Best ROI Home Improvements for Your Home

Thinking about your home improvements' return on investment (ROI) is essential, even if you don't plan on selling your house shortly. Every upgrade you make has the potential to either increase or decrease your home's value, so it's important to consider how your choices may impact future buyers. Buyers are drawn to features that are functional and timeless. For homeowners who want to enjoy their space now while also preparing to sell their home, thinking long-term can help them get the best return on their investment when it's time to sell.

Not all upgrades are created equal. For instance, personalizing your home with bold, unique color schemes or over-the-top designs may suit your taste, but it can alienate potential buyers. Over-personalization makes it harder for buyers to envision themselves in the space, lowering your home's appeal. While you want your home to feel like your own, it's wise to keep future buyers in mind and avoid choices that don't provide a good ROI, like highly customized spaces or designs that are too niche.

A well-thought-out bathroom remodel can significantly impact your home's value. In fact, a mid-range bathroom remodel can offer a return on investment of up to 60%, according to Remodeling Magazine. But the good news is you don't have to overhaul the entire bathroom to see a solid return. Minor updates can make a big difference without the hefty price tag.

Start by focusing on easy, impactful changes, like updating the shower door and fixtures. Swapping out an outdated shower door for a sleek, frameless option can modernize the space and appeal to buyers. Replacing fixtures with more contemporary options, such as brushed nickel or matte black, adds a touch of luxury. If your bathroom needs a bit more work, consider upgrading the tile. Marble or large-format tiles are elegant and reduce or eliminate grout lines.

A kitchen remodel is often considered one of the most valuable home improvements, with a minor kitchen remodel offering an average return on investment of 70-80%, according to Zillow. But that doesn't mean you must completely gut your kitchen to see these benefits. Often, simple updates can bring a dated kitchen into the modern era. If your kitchen appliances and fixtures are outdated, upgrading them could be all it needs to stand out in the real estate market. Stainless steel or energy-efficient appliances are especially popular with today's buyers.

One of the most popular trends is hidden cabinetry and appliances, which create a seamless, sleek look by blending these elements into the surrounding design. Cabinet replacement is not always necessary. Instead of tearing out cabinets, consider refinishing or painting them. A fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference at a fraction of the cost, boosting your home's appeal without hurting your ROI. Earth tones are on-trend, giving the kitchen a warm, inviting feel that appeals to many buyers.

Landscaping is one of the easiest ways to boost your home's value. According to Angi, a well-maintained lawn with landscaping increases the home's value by 7%. Sustainable landscaping is also a growing trend. By incorporating sustainable features, like drip irrigation systems and rainwater harvesting, you can make your landscaping environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

Low-maintenance flowers and plants are key in landscaping that will attract buyers. Native plants are ideal because they're already adapted to the climate in Santa Fe, requiring less water and care. These choices help create a visually appealing yard that doesn't require much upkeep, a huge selling point for many potential buyers. Consider adding drought-tolerant plants like lavender or sage to create a stunning yet manageable landscape. Thoughtful landscaping can set your home apart and increase its value.

Outdoor living spaces have become an extension of the home, with features like decks, patios, and outdoor kitchens creating an additional "room" to enjoy. In fact, adding an outdoor kitchen can deliver a return on investment of up to 100%, according to U.S. News. To maximize your outdoor area's appeal, consider how it can blend with the interior of your home. Similar colors, textures, and materials blur the line between inside and outside, creating a harmonious flow that enhances the overall living experience.

Add features like privacy shrubs or trellises with climbing plants to make outdoor spaces feel cozy and private. Lighting sets the mood and extends the usability of the space into the evening. From string lights to built-in patio lighting, this detail can elevate the ambiance of your outdoor area. Whether installing a deck, updating your patio, or adding an outdoor kitchen, these spaces will appeal to buyers.

Painting is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to increase your home's value, with an average return on investment of 107%, according to HomeGain. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a room, making it feel new, clean, and inviting — precisely the kind of environment potential buyers want to see. Whether refreshing an interior space or sprucing up your home's exterior, the right color can make all the difference.

For interior spaces, soothing earth tones and shades of blue are among the most popular choices. These colors create a calming, welcoming atmosphere that resonates with today's buyers. If you paint the exterior, dark blue has emerged as a standout shade, adding elegance and modern flair to any home. The beauty of painting is that it's a relatively affordable upgrade that can have a significant impact, making it one of the best return on investment home improvements for homeowners.

When making the best improvements to increase your home's value, thoughtful upgrades can lead to significant returns. Every improvement counts whether you're considering a bathroom remodel, fresh landscaping, or smart home technology. As a top 2% Berkshire Hathaway agent nationwide and a Certified Luxury Specialist, Robyn Tyra has the expertise and insight to help you determine which upgrades will provide the greatest return on investment. With a commitment to building strong relationships with her clients, Robyn ensures personalized advice that aligns with your goals.