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Renovating your home doesn’t always mean getting a huge return when you sell. But certain improvements can help boost buyer interest and resale value.

If you’re thinking about selling soon—whether it’s in a few months or a few years—it’s smart to focus on updates that add real value. While few upgrades will give you back 100% of their cost, a handful of smart, high-quality improvements can make a big difference.

Upgrades Before Selling Matter

According to research from Zillow and The Harris Poll, 65% of sellers who sold in the past two years made at least two home improvements before listing. Plus, nearly one-third of sellers believe they could have sold for more if they had tackled additional repairs or updates before putting their home on the market.

Not all projects are created equal, though. Below are the top home improvements that deliver the biggest returns, along with affordable projects that can still make a big impact.

Top Home Improvements for a Better Return

If you’re planning a major home project, converting your heating and air system to an electric heat pump could be worth the investment. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, this upgrade costs $17,447 but adds $18,366 in resale value—a 103.5% return.

Here are 10 other improvements that bring strong returns:

1. Garage Door Replacement

Cost: $4,302
Resale Value: $4,418
ROI: 102.7%

2. Manufactured Stone Veneer

Cost: $10,925
Resale Value: $11,177
ROI: 102.3%

3. Steel Entry Door Replacement

Cost: $2,214
Resale Value: $2,235
ROI: 100.9%

4. Vinyl Siding Replacement

Cost: $16,348
Resale Value: $15,485
ROI: 94.7%

5. Fiber-Cement Siding Replacement

Cost: $19,361
Resale Value: $17,129
ROI: 88.5%

6. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

Cost: $26,790
Resale Value: $22,963
ROI: 85.7%

7. Vinyl Window Replacement

Cost: $20,091
Resale Value: $13,766
ROI: 68.5%

8. Midrange Bathroom Remodel

Cost: $24,606
Resale Value: $16,413
ROI: 66.7%

9. Wood Window Replacement

Cost: $24,376
Resale Value: $14,912
ROI: 61.2%

10. Roof Replacement (Asphalt Shingles)

Cost: $29,136
Resale Value: $17,807
ROI: 61.1%

Low-Cost Home Improvements That Help Sell Faster

Big upgrades aren’t always necessary. Small improvements can make a significant difference in attracting buyers and increasing sale price.

1. Fresh Interior Paint

Most homes show signs of wear—scuffs, nail holes, or fading paint. A fresh coat improves both photos and showings. Neutral tones like gray, beige, or white appeal to the widest range of buyers.

2. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Paint the front door, refresh landscaping, and clean up exterior surfaces to create a strong initial impact.

3. Install Smart Home Tech

Smart thermostats, LED lighting, and efficiency upgrades increase buyer appeal and perceived value.

4. Upgrade Lighting

Modern fixtures and better lighting make spaces feel larger, cleaner, and more inviting.

5. Bathroom Refreshes

Simple updates like new lighting, recaulked tubs, and refreshed finishes improve presentation without a full remodel.

6. Flooring Fixes

Clean, repair, or refinish floors to improve overall perception of the home’s condition.

Home Renovations That May Not Add Value

Some upgrades don’t deliver strong returns and may even limit buyer interest:

• Swimming pools
• Luxury appliances and materials in mid-range homes
• Overly complex or high-maintenance landscaping

Basic Repairs That Make a Big Impact

Before investing in major upgrades, address foundational issues that buyers notice immediately:

• Replace broken HVAC systems or appliances
• Repaint damaged walls or remove outdated finishes
• Clean up landscaping and exterior areas
• Fix plumbing leaks and damaged surfaces
• Improve security and privacy where needed