🏡 Which Home Updates Deliver the Best ROI When Selling Your Home?

Hello Hampton Roads,

Thinking about selling your home? Here's which updates deliver the biggest bang for their buck!

Before you start swinging a hammer or spending thousands on renovations, let’s talk about which home improvements actually pay off when it's time to sell in South Hampton Roads.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• 💸 Want the biggest bang for your buck? Start outside. Projects like replacing the garage door or adding stone veneer offer up to 194% ROI.
• 🚪 Curb appeal is everything. A steel entry door isn’t just a small upgrade—it can make a huge first impression and nearly double your investment.
• 🍽️ You don’t need a full kitchen remodel. A simple refresh—like painting cabinets and updating counters—can give you up to 96% ROI.
• 🧼 Buyers love move-in-ready homes. Especially in military relocation areas like Norfolk and Virginia Beach, buyers want clean, low-maintenance spaces.
• ❌ Skip the luxury splurges. Pools, smart home tech, and over-the-top bathroom upgrades often cost more than they’re worth at resale.
• 📍 Local expertise matters. Improvements should be in line with other homes in the neighborhood--don't over improve. A local real estate expert can guide your decisions.

💡 When Selling a Home, Which Home Updates Have the Greatest ROI?

Wondering which home improvements will actually help you sell for more? The highest-return updates tend to focus on one thing: first impressions.

According to a recent study by FortuneBuilders, exterior upgrades top the charts when it comes to ROI. Why? Because buyers often make a judgment within seconds of seeing your home—and that curb appeal can make or break their offer.

📊 Top Home Improvements with the Highest ROI

Project	Average ROI
Garage Door Replacement	194%
Steel Entry Door Replacement	188%
Manufactured Stone Veneer	153%
Minor Kitchen Remodel	96%
Vinyl Siding Replacement	95%
Window Replacement (Vinyl)	89%
Deck Addition (Wood)	82%

Source: FortuneBuilders

🏠 Why These Projects Matter?

Buyers in our area whether they are locals or transferring active-duty military or relocating families- prefer homes in good condition that are low-maintenance, move-in ready. Most buyers often don’t want to take on big projects—and will pay more for homes that already look polished and cared for.

Replacing a garage door or front door gives your home an instant facelift. And minor kitchen updates, like refinishing cabinets or updating countertops, can make a dated space feel fresh without blowing your budget.

🚫 What NOT to Spend Big On

Some improvements might seem glamorous, but they don’t always deliver at resale. Be cautious about:

• Installing a swimming pool
• Luxury bathroom renovations
• Smart home automation systems
• Converted garage spaces

These updates may increase your enjoyment of the home but often come with lower ROI when it’s time to sell.

🔨 Pro Tips for Maximizing ROI

✅ Start with Curb Appeal: Garage doors, landscaping, entry doors
✅ Fix Functional Issues First: Roofs, HVAC, water damage
✅ Stay Neutral: Color schemes that appeal to the masses
✅ Hire Pros: DIY can cost more in the long run
✅ Keep Records: Document every update with photos and receipts

🤝 Work with a Local Real Estate Expert

Your neighborhood, your price range, and your buyer pool all affect which improvements deliver the best ROI.

“What works in a Virginia Beach suburb may not work in a Norfolk historic district. I help my sellers understand what’s worth spending money on—and what’s not,” --Liz Schuyler, RE/MAX Allegiance.

🎯 Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about selling your home, focus on upgrades that make your property more appealing from the curb and feel fresh, clean, and functional inside. Even small improvements—like a new light fixture or a fresh coat of paint in a neutral tone—can go a long way.

Need help deciding what’s worth it before you list? Let’s chat. I’d be happy to walk through your home and give you personalized recommendations that can give you best ROI for your investment.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What home improvements add the most value before selling?

Exterior projects like garage door replacement, steel entry doors, and stone veneer provide the highest return. Minor kitchen upgrades also perform well.

Should I remodel my kitchen before selling?

You don’t need a full remodel. A minor kitchen update—like painting cabinets, swapping out countertops, and updating lighting—can deliver a strong ROI and make a big impact.

Are bathroom upgrades worth it?

Modest bathroom improvements (like new fixtures, re-grouting tile, fresh paint, tiled shower walls) can help, but full luxury bathroom remodels often don’t recoup their full cost. 

What’s the best way to boost curb appeal?

Power wash the exterior, replace or paint the front door, upgrade exterior lighting, and tidy up landscaping. These small touches can greatly improve first impressions.

Can I get advice on which updates to prioritize?

Absolutely! I'd be happy to help  you determine which updates will attract buyers and bring you the highest return in your specific neighborhood. Schedule a free call on my calendar link here: https://calendly.com/liz-schuyler

Thanks for Reading,

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