Maximize Your Home's Value: Top 10 High-ROI Renovations for Homeowners

The average homeowner is feeling the pinch due to rising interest rates and economic uncertainty. If you’ve owned your home for six months or more, you might be looking for ways to capitalize on your biggest asset—your home. The good news? Strategic renovations can significantly increase your home’s value, making it easier to qualify for a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or home equity loan (HELOAN) if needed.

Here, we break down 10 high-ROI renovations that can boost your home’s value, using an average home value of $400,000 as our reference point. These numbers are based on national averages, but keep in mind that returns can vary by market, neighborhood, and home condition.

1. Minor Kitchen Remodel ($15,000–$25,000 | ROI: 75-85%)

A kitchen remodel doesn’t have to mean a full gut renovation. A minor kitchen remodel focuses on aesthetic and functional improvements without altering the layout. This typically includes:

• Refacing cabinets instead of replacing them

• Installing modern hardware and light fixtures

• Upgrading countertops to quartz or granite

• Adding a new backsplash

• Replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient models

For an average $400,000 home, spending $20,000 on these updates could increase your home’s value by $15,000–$17,000 while making it more attractive to potential buyers and appraisers.

2. Bathroom Remodel ($10,000–$20,000 | ROI: 60-70%)

Bathrooms are another key area where a mid-range remodel can yield a strong return. Focus on:

• Replacing outdated fixtures and vanities

• Installing modern tile flooring and shower walls

• Adding energy-efficient lighting

• Upgrading to a frameless glass shower door

A $15,000 renovation could add $9,000–$12,000 to your home’s value while making the space feel fresh and modern.

3. Curb Appeal Enhancements ($5,000–$10,000 | ROI: 70-80%)

First impressions matter. Enhancing curb appeal can dramatically increase your home’s perceived value. Consider:

• Repainting the exterior ($3,000–$5,000)

• Replacing the front door with a steel or fiberglass door ($2,000)

• Adding fresh landscaping, mulch, and flowers ($1,000–$2,000)

Even a modest $7,000 investment could yield a $5,000–$6,000 increase in home value.

4. Adding a Deck or Patio ($10,000–$15,000 | ROI: 65-75%)

Outdoor living spaces are more desirable than ever. Adding a wood or composite deck, or an upgraded patio with pavers and a pergola, can add value by increasing usable space. A $12,000 deck installation could return around $8,000–$9,000.

5. Attic or Basement Finishing ($20,000–$50,000 | ROI: 70-75%)

An unfinished attic or basement is wasted square footage. Converting these spaces into functional rooms, such as an extra bedroom, home office, or entertainment area, can significantly increase your home’s value.

• A basement remodel costing $40,000 can add $28,000–$30,000 to your home’s appraisal value.

6. Energy-Efficient Windows ($10,000–$20,000 | ROI: 65-75%)

With energy costs rising, upgrading to double-pane, energy-efficient windows can attract buyers while also cutting utility bills. Spending $15,000 on new windows could add $10,000–$12,000 to your home’s value.

7. Smart Home Upgrades ($2,000–$5,000 | ROI: 60-70%)

Adding modern technology makes your home more desirable. High-value smart home features include:

• Smart thermostats ($250)

• Video doorbells and security systems ($300–$1,000)

• Smart lighting and locks ($500–$1,500)

• Built-in home automation systems ($3,000–$5,000)

Even spending $3,000 on smart upgrades could increase your home’s value by $2,000.

8. Garage Door Replacement ($2,000–$4,000 | ROI: 90-100%)

One of the highest ROI renovations is replacing an outdated garage door with an insulated steel or wood door. A $3,500 investment can return nearly $3,500–$4,000 in added home value.

9. Open Floor Plan Modification ($10,000–$25,000 | ROI: 60-70%)

Homes with open floor plans feel more modern and spacious. If your home has unnecessary walls separating the kitchen, dining, or living areas, removing them can increase appeal.

• Removing a non-load-bearing wall costs $2,000–$5,000

• Removing a load-bearing wall and adding a support beam costs $10,000–$20,000

A $15,000 project could add $10,000–$12,000 in value.

10. Fresh Interior Paint ($3,000–$5,000 | ROI: 100%+)

One of the most cost-effective ways to refresh your home is repainting walls, ceilings, and trim in modern, neutral colors (think light grays, beiges, and soft whites). A $4,000 interior repainting job could add at least $4,000 or more in value.

How PropIQ Can Help You Make Smart Renovation Decisions

Not all renovations yield the same return everywhere. Your city, neighborhood, and specific home condition will impact your ROI. For example, a kitchen remodel in a high-end neighborhood might need premium finishes, while a rental-friendly area may prioritize durability over luxury.

This is where PropIQ comes in. PropIQ helps you:

• Estimate renovation costs accurately, so you don’t overinvest.

• Analyze the projected increase in home value, ensuring you get the best return.

• Compare comps in your neighborhood to understand what upgrades make the most sense.

• Find vetted lenders for HELOCs or home equity loans, allowing you to finance renovations smartly.

• Connect with reliable contractors, so you get quality work at the right price.

With real-time data and expert-backed insights, PropIQ takes the guesswork out of home renovations, helping you maximize your home’s potential while making informed financial decisions.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right renovations can significantly increase your home’s value and open up financing options like a HELOC or HELOAN. But knowing which upgrades are worth the cost depends on location, market trends, and your home’s current condition.

With PropIQ, you get data-driven insights that guide you in making the smartest renovation decisions, ensuring you get the highest return on investment.

Ready to start? Visit PropIQ today!