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10 Remodeling Projects That Deliver the Best Return at Resale in 2025 🏡💰

 


If you're thinking about remodeling, whether to enjoy your home now or to prepare it for sale, one question matters most:

Will I get my money back?

According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report conducted by the National Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, some projects deliver significantly better resale value than others.

Here are the 10 remodeling projects with the highest estimated cost recovery at resale, plus insights on why they matter.

1️⃣ New Steel Front Door — 100% Cost Recovery 🚪

Estimated Return: 100%

This is the only project on the list that fully recovers its cost.

Why it works:

  • Immediate curb appeal boost

  • Improved security

  • Energy efficiency

  • Relatively low upfront investment

First impressions matter. When buyers walk up to a home, the front door sets the tone.

2️⃣ Closet Renovation — 83% Cost Recovery 👗

Estimated Return: 83%

Storage is a top priority for today’s buyers.

Why it works:

  • Maximizes usable space

  • Feels luxurious

  • Improves organization

  • Highly appealing in primary suites

You don’t necessarily need to expand — just optimize what’s already there.

3️⃣ New Fiberglass Front Door — 80% Cost Recovery 🚪

Estimated Return: 80%

Fiberglass doors offer:

  • Durability

  • Energy efficiency

  • Wood-look styles without the maintenance

If steel isn’t your style, fiberglass offers strong ROI with aesthetic flexibility.

4️⃣ New Vinyl Windows — 74% Cost Recovery 🪟

Estimated Return: 74%

Buyers love:

  • Lower energy bills

  • Improved comfort

  • Reduced outside noise

  • Updated appearance

Energy efficiency continues to influence purchasing decisions.

5️⃣ New Wood Windows — 71% Cost Recovery 🌲

Estimated Return: 71%

Wood windows:

  • Enhance architectural character

  • Appeal in historic or high-end homes

  • Offer warmth and craftsmanship

They cost more than vinyl, which slightly lowers recovery, but they can be worth it in the right property.

6️⃣ Basement Conversion to Living Area — 71% Cost Recovery 🛋️

Estimated Return: 71%

Finishing a basement:

  • Increases functional square footage

  • Adds entertainment or guest space

  • Appeals to multi-generational households

In markets like ours, additional finished living space is a major value driver.

7️⃣ Attic Conversion to Living Area — 67% Cost Recovery 🏠

Estimated Return: 67%

Attic conversions:

  • Add bedrooms or office space

  • Increase livable square footage

  • Appeal to remote workers

Just be sure ceiling height and egress meet local building codes.

8️⃣ Complete Kitchen Renovation — 60% Cost Recovery 🍽️

Estimated Return: 60%

Kitchens sell homes — but full renovations are expensive.

While you may not recoup all costs, you:

  • Improve marketability

  • Shorten time on market

  • Increase buyer appeal

Be strategic. Avoid over-improving for your neighborhood.

9️⃣ Minor Kitchen Upgrade — 60% Cost Recovery 🔧

Estimated Return: 60%

Smaller upgrades can include:

  • Cabinet refacing

  • New countertops

  • Updated lighting

  • Fresh paint and hardware

Often, this provides better financial efficiency than a full gut renovation.

🔟 Bathroom Addition — 56% Cost Recovery 🛁

Estimated Return: 56%

Although the cost recovery percentage is lower, adding a bathroom can:

  • Dramatically improve functionality

  • Increase buyer pool

  • Be especially valuable in homes with only one bath

In certain price points, this upgrade can significantly enhance resale appeal.

What This Means for Homeowners

A few key takeaways:

✔️ Smaller, high-impact upgrades often outperform large renovations in cost recovery
✔️ Curb appeal improvements provide strong ROI
✔️ Energy efficiency matters to buyers
✔️ Added functional living space increases perceived value

If you're planning to sell within the next few years, prioritize improvements that:

  • Align with your neighborhood

  • Appeal to today’s buyer expectations

  • Deliver strong resale recovery

Thinking About Remodeling Before You Sell?

Every market is different. Before starting a major project, it’s wise to:

  1. Get a current market evaluation

  2. Understand buyer expectations in your price range

  3. Avoid over-improving beyond neighborhood norms

The right project can make your home more enjoyable today — and more profitable tomorrow.

If you'd like help deciding which improvements make the most sense for your home and your goals, I’m always happy to talk about strategy.

_______________________________________________________________________

Whether buying, selling, or seeking valuable insights into the market, I'm here to be your trusted guide in the dynamic world of real estate. Feel free to contact me for a confidential discussion, where we can explore your goals, address any questions, and navigate the exciting path of real estate together. Your real estate journey is unique, and I am committed to providing personalized assistance tailored to your needs. Don't hesitate to connect. 


Dani | 734-623-9442 | dani@danihallsell.com

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