 100% ROI.

Increase The Living Space

Converting or updating unused spaces like basements or attics can add significant living areas. The costs range from $3,000 to $12,000 for basement conversions, providing an ROI of 70%-75%.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades That Add Value

Convert To Electric Heating & Cooling

Upgrading to a more efficient HVAC system can reduce energy bills and increase property value. Costs range from $3,200 to $13,000+.

Install New Windows

Installing new windows improves energy efficiency and aesthetical value. Here’s a breakdown of costs by material:

Window MaterialAverage Cost Per WindowTotal Installed Cost*
Vinyl Window Replacement Cost$200 – $1,500$2,000 – $22,500
Wood Window Replacement Cost$800 – $3,800$8,000 – $57,000

Install Solar Panels

Investing in solar panels can greatly reduce energy costs over time and increase the home’s value. However, these systems require a significant initial investment.

Minor Home Improvements That Increase Value

Minor upgrades like yard cleanup and professional interior painting can have a significant impact on the home’s aesthetic appeal and value. These improvements can offer substantial ROI with a relatively small investment.

Home Improvements That Do Not Add Value

Certain home improvements might not guarantee a good return on investment. Projects that are too personalized or over-improvements that exceed neighborhood standards could have a limited impact on property value.

Home Improvement FAQs

Are Home Renovations Tax Deductible?

Home renovations are generally not tax deductible unless they are part of a home office setup or meet specific medical purposes. Consult a tax advisor for personalized advice.

What Adds More Value – Remodeling Or Adding Square Footage?

Both remodeling and adding square footage can add value, but the right choice depends on your existing home structure and the surrounding real estate market. Generally, adding square footage tends to offer more value in high-demand areas.

How Do I Choose Home Improvements With The Best Resale Value?

Selecting improvements that align with current market trends and enhance functional spaces will yield the best resale value. Kitchens and bathrooms are high-impact areas to upgrade because they tend to appeal to prospective buyers.

Getting Estimates From Home Improvement Contractors

Questions To Ask A Contractor:

  1. How many years have you been in business?
  2. Can you provide references or examples of similar projects you’ve completed?
  3. What is the estimated timeline for completion?
  4. What is your warranty policy?
  5. Can you provide a detailed, written estimate?

Ensuring you have all relevant information upfront will help in selecting the right contractor for your project.


This comprehensive guide aims to help you understand different home improvements and their potential to add value to your property. By considering upfront costs and expected ROI, you can prioritize projects that will provide the greatest benefit.

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