Where to Spend Your Money: Which Part of My Home Provides the Most ROI
Lynae Malchus

ROI = Return On Investment. Projects with a higher ROI give you a higher “return.”

Knowing where to spend your money is key to

maximizing your investment. Not all home construction projects are created

equal—some offer a strong return on investment (ROI), while others may not add as

much value as you think.



Below are the areas of your home where you can deliver the highest ROI, based on

national data and remodeling trends.

1. Quality Kitchen

Average ROI: 70%–80%

A full gourmet kitchen can be expensive, but a quality kitchen can be less than you think, and often gives you more bang for your buck. Professional cabinets, quality appliances with energy-efficient models, quartz or stone countertops, and interesting lighting can drastically modernize your kitchen without breaking the bank.

Top upgrades include:

  • Professionally constructed and designed cabinetry
  • Quartz or stone countertops
  • Energy-efficient appliances
  • Modern fixtures and lighting

2. Spa-style Bathroom

Average ROI: 60%–70%

Bathrooms are essential spaces that can sway a buyer’s opinion. Simple features—like modern vanities and tile, updated fixtures, a soaking tub to a walk-in tiled shower—can go a long way.

Top upgrades:

  • Attractive tile flooring and showers
  • Contemporary vanities and sinks
  • Low-flow toilets and fixtures
  • Bright, clean lighting

3. Curb Appeal Enhancements

Average ROI: 80%–100%

First impressions matter. Investing in your home’s exterior not only improves its look but also boosts its resale potential.

Top curb appeal projects:

  • Contemporary garage door (up to 100% ROI!)
  • Attractive color schemes
  • Exterior stone or brick, or fiber-cement siding
  • Landscaping (trimmed hedges, new sod, fresh mulch)
  • A statement entry door (steel or fiberglass)

4. Energy Efficiency Features

Average ROI: 60%–90%

Today’s buyers are energy-conscious. Making your home more efficient saves you money, giving it more value, and could make it more attractive to future buyers. Smart energy upgrades:

  • Attic insulation (ROI up to 83%)
  • Energy-efficient windows
  • Smart thermostat installation 
  • Improving HVAC efficiency

5. Contemporary Flooring

Average ROI: 70%–80%

Floors take a beating—and they’re one of the first things people notice. Carpet is less expensive but can look dated. Tile with hardwood or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can significantly enhance your home’s appeal.


Best choices:

  • Hardwood or engineered wood floors
  • Waterproof luxury vinyl plank
  • Modern tile in kitchens and bathrooms

6. Exterior Deck or Patio

Average ROI: 65%–75%

Outdoor living has become more important than ever. Adding a deck, patio, or pergola creates functional space and adds resale appeal.

Ideas to consider:

  • Wood or composite decking
  • Covered patio area
  • Outdoor lighting and seating areas


7. Basement Finishing

Average ROI: 65%–75%

Finishing your basement adds usable square footage—perfect for:

  • a guest suite
  • home office
  • gym
  • media room

It’s one of the best ways to increase your home’s livable space without building out.
Projects with Lower ROI (Use with Caution)
  • High-end luxury kitchen (ROI drops to ~50–60%)
  • Swimming pools (ROI varies widely by region)
  • Solar panels (long-term energy savings, but ROI varies)
  • Sunrooms (ROI approx. 45%–55%)
  • Extensive Custom Features (ROI: Highly Variable - often under 50%)
    • Examples: built-in aquariums, indoor fountains, themed or novelty rooms, home theaters with fixed seating, anything viewed as “too personal.”

Final Thoughts
If you’re building with value in mind, stick to high-impact, cost-effective features and fixtures that appeal to a wide range of buyers. Spend where it will improve your lifestyle—but know what may (or may not) pay off down the road. Aim for key areas, focus on curb appeal, and for functional, energy-efficient upgrades that improve the way your home looks and feels.

Ready to Maximize Your Home’s ROI?
At Agenda Design+Build, we help homeowners in Milford, Beaver, and beyond create beautiful, functional spaces that deliver lasting value. Whether you’re planning a new build, a remodel, or strategic upgrades, we’ll guide you on where to invest for the biggest return—both financially and in day-to-day enjoyment. Let’s start building your home’s value today—contact us to schedule your consultation.

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