Kathleen Layton, BHHS Fox & Roach, Realtors

Let’s cut to the chase: pouring your life savings into mega-renovations just because Pinterest told you to? Not the smartest resale move. The National Association of Realtors’ April 9, 2025 “12 Remodeling Projects That Offer the Best Value at Resale” report spills the beans on what projects actually give you the biggest bang for your buck—and which ones are basically decorative shelf candy.

Top Dogs: The Projects That Pay You Back

• New steel front door – 100% cost recovery. 
• Closet renovation – 83%. Maximize storage, minimize regret.
• New fiberglass front door – 80%. A knockout alternative to steel if you’re after style on a budget.
• New vinyl windows (74%) and wood windows (71%) – 
• Basement (71%) and attic conversions (67%) – Add usable space without slapping on another wing.

Mid-Tier Projects: Still Worth It

• Complete kitchen Reno (60%) and minor kitchen upgrade (60%) – Big returns - not life-changing in terms of ROI but could be in your quality of life!
• Bathroom addition (56%) and new primary suite (54%) – Solid investments, especially in 2nd bath-starved neighborhoods.
• Bathroom renovation (50%) – Clean, fresh, attractive—no plumbing relocation, no heartbreak.

The Joy Score Factor
Homeowners don’t just want ROI—they want to live in the upgrades. NAR tracked “joy scores,” where the highest (a perfect 10) went to adding a primary suite, kitchen upgrades, and new roofing. But guess what? None of those top the cost recovery list—they’re feel-good wins, not wallet miracles.

Wrap It Up With a Reality Check
Sure, kitchens and baths are eye-catching, but you recoup just 50–60% of the cost. If you're flipping or selling soon, prioritize high-ROI, smaller-scale upgrades—like doors, windows, storage, space conversions, paint, and roofing. These are practical, neighborhood-smart choices that won’t leave you eating ramen to cover costs.

In short? Don’t chase flash—opt for functional style and smart spend. Your future self will thank you at closing. My Home Assessment Service will help you sort this all out by determining the most effective things you should – and shouldn’t - do to maximize your sale price. And it’s FREE! Reach out anytime to schedule to 215-801-2019 or Kathleen@KathleenLayton.com.