We all want to make wise investments, and putting money into your home is almost always a brilliant idea. The challenge is knowing which projects are worth the cost. You want upgrades that make daily living more enjoyable but also add measurable value when it’s time to sell.

Each year, Remodeling magazine publishes its Cost vs. Value Report tracking the ratio of value over cost on remodeling projects in 150 US markets. Using their data and expert insights, here are the top updates that provide the best return on your investment.

#1 Garage Door Replacement

It may not be the most exciting project, but replacing a garage door consistently delivers one of the highest returns on investment. A new garage door can improve curb appeal, swaying buyers before they even step inside.

Garage doors come in a wide variety of materials, including steel, fiberglass, wood, and composite wood. The national average cost of replacing a 16’ x 7’ steel door with foam insulation and insulated glass windows is $4,513, while the average resale value is $8,751.

#2 Entry Door Replacement

A front door is one of the first features buyers notice. Replacing it with a steel model that includes a dual-pane half-glass panel costs an average of $2,355, but resale value averages $4,430.

Steel doors are the most budget-friendly option. Fiberglass is a step up, offering more insulation and a wider range of styles. Wood remains the most expensive choice but has an undeniable natural beauty.

#3 Manufactured Stone Veneer

Many buyers love the look of stone on a home’s exterior. Manufactured stone veneer delivers that same curb appeal as natural stone, but it’s a fraction of the cost and is easier to install. The average cost of adding 300 square feet of veneer to the bottom third of a facade is $11,287, with an average resale value of $17,291.

When choosing veneer, select colors and styles that complement other elements of your home’s exterior, like the paint color and architecture. Common color palettes are beige-and-cream or gray-and-blue. Irregular shapes that resemble cobblestones or rectangular shapes with clean edges are popular options.

#4 Kitchen Remodel

A minor kitchen remodel is best when your space needs a cosmetic update instead of a completely new floor plan. The typical project costs $27,492 and has an average return of $26,406 at resale. This update includes a new energy-efficient cooktop, refrigerator, sink, fixtures, countertops, flooring, painted walls, and re-facing cabinets and drawers.

Swapping out hardware and painting backsplashes are simple ways to refresh the space. Vinyl or laminate options are the most affordable flooring options, while slate, hardwood, or engineered wood are higher-end. If you’re shopping on a budget, top-of-the-line appliances aren’t necessary, as mid-range models are sleek and energy-efficient enough to do the trick.

#5 Bathroom Remodel

Updating a bathroom makes a big difference to buyers and often delivers solid return on investment. A remodel averages $25,251, with an average resale value of $18,613. This covers replacing the tub, tile surround, flooring, toilet, sink, vanity, and fixtures.

Simple updates like re-glazing or re-caulking a tub can make it look new without replacing it. Modern finishes, neutral tiles, and contemporary light fixtures appeal to today’s buyers while giving your bathroom a clean, fresh look.

#6 Deck Addition

Adding a deck is a sizeable investment, but it creates valuable space for outdoor living, whether barbecuing, hosting dinner parties, or dining al fresco. A typical project features a 16’ x 20’ pressure-treated wood deck with railings, a small set of stairs, and a built-in bench and planter. It comes at a national average cost of $17,615, with an average resale value of $14,596.

Material choice plays a big role. Wood is prized for its natural look, while composite is more expensive upfront but requires less maintenance. Decorative planters, mature plants, and strategic lighting can further enhance the space.

Make the Best ROI Home Improvements

When it comes to home improvements, true return on investment isn’t just measured at resale; it’s in the comfort, beauty, and function you enjoy every day. At Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design, we design with longevity in mind.

We’ll outfit renovations with the best ROI home improvements that fit your needs, delivering long-term comfort and value. View the projects we’ve done for clients across the US, and contact us today to get started!