Remodeling Projects That Add Value and Joy to Your Home

Thinking About Remodeling? Here’s What’s Actually Worth It

If you’ve been going back and forth about remodeling—maybe you're tired of the outdated kitchen or wish your bathroom felt more like a spa—here’s something to keep in mind: the right updates not only make your space feel better, they can seriously boost your resale value.

According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of REALTORS®, Americans spent a wild $603 billion on home renovations in 2024. And it’s not just for aesthetics—today’s buyers are far less willing to “look past” outdated features. In fact, 46% say condition is non-negotiable.

But before you start demo-ing the walls or planning a full-blown kitchen overhaul, let’s talk about which projects are actually worth it—both financially and emotionally.

💸 Projects That Pay You Back

If you’re thinking resale in the near future, here are the updates with the best return on investment:

• Steel Front Door – 100% cost recovery

• Closet Renovation – 83%

• Fiberglass Front Door – 80%

• New Vinyl Windows – 74%

• New Wood Windows – 71%

• Basement or Attic Conversion – 71%

• Complete or Minor Kitchen Reno – 60%

• Add a Bathroom – 56%

• New Primary Suite – 54%

• Bathroom Reno – 50%

Even smaller upgrades like fresh paint, new light fixtures, or replacing old hardware can make your home feel updated and inviting—without a major investment.

😊 Projects That Spark Joy

Sure, ROI is important. But let’s not ignore the other side of the equation: how your home makes you feel.

The report also looked at something called a Joy Score—basically, how happy people felt after completing certain projects. Here are the top feel-good renovations:

• New Primary Suite – 10/10

• Kitchen Upgrade – 10/10

• New Roof – 10/10

• Bathroom Reno – 9.8

• Complete Kitchen Reno – 9.7

• Paint a Room – 9.3

• New Wood Flooring – 9.1

• Basement Conversion – 8.8

• Paint Exterior – 8.8

• New Front Door – 7.5

• New Siding – 7.3

• Garage Door – 7.0

Even better?

• 64% of homeowners said they wanted to be home more after remodeling

• 46% said they got more enjoyment from their space

• 55% felt a big sense of accomplishment

• And if money wasn’t a factor, 92% would remodel even more

🛠 Remodel Now, Enjoy Now, Sell Later

Here’s the big takeaway: you don’t need to be planning to sell tomorrow to justify investing in your home. Most homeowners said they remodeled to replace worn-out features—not because they were selling. And only 18% said they were doing it in prep to list.

So if you’re eyeing a few updates this year, go for the ones that’ll make your home feel more like you—and know that they’ll likely pay off down the road too.

If you want help figuring out which projects add the most value for your specific home or neighborhood, I’m always happy to give my honest feedback. Just reach out!