High ROI home renovations

by Bob Hummer 05/06/2025

Home renovations can do more than improve the aesthetics and functionality of your space. The right renovation can also improve property resale value, making it an excellent investment of your time and money. But which renovation projects are worth the work? Here are some home renovation ideas with the highest return on investment:

Garage door upgrade

When it comes to home renovation, garage doors are often forgotten. However, garage door replacement can boost your home’s curb appeal significantly and result in higher resale value. While there are many options available for a garage door makeover, even the simplest and most affordable changes can pay off.

If your current garage door mechanisms are in perfect condition, consider adding a new coat of paint to the outside. If you’ve experienced any issues with the functionality, having the switches, sensors and other components professionally serviced is worth your investment.

Easy kitchen upgrades

You don’t have to tear out and rebuild your entire kitchen to get major returns on a home renovation project. Opt for highly affordable and highly effective upgrades like new hardware for your cabinets and drawers. Painting your cabinets can also transform the entire space and result in more money on a home sale.

New fixtures like faucets increase your kitchen’s total value considerably, even if the upgrade is only for aesthetics. For an extra boost, try installing a water filter attachment or a built-in soap dispenser. DIY upgrades can help you save money and lower your cost, but consult a professional contractor if your renovation process includes electrical or plumbing systems.

Energy-saving vinyl windows

Energy efficiency is always a major plus to prospective homebuyers. However, even if you’re not planning to sell your house, replacing your windows with energy-saving vinyl can bring massive returns.

Homeowners who replace their windows with energy-efficient upgrades can save hundreds of dollars on their central heating and air conditioning. With better insulated windows, you’ll not only get a decent return on investment with increased home value, but with lower energy bills as well.

Not every home renovation has to be a full home remodel. During the planning process, make sure that you’re only completing the necessary upgrades for functionality, ROI and home living experience, so you don’t end up with a huge undertaking that could end up costing you more.

About the Author
Author

Bob Hummer

Bob Hummer brings a wealth of experience with him; a practitioner in real estate in Northern Virginia since 1978, a Life Member of both the Million Dollar Sales Club and the Top Producers Club with over 2,500 Satisfied Families and President, Prince William Association of REALTORS in 1991. His experiences range from helping buyers and sellers attain their goals; to renovating historic homes on Capitol Hill; to counseling and assisting homeowners facing the loss of their home due to foreclosure. Since 1996, he has presented his free monthly Home Buyer and Home Seller seminars at the Woodbridge campus of Strayer University. In June 2023 he completed the Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist course and was awarded the designation CPRES. His goal is to assist individuals who inherited real estate and wish to sell. A former "Military Brat" and a retired Air Force Hospital Administrator, Bob has made more than 26 moves during his life and is extremely familiar with all aspects of a family relocating - whether it is across the street or across the nation.