Which renovations increase resale value the most?

Which renovations increase resale value the
most?

Want the biggest payback when you sell? Here are the renovations that raise resale value the most — fast, clear, and proven.

Quick answer

Small-to-medium kitchen upgrades, bathroom remodels, curb appeal improvements, and energy-efficient updates deliver the highest resale ROI. Prioritize updates buyers notice first: kitchen, bathrooms, front curb, and major systems (roof, windows, HVAC).

High-ROI renovations that actually sell houses

• Kitchen updates: New cabinets, quartz or solid-surface counters, modern hardware, and energy-efficient appliances. Buyers judge a home by the kitchen. A smart mid-range kitchen remodel often returns a large share of the cost at sale.

• Bathroom remodels: Focus on the main bathroom and ensuite. Replace dated tile, install a walk-in shower or modern tub, update vanities and lighting. Small-to-mid bathroom updates give strong returns.

• Curb appeal and entry upgrades: New front door, fresh paint, clean landscaping, and house numbers. First impressions impact buyer perception immediately and are relatively cheap with high impact.

• Flooring: Replace worn carpet with hardwood or high-quality laminate. Consistent flooring throughout living areas opens up spaces and increases perceived value.

• Energy-efficient improvements: New windows, improved insulation, and smart thermostats. Buyers increasingly value lower utility bills. Energy upgrades can be a differentiator and support higher offers.

• Paint and minor repairs: Neutral paint, repaired trim, updated lighting — low cost, high impact. These items remove friction in buyer inspections and sell faster.

• Finished basements and attics: Adds usable square footage. When done right and permitted, finished space increases marketable living area and buyer interest.

How to prioritize your budget

1. Fix major defects first: roof, structural issues, electrical, plumbing. Buyers notice problems before style.
2. Spend where buyers spend: kitchen and main bathroom.
3. Invest in curb appeal early — it boosts showings and perceived value.
4. Keep design neutral and clean. Save bold choices for the next owner.

Numbers to expect (industry-backed ranges)

Industry reports like Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value and buyer surveys from real estate associations show these general ranges:

• Mid-range kitchen remodel: strong payback, often recouping a high percentage of cost.
• Bathroom remodel: moderate-to-high recoupment depending on scope.
• Curb and entry improvements: very high return on small investment.
  These are market-dependent. Local demand, neighborhood standards, and timing affect final ROI.

Action plan you can use today

• Inspect: list defects and high-impact cosmetic updates.
• Budget: allocate 60% to kitchen/bath, 20% to curb/paint, 20% to systems and finishes.
• Execute: hire licensed pros for structural, electrical, or plumbing work. Use local contractors with portfolio homes sold recently.

Ready to maximize resale value? (Call to action)

Get a market-specific plan and a target renovation list that matches your neighborhood standards. Contact Tony Sousa, local realtor and renovation advisor, for a free consultation: tony@sousasells.ca | 416-477-2620 | https://www.sousasells.ca

Act now. Spend where buyers pay, not where you want to show off.