Home Projects That Boost Value

Renovating With Purpose: Which Home Projects Really Pay Off?

Whether you're planning to move next month or you're just dreaming about the someday, it’s always a smart move to be strategic about the home projects you take on. Your time, money, and energy are valuable—and not every renovation brings the return on investment (ROI) you might hope for.

As U.S. News Real Estate puts it:

“. . . not every home renovation project will increase the resale value of a home. Before you invest in a swimming pool or new addition, you should consider whether the project will pay itself off by getting prospective buyers in the door when it’s time to sell.”

That’s why one of the best first steps—before the paint swatches and Pinterest boards—is talking to a local agent who understands your market and your goals.

Thinking Ahead = Less Stress Later

If you know a move is coming, go ahead and get a jumpstart on your to-do list. But even if it’s not on the radar yet, life has a way of shifting quickly. A job opportunity, a growing family, or a new season of life can put things into motion faster than expected.

By planning ahead, you’ll have time to:

• Spread out the cost of updates over time

• Tackle projects at your own pace

• Actually enjoy the upgrades while you’re still living in the home

• Avoid last-minute stress when it’s time to sell

So What Is Worth Doing?

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently released a report on home improvements that tend to offer the best bang for your buck.

If a project you’re already considering lines up with one of these high-ROI upgrades—perfect. That means it’s likely to boost both your day-to-day enjoyment and your home’s value down the road.

But here’s the thing: national data is just that—national. What works in one market might not make sense in ours. That’s where I come in. As Ramsey Solutions explains:

“The best way to gauge what you can expect in terms of resale value on home improvements—especially if you’re planning to sell soon—is to talk to a real estate agent who is an expert in your market. They’re sure to know the local trends, and they can show you how other homes with the features you want to add are selling.”

Don’t Overdo It

It’s easy to get carried away, especially with trendy materials and high-end finishes. But be careful not to out-price your home for the neighborhood. While a beautifully renovated space is appealing, too many upscale upgrades can actually make it harder to sell if buyers don’t expect that level of pricing in your area.

The goal is to make smart, thoughtful updates that add value—without going overboard. A good agent (hi, that’s me!) can help you strike that balance.

Bottom Line

Whether your move is six months away or six years down the road, making the right improvements now can pay off big later. You’ll love your space more in the meantime, and you’ll set yourself up for success when it’s time to sell.

Thinking about tackling a project but not sure if it’s the right one? Let’s chat. I’d be happy to take a look at your plans and help you figure out what makes the most sense for your home, your goals, and your timeline.