What Adds Value to a Home? 25 Improvements Ranked by ROI (2026 Guide)

Quick Answer: The home improvements that add the most value are garage door replacement (193.9% ROI), manufactured stone veneer (147.9% ROI), and minor kitchen remodels (85.7% ROI). However, the best improvements for YOUR home depend on your budget, timeline, and current property condition.

If you’re wondering what adds value to a home before selling (or simply want to increase your property’s worth) you’re asking the right question. According to the National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact Report, strategic home improvements can return 50-193% of your investment, with some projects adding $15,000-$75,000 in home value.

But here’s what most homeowners get wrong: they chase trends instead of ROI. They renovate based on HGTV inspiration rather than data-driven decisions. And they ignore their home’s current condition score, which dramatically affects which improvements will actually pay off.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve ranked all 25 major home improvement categories by actual return on investment, segmented by budget level, and shown exactly how each impacts your home’s condition score. Plus, you’ll get accurate cost estimates for every project and direct access to vetted contractors who can execute them.

Understanding Home Improvement ROI: The Foundation

Return on investment (ROI) in home improvements measures how much value you add to your home compared to what you spend. If you invest $10,000 in a kitchen remodel, and it adds $8,500 to your home’s resale value, you have an 85% ROI.

However, ROI isn’t the only metric that matters:

• Cost Recouped: The actual dollar amount you’ll recover at resale
• Time to Complete: How quickly can you finish the project
• Appeal Factor: How much the improvement affects buyer interest and selling speed
• Condition Score Impact: How the improvement affects your home’s overall condition rating
• Personal Enjoyment: The value you get from using the improvement before selling

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, the national average ROI across all home improvement projects is 56.6%, but this varies dramatically by project type, location, and existing home condition.

💡 Smart Investor Tip

A 75% ROI on a $50,000 project ($37,500 value add) is better than a 150% ROI on a $1,000 project ($1,500 value add) if you’re purely focused on adding maximum value. But if you’re on a tight budget, high-ROI small projects can collectively make a big impact.

Want to know exactly what improvements will add value to YOUR specific property? Your home’s current condition dramatically affects which projects deliver the best ROI. Get your free PICO Property Score to see your home’s condition rating and personalized improvement recommendations.

How Your Home’s Condition Score Affects What Adds Value

Here’s a crucial insight most homeowners miss: the same improvement adds different value depending on your home’s current condition.

Your PICO Score (ranging from 500-850, like a credit score) measures your home’s overall condition across 10 critical systems: roof, foundation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, windows, siding, insulation, appliances, and structure.

How PICO Score Affects Improvement ROI:

Real Example: Kitchen Remodel ROI by Home Condition

Scenario: $25,000 minor kitchen remodel

• Home with PICO 550: Only adds $8,000 value (32% ROI) – buyers focus on major system issues
• Home with PICO 650: Adds $18,000 value (72% ROI) – cosmetic improvements now matter
• Home with PICO 750: Adds $21,500 value (86% ROI) – premium features stand out

Budget Under $500: High-Impact, Low-Cost Improvements

These improvements deliver outsized returns for minimal investment. Perfect for homeowners on tight budgets or those preparing to list quickly.

1. Fresh Paint (Interior)

Cost Range: $200-$500 (DIY) | Value Add: $1,500-$3,000 | ROI: 300-600%

Timeline: 1-2 weekends | PICO Score Impact: +5-15 points

Fresh neutral paint is the single highest-ROI improvement under $500. Focus on high-visibility areas: living room, kitchen, master bedroom, and entryway. Stick with warm neutrals like “agreeable gray,” “accessible beige,” or “Swiss coffee.”

Why it works: Buyers perceive freshly painted homes as better maintained. Professional paint jobs make homes feel move-in ready and photograph better in listings.

Calculate Exact Painting Costs for Your Home

2. Deep Clean and Declutter

Cost Range: $150-$400 (professional) | Value Add: $2,000-$5,000 | ROI: 500-1,250%

Timeline: 1-3 days | PICO Score Impact: +3-8 points

Professional deep cleaning (including carpets, windows, and often-neglected areas) makes a dramatic difference in perceived home value. Decluttering creates the illusion of more space and better flow.

Pro tip: Remove 50% of furniture from each room, clear all countertops, and eliminate personal items before showings.

3. Hardware Upgrades

Cost Range: $150-$350 | Value Add: $800-$1,500 | ROI: 230-430%

Timeline: 1 day | PICO Score Impact: +2-5 points

Replace dated cabinet hardware, door handles, light switch covers, and faucet fixtures with modern alternatives. Brushed nickel or matte black are universally appealing finishes.

Biggest impact areas: Kitchen cabinet pulls, bathroom faucets, front door hardware, closet door handles.

4. Landscaping Refresh

Cost Range: $250-$500 | Value Add: $1,500-$3,500 | ROI: 300-700%

Timeline: 1-2 days | PICO Score Impact: +5-12 points

Fresh mulch, trimmed bushes, seasonal flowers, and edged walkways create powerful first impressions. Focus on the front yard—it’s the only area every buyer sees.

Quick wins: $150 worth of fresh mulch, $75 of colorful flowers near the entrance, and 4 hours of aggressive trimming and weeding.

5. Lighting Upgrades

Cost Range: $200-$450 | Value Add: $1,000-$2,000 | ROI: 220-400%

Timeline: 1-2 days | PICO Score Impact: +3-7 points

Replace builder-grade light fixtures with modern alternatives. Focus on high-visibility fixtures: dining room chandelier, kitchen pendants, bathroom vanity lights, and entryway statement piece.

Trend alert: Avoid ultra-trendy fixtures. Classic designs in bronze, brass, or black finishes have broader appeal and longer lifespans.

Total Impact (All 5 Projects Under $500):

• Combined Investment: $950-$2,200
• Combined Value Add: $6,800-$15,000
• Combined ROI: 315-682%
• PICO Score Improvement: +18-47 points

$1,000-$5,000 Budget: Mid-Range Value Boosters

These projects require more investment but target high-value, high-visibility areas that significantly affect buyer perception and offers.

6. Garage Door Replacement

Cost Range: $1,800-$4,200 | Value Add: $3,491-$8,145 | ROI: 193.9%

Timeline: 1 day | PICO Score Impact: +8-15 points

The #1 ROI improvement nationwide. A new garage door dramatically improves curb appeal and is visible in every exterior photo. Modern insulated doors also improve energy efficiency.

Best options: Steel carriage-house style with windows, or modern aluminum with frosted glass panels for contemporary homes.

Calculate Your Garage Door Replacement Cost

7. Entry Door Replacement

Cost Range: $2,100-$4,800 | Value Add: $2,835-$6,240 | ROI: 135-160%

Timeline: 4-8 hours | PICO Score Impact: +6-12 points

Your front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior. A premium steel or fiberglass door with sidelights or transom windows creates a grand entrance that buyers remember.

ROI varies by style: Traditional homes benefit from classic six-panel doors, while modern homes see better returns from minimalist designs with glass inserts.

8. Manufactured Stone Veneer

Cost Range: $3,200-$9,500 | Value Add: $4,733-$14,050 | ROI: 147.9%

Timeline: 2-4 days | PICO Score Impact: +10-20 points

Adding stone veneer to a portion of your home’s exterior (typically accent walls, columns, or foundations) creates a high-end appearance at a fraction of full stone’s cost.

Highest impact: Front facade accents, fireplace surrounds (exterior), and foundation-level installation on the street-facing side.

9. Bathroom Refresh

Cost Range: $3,000-$5,000 | Value Add: $3,900-$6,500 | ROI: 130-140%

Timeline: 1 week | PICO Score Impact: +8-18 points

A bathroom “refresh” (not full remodel) includes: new vanity, faucet, lighting, mirror, toilet, and fresh paint. Keep existing tile and layout to control costs.

Best approach: Focus on the master bathroom or main hall bathroom; not all bathrooms equally affect value.

Related: Complete Master Bathroom Remodel Cost Guide

10. Vinyl Window Replacement

Cost Range: $4,200-$7,500 | Value Add: $4,536-$8,625 | ROI: 108-115%

Timeline: 2-3 days | PICO Score Impact: +12-25 points

Energy-efficient vinyl windows improve aesthetics, reduce energy bills, and signal to buyers that the home has been well-maintained. Focus on street-facing windows for maximum curb appeal impact.

ROI tip: Don’t upgrade all windows at once unless necessary. Replace front-of-house and visibly damaged windows first; these affect buyer perception most.

Calculate Window Replacement Costs

11. Exterior Paint

Cost Range: $3,500-$6,800 | Value Add: $4,025-$7,820 | ROI: 115-125%

Timeline: 1 week | PICO Score Impact: +15-30 points

Fresh exterior paint is one of the most transformative improvements. It protects your home from weather damage while dramatically improving curb appeal.

Color strategy: Stick with neutral body colors (gray, beige, white) with contrasting trim. Bold colors appeal to fewer buyers and can delay sales.

Total Impact ($1K-$5K Budget Projects):

• Combined Investment: $17,800-$37,800
• Combined Value Add: $23,520-$51,380
• Combined ROI: 132-136%
• PICO Score Improvement: +59-120 points

$5,000-$15,000 Budget: Major Impact Projects

These substantial improvements target core home systems and major living spaces. They often make the difference between an average offer and a strong one.

12. Minor Kitchen Remodel

Cost Range: $10,000-$26,000 | Value Add: $8,570-$22,280 | ROI: 85.7%

Timeline: 2-3 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +20-40 points

A “minor” kitchen remodel includes: cabinet refacing or painting, new countertops, updated appliances, new hardware, modern lighting, and backsplash. The layout stays the same to control costs.

Highest-ROI elements:

• Cabinet painting or refacing (vs. replacement): 250-400% ROI
• Quartz countertops: 150-200% ROI
• Stainless steel appliances: 80-120% ROI
• Subway tile backsplash: 180-250% ROI

Get Your Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimate

13. Deck Addition (Wood)

Cost Range: $7,500-$15,000 | Value Add: $6,075-$12,600 | ROI: 81-84%

Timeline: 1-2 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +12-22 points

A wood deck (typically 16×20 feet) expands usable living space and appeals to buyers who value outdoor entertaining. Composite decking costs more but requires less maintenance.

Regional variation: Decks have 90%+ ROI in western and southern states but drop to 65-75% in northern climates with shorter outdoor seasons.

14. Midrange Bathroom Remodel

Cost Range: $13,000-$28,000 | Value Add: $10,530-$22,680 | ROI: 81%

Timeline: 2-3 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +18-35 points

A midrange bathroom remodel includes: new tub/shower, tile surround, vanity, toilet, flooring, lighting, and fixtures. The layout typically stays the same.

ROI-maximizing choices: Walk-in showers with frameless glass outperform tub/shower combos. Double vanities in master baths recoup 90-100% of costs.

Related: Small Bathroom Layout Ideas From an Architect

15. Siding Replacement (Vinyl)

Cost Range: $11,000-$20,000 | Value Add: $8,470-$15,800 | ROI: 77-79%

Timeline: 1-2 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +25-45 points

New vinyl siding transforms a home’s exterior, protects against weather damage, and eliminates ongoing paint maintenance. Modern vinyl mimics wood grain convincingly.

Color impact: Light neutral colors (gray, cream, taupe) have the broadest appeal. Avoid bold colors; they limit your buyer pool.

16. Roof Replacement (Asphalt Shingles)

Cost Range: $8,500-$15,000 | Value Add: $6,375-$11,850 | ROI: 75-79%

Timeline: 2-3 days | PICO Score Impact: +30-50 points

A new roof is often a “must-do” rather than optional. Buyers won’t make strong offers on homes needing immediate roof work. While ROI is moderate, it’s essential for marketability.

Timing strategy: If your roof has 5+ years of life remaining, delay replacement. If under 3 years, replace before listing; buyers will demand it anyway.

Related: Complete Roof Replacement Cost Guide

17. HVAC Replacement

Cost Range: $5,500-$12,000 | Value Add: $4,125-$9,240 | ROI: 75-77%

Timeline: 1-2 days | PICO Score Impact: +25-45 points

Like roofs, HVAC systems are foundational. A home inspection revealing a failing HVAC system kills deals or leads to significant price reductions.

Energy efficiency angle: High-efficiency systems (16+ SEER) cost 20-30% more but appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and reduce operating costs.

Get HVAC Replacement Cost Estimate

Total Impact ($5K-$15K Budget Projects):

• Combined Investment: $55,500-$116,000
• Combined Value Add: $44,145-$96,450
• Combined ROI: 79.5-83.2%
• PICO Score Improvement: +130-237 points

$15,000+ Budget: Premium Renovations

These major projects fundamentally transform spaces but have lower ROI percentages. Best for homeowners planning to stay 5+ years or in premium markets where buyers expect luxury features.

18. Major Kitchen Remodel

Cost Range: $40,000-$80,000 | Value Add: $24,000-$52,000 | ROI: 60-65%

Timeline: 6-10 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +35-60 points

A major kitchen remodel involves new cabinets, premium countertops, high-end appliances, new flooring, potential layout changes, and sometimes expanding the footprint.

When it makes sense: Homes in competitive markets ($500K+), severely dated kitchens, or for homeowners planning extended residency who’ll enjoy the space.

ROI-killing mistakes: Over-improvement for the neighborhood, ultra-custom features, commercial-grade appliances most buyers won’t use.

Calculate Major Kitchen Remodel Costs

19. Master Suite Addition

Cost Range: $90,000-$200,000 | Value Add: $54,000-$130,000 | ROI: 60-65%

Timeline: 3-5 months | PICO Score Impact: +40-70 points

Adding a master suite (bedroom + bathroom) increases square footage and bedroom count: two of the most valuable metrics in real estate.

Best scenarios: Homes with only one bathroom, 3-bedroom homes in 4-bedroom neighborhoods, or when converting underutilized space (bonus room, garage).

20. Basement Remodel

Cost Range: $25,000-$75,000 | Value Add: $15,000-$48,750 | ROI: 60-65%

Timeline: 4-8 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +20-45 points

Converting unfinished basement space into livable area (family room, bedroom, bathroom, home office) dramatically increases functional square footage.

ROI varies significantly: Northern markets (need for indoor space) see 70-80% ROI. Southern markets (year-round outdoor access) see 50-60% ROI.

Get Basement Remodel Cost Estimate

21. Room Addition

Cost Range: $50,000-$150,000 | Value Add: $30,000-$97,500 | ROI: 60-65%

Timeline: 2-4 months | PICO Score Impact: +30-60 points

Adding square footage through room additions (bedroom, office, sunroom) works best when your home is undersized compared to neighborhood averages.

Strategic approach: Adding a bedroom to a 2-bedroom home in a 3-bedroom neighborhood returns 75-85%. Adding a 5th bedroom to a 4-bedroom home? Only 45-55%.

Complete guide: Room Addition Costs by Type

22. Upscale Bathroom Remodel

Cost Range: $45,000-$95,000 | Value Add: $24,750-$54,150 | ROI: 55-57%

Timeline: 4-6 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +25-50 points

Luxury master bathroom remodels include premium tile, spa-like fixtures, heated floors, high-end vanities, and designer finishes.

Reality check: Most buyers prefer updated bathrooms but won’t pay dollar-for-dollar for ultra-luxury features like steam showers or heated towel racks.

23. Sunroom Addition

Cost Range: $25,000-$85,000 | Value Add: $13,750-$46,750 | ROI: 55%

Timeline: 3-6 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +15-35 points

Four-season sunrooms expand living space and create desirable features, but they’re expensive per square foot and may not count toward appraised square footage.

Best alternative: Converting existing space or building a screened porch delivers similar benefits at half the cost.

24. Swimming Pool Installation

Cost Range: $35,000-$100,000 | Value Add: $17,500-$55,000 | ROI: 50-55%

Timeline: 4-8 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +10-25 points (varies)

Pools are highly polarizing: they attract some buyers and deter others (families with young children, buyers who don’t want maintenance).

Regional exceptions: Pools in Arizona, Florida, and Southern California return 65-80% because they’re expected amenities. In northern states? 35-45%.

25. Home Office Addition

Cost Range: $15,000-$45,000 | Value Add: $8,250-$24,750 | ROI: 55%

Timeline: 2-4 weeks | PICO Score Impact: +8-20 points

Post-pandemic, dedicated home office spaces increased in value, but ROI remains moderate because most buyers can convert existing rooms.

Better approach: Create a flexible “bonus room” that works as an office, guest room, or playroom, appeals to more buyers.

Total Impact ($15K+ Budget Projects):

• Combined Investment: $325,000-$730,000
• Combined Value Add: $187,250-$408,900
• Combined ROI: 56-60%
• PICO Score Improvement: +183-365 points

Complete ROI Rankings: All 25 Improvements

Here are all 25 home improvements ranked from highest to lowest ROI:

🎯 Your Personalized Improvement Plan

The improvements above are ranked by AVERAGE ROI, but YOUR specific home condition determines which projects deliver maximum value for you.

Get your free PICO Property Score and receive a custom improvement priority list based on your home’s actual condition, not generic averages.

Regional Cost and Value Variations

Home improvement costs and ROI vary dramatically by region. A $25,000 kitchen remodel in Louisville, Kentucky, delivers different value than the same project in San Francisco.

Cost Variation by Region (Using Kitchen Remodel as Example)

Project-Specific Regional Winners

Outdoor Projects (Decks, Patios, Pools):

• Best ROI: Arizona, Florida, Southern California (70-90%)
• Worst ROI: Minnesota, Montana, Maine (45-60%)

Energy Efficiency (Windows, Insulation, HVAC):

• Best ROI: Northern states with extreme weather (85-95%)
• Worst ROI: Mild climates like San Diego (60-70%)

Basement Finishing:

• Best ROI: Midwest and Northeast (75-85%)
• Worst ROI: South and Southwest, where basements are rare (45-55%)

Want exact costs for YOUR location? Use our Cost Estimator to get location-specific pricing for any project; it factors in local labor rates, permit costs, and material availability.

When to Make Improvements: Timing Strategy

WHEN you make improvements can be as important as WHICH improvements you make.

Pre-Sale Improvement Timeline

6+ Months Before Listing:

• Major projects: Kitchen remodels, bathroom additions, room additions
• System replacements: Roof, HVAC, siding
• Why: Time to enjoy improvements, finish permits, let projects “settle.”

3-6 Months Before Listing:

• Medium projects: Bathroom remodels, deck additions, flooring
• Exterior work: Paint, windows, landscaping overhaul
• Why: Noticeable but not disruptive to pre-sale prep

1-3 Months Before Listing:

• Quick-impact projects: Interior paint, hardware updates, lighting
• Repairs: Fix visible issues, patch, and paint
• Why: Fresh and move-in ready without cutting into selling season

2-4 Weeks Before Listing:

• Finishing touches: Deep clean, landscaping refresh, declutter
• Staging prep: Minor repairs, final touch-ups
• Why: Maximum impact, no time for wear

Seasonal Timing Considerations

Spring (March-May):

• Best for: Exterior projects (roofing, siding, decks, landscaping)
• Peak selling season: Complete before mid-April
• Contractor availability: Book 6-8 weeks ahead

Summer (June-August):

• Best for: Major interior renovations while living elsewhere
• Outdoor projects can face heat delays
• Consider fall listing to avoid competing with peak inventory

Fall (September-November):

• Best for: Interior projects, HVAC work, window replacement
• Second-best selling season: Complete by early October
• Better contractor availability and pricing

Winter (December-February):

• Best for: Planning, permitting, interior work
• Lowest contractor rates (20-30% discounts possible)
• Weather limits exterior projects in most regions

Smart Timing Example: Maximizing ROI

Goal: Sell home in June for maximum price

Timeline:

• December-January: Get PICO Score, plan improvements, get quotes (off-season discounts)
• February: Start major interior work (kitchen, bathrooms) – save 15-25% on labor
• March: Complete interior work, start exterior (paint, landscaping, repairs)
• April: Final touches (hardware, lighting, staging prep)
• May 1-15: Deep clean, professional photos, list by mid-May
• Result: Peak-season listing with freshly completed improvements, 20% lower project costs

5 Costly Mistakes That Destroy ROI

Avoid these common errors that turn profitable improvements into money losers:

Mistake #1: Over-Improving for Your Neighborhood

The error: Installing a $75,000 gourmet kitchen in a neighborhood where homes max out at $350,000.

The result: You might recoup $30,000-$45,000 (40-60% ROI) because buyers won’t pay $450,000 for a home in a $350K neighborhood, regardless of your kitchen.

The fix: Match neighborhood standards plus 10-15%. Look at recently sold comparable homes and stay within their range.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Critical Systems for Cosmetic Upgrades

The error: Installing a $30,000 pool while your 20-year-old HVAC system is failing.

The result: Home inspections reveal system failures, buyers demand a $15,000 credit or walk away, and your pool doesn’t make up the difference.

The fix: Check your PICO Score first. Fix critical systems (roof, HVAC, foundation, electrical, plumbing) before cosmetic improvements.

Mistake #3: Highly Personal or Trendy Choices

The error: Bold colored cabinets, ultra-modern when the neighborhood is traditional, converting bedrooms to specialized spaces.

The result: You appeal to 20% of buyers instead of 80%, leading to longer time on market and lower offers.

The fix: Stick with neutral, timeless designs. Save personality for paint colors and décor you can change before selling.

Mistake #4: DIY Projects Beyond Your Skill Level

The error: Attempting electrical, plumbing, or structural work without proper experience.

The result: Poor workmanship visible to buyers and inspectors, potential safety issues, possible need to hire professionals to fix your work (2x the cost).

The fix: DIY cosmetic work (painting, hardware, landscaping). Hire licensed professionals for technical systems. Find vetted contractors here.

Mistake #5: Starting Projects You Can’t Finish

The error: Beginning a bathroom remodel, running out of budget, and leaving with unfinished work.

The result: Incomplete projects DECREASE value by 20-40%. Buyers see risk, not potential, and discount accordingly.

The fix: Get detailed estimates BEFORE starting. Add 20% buffer for unexpected costs. Complete projects fully or don’t start them.

🔍 Free Home Improvement Assessment

Avoid these mistakes entirely: Get your PICO Property Score and receive a custom improvement priority list ranked by ROI potential for YOUR specific home. Know exactly which projects to tackle and which to skip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What home improvement adds the most value?

Fresh interior paint delivers the highest ROI (300-600%) for cost, while garage door replacement (193.9% ROI) leads among structural improvements. However, the best improvement for YOUR home depends on the current condition; fix critical systems before cosmetic upgrades.

What increases home value the most?

Adding square footage (room additions, finished basements) and increasing bedroom/bathroom count add the most absolute value ($30,000-$130,000), though ROI is moderate (60-65%). For the highest ROI with significant value impact, focus on minor kitchen remodels ($8,500-$22,000 value add at 85.7% ROI).

Is it worth remodeling a home before selling?

Yes, but strategically. Focus on high-ROI improvements (75%+ return) like garage doors, entry doors, paint, and minor kitchen/bath updates. Avoid major renovations with 50-65% ROI unless they’re fixing critical issues that would kill deals.

What adds the most value to a home when selling?

The improvements that add most value when selling are: (1) Fresh paint, (2) Updated kitchens and bathrooms, (3) Enhanced curb appeal (landscaping, doors, garage), (4) Functional major systems (roof, HVAC), and (5) Neutral, move-in-ready condition.

What is the 5% rule in real estate?

The 5% rule suggests spending no more than 5% of your home’s value on improvements unless you’re fixing critical issues. For a $400,000 home, that’s $20,000 in improvements before diminishing returns kick in, unless you’re addressing deal-killer problems.

Do kitchen remodels increase home value?

Yes. Minor kitchen remodels (cabinet refacing, new countertops, updated appliances) return 85.7% at a $10,000-$26,000 investment. Major remodels (full cabinet replacement, layout changes) return 60-65% at a $40,000-$80,000 cost. Minor remodels offer better ROI.

What should you not fix when selling a house?

Don’t fix: (1) Personal taste items, (2) Minor cosmetic flaws (small wall dings), (3) Landscaping beyond cleaning/mowing, (4) Unpermitted additions, (5) Over-improvements beyond neighborhood standards. Focus on necessary repairs and high-ROI updates.

Does a new HVAC system increase home value?

New HVAC systems add $4,125-$9,240 in value at 75-77% ROI. While ROI is moderate, failing HVAC systems kill deals or lead to price reductions exceeding replacement costs. Replace systems with less than 3 years remaining lifespan.

How much value does a finished basement add?

Finished basements add $15,000-$48,750 in value (60-65% ROI) depending on quality and regional factors. Northern climates see higher returns (70-80%) than southern markets (50-60%). Best when converting unusable space to functional living areas.

What exterior improvements add the most value?

Top exterior improvements by ROI: (1) Garage door replacement (193.9%), (2) Manufactured stone veneer (147.9%), (3) Entry door replacement (135-160%), (4) Exterior paint (115-125%), and (5) Landscaping refresh (300-700% on small budgets).

Your Next Steps: Creating Your Custom Improvement Plan

You now know which 25 home improvements add the most value, ranked by ROI from 50% to 600%. But here’s the truth: generic rankings don’t determine YOUR best improvements, your home’s specific condition does.

A homeowner with a PICO Score of 650 should prioritize differently from one with a score of 780. The same $25,000 kitchen remodel delivers 86% ROI in one home and 32% in another, purely based on existing condition and neighborhood context.

Your Personalized Action Plan (3 Steps):

Step 1: Know Your Home’s Condition

Get your free PICO Property Score (takes 2 minutes). You’ll receive:

• Your home’s condition score (500-850 range)
• Component-level ratings (roof, HVAC, etc.)
• Custom improvement priority list
• Estimated ROI for each recommended project

Step 2: Get Accurate Cost Estimates

Use our Cost Estimator for your top 3 priority projects. You’ll get:

• Location-specific pricing (adjusts for your market)
• Cost ranges by project scope
• Timeline expectations
• ROI projections based on local comps

Step 3: Find Vetted Contractors

Search our contractor database for licensed, insured professionals. Every contractor is verified through:

• License validation (active and current)
• Insurance verification
• Customer reviews and ratings
• Project portfolio and specializations

Ready to Maximize Your Home’s Value?

Stop guessing which improvements will pay off. Start with data.

Written by Billy Guteng. January 15, 2026

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.

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