If you want to make sure you’re getting top dollar for every dollar spent on home improvements…
You’re not alone.
Every homeowner wants to know how to upgrade their house to sell for the highest price. But home improvement projects aren’t created equal.
Some will increase home value dramatically. Others will barely make a dent.
Here’s the reality of the situation:
The projects that give homeowners the biggest return are things that buyers see and feel when they first arrive at the property. Whether it’s a new shingle roof replacement up top or fresh flooring underneath… Making the right upgrades could mean adding thousands to your home’s worth.
What you’ll find inside:
- Why You Should Start With The Roof
- Kitchen Upgrades That Add Value To A Home
- Bathroom Additions Buyers Want
- The Exterior Of A Home Adds “Curb Appeal”
- Energy Efficient Updates To Look For
Why You Should Start With The Roof When Trying To Increase Property Value
Let’s get one thing straight…
Potential buyers know immediately if a roof looks terrible. Messy tree branches, loose shingles, and worn out roof materials are a giant red flag. Make sure your roof isn’t stopping buyers in their tracks before you sell.
Replacing roof shingles is one of the best ways for you to ensure your home’s value increases.
Not only does a new roof protect your home from the elements, but it also improves curb appeal and shows buyers you’ve taken care of the home. Plus, homeowners looking to sell their homes in hotter climates should look for professional roofing services in Texas that can withstand brutal heat and storms.
According to NJ Home Construction and Design, homeowners who get an asphalt shingle roof installation can expect a return on investment of between 60 and 68 percent. Installing a new roof for $20,000 could add up to $13,600 to your home’s value.
There are several added bonuses to this home upgrade as well.
A fresh roof helps lower energy bills, decreases insurance costs and can help calm the fears of buyers who are worried about expensive repairs after they move in. When the housing market is this tough, every little thing helps.
Don’t wait until the last minute to fix or replace your roof. If your roof is cracked, damaged, or at least 15 years old it might be time to seek out a replacement as soon as possible.
Kitchen Upgrades That Add Value To A Home
Here’s the number one tip to increase a home’s value…
Renovate the kitchen!
If you want to know where to spend your money when it comes to house renovations, you can’t go wrong starting in the kitchen.
Not only is the kitchen considered the heart of the home, but it can make or break your property’s value. A kitchen full of outdated appliances, dingy countertops, and cracked flooring will deter buyers.
However, if you make the right kitchen upgrades, you’ll have a lot of dollars left over when you sell.
The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report found that homeowners who completed a mid-range minor kitchen remodel walked away with approximately 113 percent of their project’s cost. Basically, they earned more money back from their remodel than they actually spent.
Who doesn’t want that?
Focus on projects that provide high value and make a noticeable difference:
- Swap countertops for granite or quartz
- Install energy efficient stainless steel appliances
- Paint cabinets or refinish existing cabinetry
- Install a stylish backsplash
Easy kitchen remodels typically rake in more money than high-end remodels because homeowners want to move into a clean kitchen rather than something they have to finish remodeling.
Bathroom Additions Buyers Want
Don’t overlook the bathrooms in your home.
While kitchens are important, sprucing up bathrooms can also go a long way when it comes to increasing home value. Buyers walk into a home and if the bathrooms look like they haven’t been touched since the 80s, they’ll move on pretty quick.
Modernize bathrooms by doing simple things like:
- Installing new faucets/fixtures
- Switching out light fixtures
- Replacing linoleum flooring with neutral tile
- Replace an old shower curtain with a glass shower door
Full bathroom remodels will net you around 65 percent ROI, but if your bathroom additions are on the cheaper end of the spectrum you’ll still impress buyers. Replacing hardware, painting walls, and adding storage can elevate your bathroom.
Bottom line, your bathrooms need to shine!
The Exterior Of A Home Adds “Curb Appeal”
We all know that first impressions are everything. This goes for houses as well.
But here’s something many homeowners fail to realize…
You have to win them over before they even step foot on your property.
What’s the first thing they see? Your home and yard.
Sprucing up your landscape is one of the easiest ways to increase your home value. Some quick fixes include:
- Adding fresh mulch and trimming bushes
- Adding a pop of colour with seasonal flowers and plants
- Mowing and weeding your lawn
- Installing or updating outdoor lighting
Believe it or not, curb appeal can increase your home value by 5-15 percent. Plus, who doesn’t want their home to be inviting when they list it?
Replace your old front door as well. One of the highest ROI home projects you can do is replacing your old front door with a steel door. For such a cheap project, the difference a new door can make is insane.
Energy Efficient Updates To Look For
Believe it or not, energy efficiency is a huge selling point these days.
As mentioned above, new roofs help with energy savings, but other updates like:
- Smart thermostats
- Energy efficient windows
- Improved insulation
…can also increase home value.
Why?
Homeowners want to know they aren’t going to break the bank with their new utility bills. Simple updates like these show the home has been updated with today’s technology. Bonus, you might even be able to earn tax credits for some energy efficient updates.
While you’re installing that new roof, consider adding insulation to your attic. Heat enters and escapes homes through poor insulation and old roofs. A new roof paired with insulation can reduce your energy bills.
Tying It All Together
Home improvements that increase property value can be simple and inexpensive. You just need to focus on what home buyers care about the most.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Start with the Roof — Hire a contractor to replace your roof and clean your gutters
- Kitchen Upgrades That Add Value To A Home — Install granite countertops, upgrade appliances, install new flooring
- Bathroom Additions Buyers Want — Update light fixtures, install new tiles, install a frameless shower door
- Boost Curb Appeal — Touch up your landscape and paint your front door
- Look For Energy Efficient Updates You Can Make
Work from the top of the house down and start with the biggest things that need updates. You’ll be shocked at how these home upgrades can help you sell your home for more.
