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Real Estate Tips
Tuesday, February 04, 2025

The Top Home Improvements That Increase Value

A small model house sits atop stacked coins, symbolizing how home improvements can increase value. Gloved hands holding tools like a wrench, saw, drill, and paintbrush surround it. A hexagonal logo with "ez" stands on the left against a blue patterned background.

No matter how new or well-maintained a home is, most homeowners eventually feel the need to invest in home improvements. The primary goal is usually to make their space more functional, modern, or comfortable, but nearly all hope these upgrades will boost their home’s value.

According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University (JCHS) Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA), the home renovation industry has surged past $460 billion over the past two years. Similarly, a survey by Discover Home Loans found that 55% of U.S. homeowners prefer renovating their current home over moving to a new one.

The challenge, of course, lies in determining which home improvements have the best return on investment. Deciding where to allocate your budget can be tricky. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the top home improvements for ROI, backed by insights from leading remodeling magazines and real estate reports. 

16 Home Improvements That Increase Home Value

To identify the top 16 home improvements with the best ROI, we’ve compiled data from Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2023 Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features. Every project on the list offers a return of at least 48%, with the top 5 delivering an ROI of 100% or more—essentially paying for themselves by boosting your home’s market value. Here’s an interesting takeaway: most of the highest-ROI projects are outdoor remodels. Let’s break it down:

Curb Appeal Improvements

Some of the home improvements with the highest return on investment in 2024 have to do with curb appeal. The curb of appeal of a home in the first impression –that “wow” factor that makes passersby and potential homebuyers stop and take a second look. Think of it like dressing up for a gala: a fresh coat of paint, a clean, well-groomed yard, or a stylish siding will pose as your home’s outfit for the occasion. 

New Garage Door

While it may not seem like the most profitable home update, Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report states that installing a new garage door is the best home improvement for return on investment (ROI) in 2024. Depending on the installation details, replacing your garage door can recoup over 190% of its cost in added home value at resale. See the details below:

Average Improvement Cost: $4,513

Average After-Sale Value: $8,751

Return on Investment: 193.9%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +91.2%

Investing in a garage door replacement delivers nearly double its 2023 value; therefore, this should be a top choice for curb appeal enhancement for ROI. The cost projection for this upgrade is determined by removing a sixteen-by-seven-foot garage door and its tracks and switching them with a new four-section garage door on heavy-duty galvanized steel tracks. The existing motorized garage door opener is assumed to be reused. 

A Steel Entry Door

Homeowners know that swapping the front door gives any home an instant refreshed, updated look while making the property more secure and energy-efficient. But this feature’s value goes beyond a first impression. 

Average Improvement Cost: $2,355

Average After-Sale Value: $4,430

Return on Investment: 188.1%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +87.2%

Replacing your current front door with steel has climbed to 188%, a considerable increase from 100% in 2023. It is also reasonably affordable compared to other projects on this list. To achieve this resale value, remove the existing entry door for a brand-new, tough-as-nails 20-gauge steel door with a sleek, dual-pane half-glass panel for style and natural light. The new door should have a matching frame, a durable aluminum threshold, and a fresh factory finish in the same color on both sides.

A Manufacturer Stone Veneer

Modern home exterior with gray siding and stacked stone accents. Large windows reflect trees, enhancing the aesthetic value. A path leads to a red front door beneath a wooden overhang. Garden plants line the walkway, adding top-notch appeal. A logo on the left reads "ez" inside a hexagon.

Not only is stone veneer one of the most alluring exterior sidings for homebuyers due to its aesthetic appeal, but it is also a top-performing cladding project, more coveted than other popular choices, like vinyl or fiber-cement siding. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a manufacturer stone veneer offers a high return on investment.

Average Improvement Cost: $11,287

Average After-Sale Value: $17,291

Return on Investment: 153.2%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +50.9%

A stone veneer exterior will give your home a timeless, solid, and instantly sophisticated look that effortlessly blends with your landscaping. This injection of character can recoup over 150% of your investment when selling the home. The projected cost is based on you getting rid of your current siding on about 300 square feet and adding sleek, manufactured stone veneer. Your selected contractor must add two water-resistant barriers, secure them with sturdy lath, fasteners, and mortar, and finish the archway with an 8×10 keystone and stylish stone accents. 

Fiberglass Grand Entrance

Changing your standard front door for a grand entrance can be a game-changer for your home. A grand entrance enhances curb appeal because it is larger, has double doors, a more elaborate design, and premium material. It creates a memorable first impression, portraying the home’s quality and care. A grand entrance also increases the home value.

Average Improvement Cost: $11,353

Average After-Sale Value: $11,054

Return on Investment: 97.4%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +47%

Today, this upgrade has regained almost 100% of its cost. In only 12 months, the addition of a fiberglass grand entrance boosts its ROI by 47%. But what does it mean to install a fiberglass entrance? As per Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, the doorway should be expanded, and a stylish fiberglass door with matching sidelights installed. For many contractors, this is a simple job that can be tackled in one day, 

Other Outdoor Enhancements

This section will dig deeper into other home improvements that are the best ROI, specifically outdoor living enhancements. We will showcase spaces you can add around your home for relaxation, entertainment, and more. 

Adding an Outdoor Kitchen

Adding a new outdoor kitchen to your property’s grounds will almost always boost its appeal and value, especially if you are in a warm-climate location like Florida or Texas. Note that outdoor kitchens’ return on investment varies by location, climate, and materials used. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features, this is its current value:

Average Improvement Cost: $15,000

Average After-Sale Value: $15,000

Return on Investment: 100%

For the ROI mentioned above, your outdoor kitchen should include a built-in grill, stainless steel drawers, an ice chest, and a sink, all topped with 60 square feet of concrete countertops. Finished with veneered masonry stone, this setup is stylish and durable, making it an excellent addition for outdoor gatherings. The report also reveals that 56% of the homeowners went for this upgrade “to add features and improve livability.” In comparison, 13% “just moved into a home and wanted to customize to personal taste.”

Adding a Wood Deck 

A deck addition expands your living space with a new area for hosting backyard barbecues and dinner parties, relaxing with your morning coffee on hand, or enjoying meals al fresco with the fam. It also gives you additional space for exercise sessions or starting a home garden. A wood deck also increases your property’s resale value by over 80%. 

Average Improvement Cost: $17,615

Average After-Sale Value: $14,596

Return on Investment: 82.9%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +32.7%

These figures are calculated based on adding a 16’ x 20’ pressure-treated wood deck with a simple design. The setup should include railings, a small set of stairs, and a matching built-in bench and planter. If you invest in this upgrade, you may expect a return of 82.9%, up 32.7% compared to last year. 

Adding a Composite Deck 

While this upgrade costs more upfront, many homeowners are inclined to choose a composite deck due to its almost nonexistent maintenance needs, high resistance, and durability (25–30 years or more). This home improvement has a slightly lower ROI than a wood deck, but it still recoups almost 70% of the investment. 

Average Improvement Cost: $24,206

Average After-Sale Value: $16,498

Return on Investment: 68.2%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +28.4%

The composite deck change in cost recouped from 2023 is a desirable 28.4%. The figures correspond to a 16×20-foot deck with durable composite boards. It’ll have a matching built-in bench, planter, three-step stairs, and a sleek composite railing. This can definitely be the stylish, low-maintenance upgrade you didn’t know you needed for your backyard –and homebuyers would love it as much. 

A Kitchen Renovation

A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a marble countertop, and a gold faucet. Hexagonal blue tiles adorn the wall, complemented by wooden shelves with plants and decor. Large windows flood the space with light. An overlay featuring the top design trends enhances its home improvements value on the right.

The kitchen is the home’s central hub, where daily life happens. Therefore, renovating this space in your house makes life easier and more stylish. It also expands the building’s value and charms prospective homebuyers. If you are sold on a kitchen renovation, choose the mid-range option. Major renovations have lower returns due to their high initial cost and may not necessarily align with what the buyers look for in specific markets. 

A Minor Kitchen Remodeling / Midrange

As its name suggests, a midrange kitchen remodel has a smaller scope and cost than a major one. It mainly focuses on refreshing the existing space with updated cabinet fronts, new appliances and countertops, and new flooring. No major structural changes are included in this remodeling, which leads to a more cost-effective renovation. See below the costs and ROI details:

Average Improvement Cost: $27,492

Average After-Sale Value: $26,406

Return on Investment: 96.1%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +10.4%

The estimated cost above considers maintaining your kitchen layout and giving it a significant facelift. Swap out the existing cabinet doors and drawers for shaker-style ones with new handles. Then, upgrade to energy-efficient appliances like a cooktop, oven, and fridge. The next steps are replacing countertops, adding a mid-range sink and faucet, and installing new flooring. Finish it with a fresh coat of paint on the walls, trim, and ceiling.

Siding Replacements

Trading your current siding for modern siding instantly improves curb appeal, but that’s not the only benefit you can obtain as a homeowner. Changing the siding of a home works wonders with energy efficiency, structure protection against several types of damages, and less maintenance. 

Fiber-cement Siding 

Switching to fiber-cement siding can be a smart move. It is durable and tough enough to withstand weather, fire, and pests while making your home look fabulous. Some fiber-cement panels have designs that mimic stucco or even wood. Fiber-cement siding also has relatively low maintenance and adds considerable value.

Average Improvement Cost: $20,619

Average After-Sale Value: $18,230

Return on Investment: 88.4%

Shift in ROI from 2023: -0.1%

Homeowners investing in fiver-cement siding may regain almost 90% of the costs upon resale. This upgrade includes removing the existing siding and installing 1,250 square feet of brand-new, factory-painted fiber-cement siding. To finish it, your contractor should add matching trim using tough fiber-cement boards or sleek cellular PVC. 

Vinyl Siding 

Vinyl siding is considered the most budget-friendly option, so replacing their current siding with it is a no-brainer for many homeowners. Vinyl siding is also long-lasting and comes in a ton of colors and designs to match your property’s architectural style. This siding material has a high ROI of 80%

Average Improvement Cost: $17,410

Average After-Sale Value: $13,957

Return on Investment: 80.2%

Shift in ROI from 2023: -14.5%

The data above is based on updating 1,250 square feet of old siding with shiny new vinyl siding, installed as your selected contractor recommends. Your pro should add matching factory trim around all the windows and corners and ensure a solid water barrier is underneath to keep your home dry and protected. 

Window Updates

Old, leaky, energy-draining windows? Then, a replacement is not an aesthetic option but an urgent requirement. See below the most coveted window updates if you’re seeking the best ROI home improvements:

Change to Vinyl Windows 

Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report informs that, in 2024, trading their current windows with vinyl windows has a high return on investment (ROI). This project helps homeowners recoup over 65% of their investment upon resale. 

Average Improvement Cost: $21,264

Average After-Sale Value: $14,270

Return on Investment: 67.1% 

Shift in ROI from 2023: -1.4%

Vinyl windows mix affordability, durability, and energy efficiency. Windows made with this material don’t warp, peel, or fade; therefore, they won’t need constant upkeep. They’re also fantastic at keeping your home cozy and giving your spaces a polished, uniform look whether you decide on a classic or modern window design.

Swap To Wood Windows

Replace your current windows with wood windows for added charm and overall value! They come a little more expensive than vinyl windows, but the investment will be worth it. Wood windows can have a return of almost 63%. 

Average Improvement Cost: $25,799

Average After-Sale Value: $16,222

Return on Investment: 62.9%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +1.7%

Wood windows are the top choice for homeowners looking to replace the old ones in historic or classic dwellings. The estimated cost of this upgrade involves replacing 10 old 3×5-foot double-hung windows with beautiful, energy-efficient wood windows with insulated, low-E glass. Inside, you’ll get a warm stained hardwood finish, while the outside gets sleek custom-colored aluminum cladding. 

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

When looking for the best return on investment home improvements, consider energy-efficient upgrades, such as an HVAC conversion. Keep reading to learn more.

HVAC Conversion / Electrification

Transitioning to an electric heat pump instead of a furnace is a big move but also a smart one that could pay for itself when you sell. An HVAC conversion has an ROI of around 66%; see the details below:

Average Improvement Cost: $18,800

Average After-Sale Value: $12,422

Return on Investment: 66.1%

Shift in ROI from 2023: -37.4%

The costs and percentages calculated are based on a project to replace the old fossil-fuel furnace with an electric heat pump to heat and cool a 2,000-square-foot home, so costs will shift if your home is smaller or bigger. The suggested cost also includes removing the old furnace and recycling all the metal ductwork from the basement, attic, or crawlspace. 

Bathroom Makeovers

Want to give your home a secret weapon for resale success? Bathroom makeovers are high-impact upgrades with ROI typically hovering around 60% and 70%. Bathrooms are one of the most essential and frequently used spaces of any home, so the fact that they are a popular focus for home improvements is no surprise. 

Similar to what happens with the kitchen, choosing a midrange update instead of a major, more expensive one is a good idea. See below.

A Midrange Bathroom Update

Midrange bathroom remodels balance cost and impact. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, updating your house’s bathroom has a potential ROI of almost 74%.

Average Improvement Cost: $25,251

Average After-Sale Value: $18,613

Return on Investment: 73.7%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +7%

The data projection is based on renovating a 5×7 bathroom and adding a new 30×60 tub with a classic tile surround, a single-handle shower control, and a sleek white toilet. The contractor should also include a solid vanity top with a built-in sink, a handy-lighted medicine cabinet, a stylish tile floor, and some fresh vinyl wallpaper.

Roofing Replacements

A new roof doesn’t just make your home look sharp; it’s a major selling point for buyers who want peace of mind knowing they won’t have to deal with leaks or repairs anytime soon. The two best ROI options for 2024 are explained below.

New Asphalt Shingle Roof

Asphalt shingles are North America’s most commonly used roofing material and the roofing type with the highest return. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report states that installing a new asphalt single roof recoups close to 57% on the inversion. 

Average Improvement Cost: $30,680

Average After-Sale Value: $17,461

Return on Investment: 56.9%

Shift in ROI from 2023:-4.2%

Close-up of a house roof with dark, wavy metal panels and a brick chimney. A blue and white hexagonal "ez" logo adorns the left side, set against a teal hexagon pattern. This top-notch design is perfect for increasing value with stylish home improvements.

New Metal Roof 

Replacing an old roof with a new metal roof will increase your property’s worth in almost all scenarios. Not only does a metal roof enhance curb appeal with a modern, stylish look that lures potential buyers, but it can also help reduce energy bills while offering outstanding longevity and eliminating the hassle of frequent and expensive roof repairs. You may invest a lot upfront, but the effort will pay off later. 

Average Improvement Cost: $49,928

Average After-Sale Value: $24,034

Return on Investment: 48.1%

Shift in ROI from 2023: +0.8%

According to the 2024 Cost vs Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, replacing your roof with sleek, prefinished metal panels costs about $50K and brings a resale value of $24K—a 48.1% ROI. The job includes stripping the old roof, adding protective layers, and covering 3,000 square feet with locking metal panels, complete with custom trims, skylight fittings, and a ridge vent.

Do all home improvements boost a home’s value?

Not all home improvements are created equal, so no, they don’t always add value to your property. There’ll be times when you will invest and don’t make a profit –nor even break even. That is because boosting a home value and getting a solid return on investment are two entirely different things. 

How much a home improvement increases your home’s resale or market value is made evident by the property’s worth change compared to the amount spent on improvements. We are not referring to a single improvement but all upgrades performed over time. 

This is helpful for homeowners planning to sell, borrow against their dwelling, or simply want to know their accumulated home equity. You would not be able to calculate your home value yourself. The most reliable source to determine how much your house value has grown is a licensed professional appraiser.

On the other hand, the Return on Investment (ROI) is normally shown as a percentage, and it is calculated based on how much a specific home improvement cost you can get back in value. For example, the average cost of adding a new entry door made of steel is around $2,355, with an ROI of 188.1%. This means this home improvement will add around $4,430 to your home’s current price tag, no that your overall house value will increase by nearly 200%. 

What influences the value a home renovation adds?

Several factors influence ROI, including the quality of the work, how personalized the home improvement is (sometimes a home upgrade that is too individualized may not appeal to potential homebuyers), the local market trends, if it aligns with the style of other homes in its neighborhood, and how functional the home improvement actually is. Even the overall condition and age of the home and the cost vs. value ratio have to do with how much value an improvement adds, or if adds any. 

Final Words: Best ROI For Home Improvement 

Whether you’re looking to make your home more enjoyable or thinking about calling your real estate agent and putting it on the market, knowing which upgrades bring the best ROI in your area can make all the difference. 

We hope our list gave you the latest info and a boost of confidence to call your trusted contractor and start those upgrades that maximize your investment. If you found this blog helpful, feel free to share it with others who might benefit from it. For more real estate tips, be sure to check out the EZ Home Search blog! For more real estate articles, check out the ez Home Search blog!

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Preston Guyton