Home renovations can get expensive quickly, especially when homeowners choose to undertake more than one large project at the same time. Given how much it costs to update a kitchen, remodel a bathroom, or even replace a garage door, it’s important to know what kind of return each potential renovation might offer, both financially and practically. Instead of wondering whether they’re investing wisely, homeowners can read on to find out about the top five best-value home renovation ideas and what makes them worth the money.
1. Replacement Windows
Replacing a home’s windows may not be the most glamorous renovation, but it can be one of the best investments in a family’s comfort and a home’s future. Old, leaky windows allow unacceptable amounts of heat transfer, creating uncomfortable drafts and forcing homeowners to overspend on monthly heating and cooling bills. Homeowners considering new windows should be sure to seek out energy-efficient options if they want to make the most of this investment.
2. New Garage Doors
Upgrading a home’s garage door may not seem like much of an improvement, but in the eyes of future buyers, it may be. After the windows and entry door, the garage door is often one of the first things people see when approaching a home. If it’s damaged, old, or simply outdated, upgrading to a newer model could offer a fantastic return on investment (ROI).
3. Adding Stone Veneer
Manufactured stone veneers have been growing in popularity lately not just because they can lend a touch of elegance and luxury to a home’s exterior but also because they provide an excellent ROI. Some homeowners replace continuous bands of siding with manufactured stone veneer, while others focus exclusively on the front of the home.
Entryways are also popular points for placing faux-stone veneers to maximize curb appeal. Just keep in mind that this product requires a substantial moisture barrier to prevent water infiltration.
4. Minor Kitchen Remodels
Kitchens are some of the most commonly remodeled rooms in America. Unfortunately, not all homeowners realize that jumping on board with this trend only makes financial sense if they keep their remodels relatively modest.
Tearing out and replacing the entire kitchen won’t offer a very good ROI, but replacing appliances, refinishing cabinets, or adding new flooring can make a big difference in a kitchen’s appearance and usability. Most families don’t mind that kitchen remodels provide a lower ROI than new garage doors or replacement windows because they will be able to take full advantage of the newly updated space themselves.
5. Radiant Heating
Adding radiant heating is an often-overlooked home improvement, but it shouldn’t be. The project may require tearing out the existing flooring, but it will offer a number of benefits once completed. Radiant floor heating can add a touch of luxury on cold mornings, even in mild climates.
Unlike radiators and forced-air heating systems, radiant floor heating is almost completely silent, and it’s far more energy efficient than the alternatives. Some homeowners install radiant heating only in bathrooms, while others think big and complete whole-house projects.
It’s Time to Live a Little Better
Even if a home renovation doesn’t provide the best possible ROI, as with kitchen remodels, it may still be worth the money if it improves the residents’ comfort and quality of life. Try to consider both the potential ROI and the current benefits of a renovation project before getting started.
