Top Home Improvement Projects That Add Value to Your Property

Invest Wisely: Home Improvements with the Best ROI

Not all home improvement projects are created equal when it comes to adding value to your property. While personal enjoyment is always a valid reason to upgrade your home, understanding which projects deliver the best return on investment (ROI) helps you prioritize your renovation budget wisely.

Based on the latest industry data for 2026, here are the home improvement projects that consistently deliver the strongest returns at resale.

Exterior Upgrades: Best Overall ROI

1. Garage Door Replacement (ROI: 95-100%)

Year after year, garage door replacement ranks as the top ROI home improvement project. A new insulated garage door with modern design elements costs between $2,000 and $5,000 installed and recovers nearly 100% of its cost at resale. This makes sense because the garage door is often the single largest visual element on the front of your home and dramatically affects curb appeal.

2. Manufactured Stone Veneer (ROI: 90-95%)

Adding manufactured stone veneer to the lower third of your home's exterior creates a high-end look that buyers love. A typical project covering 300 square feet of exterior costs $8,000-$12,000 and recovers over 90% at resale. This upgrade is particularly effective on homes with vinyl siding that need a visual upgrade.

3. New Siding Installation (ROI: 75-85%)

Replacing old or damaged siding with fiber cement (like James Hardie) or quality vinyl siding improves both appearance and energy efficiency. Siding replacement costs $8,000-$20,000 depending on materials and home size, with fiber cement delivering the highest ROI due to its durability and premium look.

Interior Upgrades: Where Buyers Focus

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel (ROI: 80-85%)

A minor kitchen remodel that keeps the existing layout while updating surfaces, appliances, and fixtures delivers better ROI than a major gut renovation. Refinish or paint cabinets, install new countertops and backsplash, upgrade to stainless steel appliances, and add modern lighting. Budget: $15,000-$30,000.

5. Bathroom Addition or Remodel (ROI: 70-80%)

Adding a bathroom to a home that needs one or remodeling an existing bathroom is always a solid investment. Midrange bathroom remodels that update the vanity, flooring, shower, and fixtures deliver strong returns. Adding a half-bath to a home with only one full bathroom is especially valuable.

6. Hardwood Flooring (ROI: 70-80%)

Real hardwood flooring remains one of the most desirable features for homebuyers. Refinishing existing hardwood floors is one of the highest ROI projects available, typically costing $3-$5 per square foot with a near-complete return. New hardwood installation costs $8-$15 per square foot and also delivers strong returns.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

7. HVAC Replacement (ROI: 65-75%)

Replacing an aging HVAC system with a high-efficiency model appeals to buyers because of lower utility costs and the peace of mind that comes with a new warranty. A new system costs $7,000-$15,000 and is often a requirement rather than an option if the existing system is old or failing.

8. Insulation Upgrade (ROI: 75-85%)

Attic insulation is one of the most cost-effective energy upgrades available. Proper insulation reduces heating and cooling costs by 15-25%, improves comfort, and appeals to energy-conscious buyers. Attic insulation costs $1,500-$3,500 for most homes and delivers one of the best ROI percentages available.

Projects with Lower ROI (But High Personal Value)

• Swimming pool addition (ROI: 40-50%): Great for personal enjoyment but recovers less than half its cost at resale in most markets
• High-end kitchen remodel (ROI: 55-65%): Custom kitchens are beautiful but over-improving for your neighborhood limits resale recovery
• Sunroom addition (ROI: 45-55%): Adds living space but at a lower return than a traditional room addition

Get Started on Your Project

Whatever home improvement project you choose, finding the right contractor is essential to maximizing your investment. Browse trusted professionals on FindMyContractor, compare free estimates, and start adding value to your home today.