The Best and Worst Home Improvements for Boosting Resale Value

Renovating your home before selling can help increase its resale value, but not all improvements offer the same return on investment. While some updates can make a significant difference, others may not add much value to the sale price. Here’s a breakdown of the home improvements that can increase your home’s resale value and those that might not be worth the investment.
Top 5 Home Improvements That Add Resale Value
1. Roof Replacement
If your roof is aging, replacing it can offer one of the best returns on investment. A new roof is a major selling point, as potential buyers are unlikely to want to take on the cost of replacing an old roof soon after moving in. With a new roof, buyers have peace of mind, knowing they won’t have to deal with roof repairs for years. This upgrade is often seen as a necessary and worthwhile expense that can increase your home’s value.
2. New Front Door
A new front door may seem like a small upgrade, but it can make a significant impact on your home’s curb appeal and first impressions. A modern, secure front door enhances both aesthetics and functionality, improving the security of the home as well. It also helps to set the tone for potential buyers, signaling that the home has been well-maintained.
3. Attic Insulation
Although attic insulation is not something buyers typically notice at first glance, it plays a key role in making a home more energy-efficient. Well-insulated homes save on heating and cooling costs, which is a feature that many buyers appreciate. Additionally, proper insulation can help keep pests out, further boosting its value. It’s a simple, cost-effective upgrade that pays off in the long run.
4. Fireplace Installation
A new, energy-efficient fireplace can be a great way to increase your home’s appeal and value. Many buyers are drawn to the warmth and ambiance that a fireplace provides. Whether for cozy nights in winter or as an aesthetic feature, fireplaces add both charm and comfort to a home. Installing one can be a smart investment that appeals to a wide range of potential buyers.
5. Bedroom Conversion
Converting an attic or basement into an extra bedroom is a great way to add square footage and increase resale value. Homebuyers often seek properties with enough bedrooms to accommodate growing families or to use extra rooms for guests or home offices. This project is generally more affordable than a full addition and can provide a high return on investment.
5 Home Improvements That Don’t Add Much Resale Value
1. Backyard Patio
While a backyard patio might improve your outdoor living space, it typically doesn’t have a significant impact on the resale value of your home. Because patios are generally hidden from view and don’t contribute to the home’s curb appeal, most buyers are unlikely to pay extra for one. If you’re looking to upgrade your backyard, a more extensive porch or deck might be a better investment.
2. Home Office Renovation
Creating a dedicated home office space can be appealing for some buyers, especially with the rise in remote work. However, not all buyers need or want a home office. If the space is tailored too much to a home office setup, it could deter potential buyers who don’t work from home. This type of renovation might not add much to your home’s resale value, especially if the space can be easily repurposed.
3. Primary Bedroom Addition
Expanding your primary bedroom may seem like an appealing idea, but it’s often a costly project that doesn’t necessarily lead to a higher sale price. Unless the original bedroom is extremely small, most buyers won’t pay significantly more for a larger bedroom. This renovation is best suited for homeowners who plan to stay in the home long term rather than those looking to sell soon.
4. Adding a Bathroom
Adding a bathroom can be beneficial if your home has an imbalance between the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, but it’s not always a surefire way to increase your home’s value. For example, adding a bathroom to a two-bedroom home might not provide much of a return, while adding one to a larger home with multiple bedrooms may be a better investment. In many cases, upgrading an existing bathroom will provide a better return than building an entirely new one.
5. Window Replacement
Replacing windows can seem like a good way to improve your home, but unless they’re significantly damaged or inefficient, this upgrade won’t provide a large return on investment. Simply swapping out old windows for new ones won’t increase your home’s value much, as most buyers won’t be willing to pay extra for this feature alone. However, replacing broken windows or improving insulation can have a greater impact.
Conclusion
When preparing to sell your home, it’s essential to focus on improvements that will give you the best return on investment. Replacing the roof, installing a new front door, and adding insulation are all great options that can enhance your home’s value. On the other hand, renovations like adding a home office or replacing windows may not provide a significant increase in resale value. By carefully selecting the right upgrades, you can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and secure a higher sale price.