Top 8 Home Renovations That Add the Most Value Before Selling

Selling your home is a big step, and like most homeowners, you’re probably wondering what updates will give you the biggest bang for your buck. The goal is to invest wisely—focusing on changes that not only make your home more appealing but also help you sell faster and for more money. Here’s a breakdown of the top home updates that consistently offer the best return on investment.

Kentucky Tom Pro Tip: ROI, or Return on Investment, is a performance measure used to evaluate the efficiency or profitability of an investment. It tells you how much profit or value you’ve gained compared to what you spent.

Example: An ROI of 100% means that you’ll likely regain 100% of the fees you’ve paid for a particular home upgrade during the sale.

1. Curb Appeal Improvements

ROI: Up to 100%+

First impressions matter. Homes with strong curb appeal often sell faster and at higher prices. Simple updates like a freshly painted front door, power-washed siding, well-maintained landscaping, and new house numbers can make a big difference without breaking the bank. Replacing or painting the garage door and updating exterior lighting are also smart moves.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a garage door replacement is one of the highest-return projects you can do, often recouping more than 90% of its cost.

2. Minor Kitchen Remodel

ROI: 70–80%

You don’t need a full kitchen overhaul to see a good return. In fact, minor kitchen remodels—like updating cabinet doors, installing new hardware, replacing countertops with affordable but attractive materials (like quartz or granite-look laminate), and adding a modern backsplash—can bring significant value.

Updating appliances to energy-efficient models and installing a new sink and faucet can also elevate the space and make it more appealing to buyers.

Kentucky Tom Pro Tip: Talk with your selling agent. Depending on your local market, if a major kitchen appliance is dated but fully functional, it may not make sense to replace it because it’s difficult to anticipate what color and features a home buyer is interested in (Examples: Black, white, stainless steel).

3. Bathroom Refresh

ROI: 60–70%

A clean, functional bathroom is essential to buyers. You can make a big impact by re-grouting tile, replacing an outdated vanity, swapping old fixtures for modern ones, and adding a fresh coat of paint. If your budget allows, installing a new toilet and updating the lighting can give the bathroom a modern touch that adds perceived value without requiring a major investment.

4. Paint, Paint, Paint

ROI: 100%+

One of the most cost-effective updates you can make is a fresh coat of neutral paint. It instantly freshens up your home and helps buyers envision themselves living there. Neutral colors like soft grays, beiges, or warm whites create a clean slate, make rooms appear larger, and appeal to a wide range of buyers. Don’t forget ceilings and baseboards—they should look just as fresh as the walls.

5. Flooring Upgrades

ROI: 70–80%

Flooring can dramatically affect how buyers perceive a home. Replacing worn-out carpet or dated linoleum with affordable hardwood, laminate, or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can boost your home’s value. If you already have hardwood floors, consider refinishing them—they’ll look like new at a fraction of the cost of replacing them. Consistent flooring throughout the main areas of the home also helps make the space feel more cohesive and modern.

6. Energy Efficiency Improvements

ROI: Varies, but increasingly important to buyers

Today’s buyers are more conscious of energy costs than ever before. Small upgrades like a smart thermostat, energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, and improved insulation can be appealing features. These upgrades won’t just save the new owners money—they can make your listing stand out in a crowded market. While the ROI can vary, these improvements often help sway buyers who are on the fence.

7. Light Fixtures and Hardware Updates

ROI: High for minimal cost

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Swapping out old light fixtures for modern, stylish options and replacing dated hardware on cabinets and doors are easy, inexpensive changes that instantly update the look of a home. These details help convey that a home is well-maintained and move-in ready.

8. Open Up the Space

ROI: High, depending on execution

While knocking down walls can be costly, creating the feeling of openness doesn’t always require major renovations. Consider removing bulky furniture, decluttering, or even taking down a non-load-bearing wall to open up small, confined areas. Buyers love open, airy spaces that flow well—especially in kitchens and living areas.

For Your Consideration

When preparing your home for sale, always consider your local market. A trusted real estate agent can help you determine which updates are most valuable in your area. In general, aim to spend as little as possible for the maximum visual and functional impact. Simple, cosmetic updates often provide the highest ROI—because what buyers are really looking for is a home that feels fresh, clean, and move-in ready.

By focusing on these smart updates, you’ll not only increase the appeal of your home but also improve your chances of a faster sale and a better price. Happy selling!

For More Home Buying and Selling insights, join my Free newsletter by clicking HERE.