2026 Home Design Trends - What Buyers Are Looking For Right Now
Home Improvement

2026 Home Design Trends That Attract Home Buyers

After a decade of cool grays, crisp whites, and spaces that looked more like showrooms than homes, buyers have changed what they’re looking for. Call it quiet luxury — the idea that richness comes from depth, craft, and intention rather than flash and excess. It’s not maximalism. It’s a shift toward spaces that feel like somewhere you’d actually want to live.

That shift is showing up in buyer data, listing descriptions, and design reports across the board. Here’s what it looks like in practice — and what it means if you’re thinking about selling your home.

What Trends Are In

 

Color Is Back — And It’s Warmer Than You Think

Warm, inviting living room with deep emerald green walls, built-in shelving, a white fireplace mantel, bamboo accent chairs, a cream sofa with botanical pillows, and a round wood coffee table. Natural textures, brass accents, layered decor, and soft daylight create an elegant, earthy atmosphere with a cozy modern vintage feel.

The all-gray interior isn’t just tired. Buyers have moved on. The biggest shift in Zillow listing descriptions over the last year has been a surge in “color drenching” — coating walls, ceilings, and trim in a single immersive hue — up 149% year over year.1

The direction is consistent across paint brands and design reports: warm beiges, caramels, terra cotta, sage green, and soft navy. A mix of ’70s sunbaked tones and calming naturals.3

The psychology behind it makes sense. Buyers are increasingly seeking homes that feel like a sanctuary, not a showroom, and warm cohesive color is one of the fastest ways to create that.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, this has a practical implication: a single well-chosen paint refresh can dramatically change how a space photographs and how it feels at first walk-through.

The Art Deco Revival: Details That Stop the Scroll

A luxurious Art Deco Revival dining room rendered in a cinematic architectural style. The space features a symmetrical layout with a long glossy black dining table surrounded by deep emerald velvet chairs with gold accents. Geometric wall panels, polished brass details, and a dramatic tiered chandelier create a sophisticated 2026-inspired aesthetic. Soft ambient lighting highlights the rich textures of marble flooring, metallic finishes, and dark wood tones, while large windows and decorative screens add depth and elegance to the interior scene.

Buyers are actively looking for character — and that’s showing up clearly in what design platforms are tracking. Houzz flagged the Art Deco revival as one of the defining trends of 2026, with searches for Art Deco interiors up 22% year over year.2

Think chevron patterns, brass accents, jewel tones, curves, arches, and scalloped edges that soften spaces and add visual depth. Listing mentions of “artisan craftsmanship” are up 21% and “vintage accents” up 17%.1

The good news is this doesn’t require a gut renovation. Arched doorways, a curved kitchen island, rounded furniture silhouettes, and detailed millwork can all deliver that effect. It’s about adding one or two moments of character — not redoing everything.

Surfaces and Materials That Make a Statement

Alt Text: A luxurious modern kitchen featuring a dramatic full-height quartzite backsplash and waterfall island with soft sweeping gray and beige veining. The space is layered with organic textures, including warm limewash plaster walls and sculpted architectural details that glow in natural light. Brushed brass pendant lights and faucet are paired with matte black cabinetry and subtle nickel accents, creating a sophisticated mixed-metals aesthetic. The kitchen includes sleek black bar stools, integrated appliances, and curated decorative pottery and greenery, resulting in a warm, high-end architectural interior with an elegant, editorial feel.

Countertops and backsplashes are no longer meant to blend in. Natural stone — quartzite, marble, and travertine with soft sweeping veining — is being used as a focal point rather than a background. Full-height backsplashes and dramatic stone applications create depth and warmth that photographs beautifully.2

Organic texture is showing up everywhere alongside it: plaster and limewash walls, sculpted surfaces, three-dimensional materials that shift with changing light.

Layered metals — brushed brass paired with matte black and nickel — signal a more evolved, curated take on the mixed-metals trend that’s been building for a few years. The goal is intentional, not matched. Each finish feels chosen.

The Kitchen Is Getting Personal

Bright, modern Scandinavian-inspired kitchen with warm light oak cabinetry, white marble countertops and backsplash, and soft ambient lighting. A large waterfall-edge island sits at the center with textured white bar stools featuring striped leather backs. Brass hardware and pendant lighting add warmth, while open floating shelves, natural wood flooring, and minimalist decor create an airy, elegant atmosphere.

Design professionals are nearly unanimous that the all-white kitchen has run its course.7,10 What’s replacing it isn’t one look — it’s the absence of a default.

Warm neutrals, earth tones, and wood-grain cabinetry are taking over from painted finishes, and the transitional style has settled in as the most popular direction, with the farmhouse kitchen continuing to lose ground it’s unlikely to recover.5

The bigger shift underneath all of it is personalization. Buyers want to see a kitchen that feels considered — not one that played it safe.

A work-in pantry, an unexpected cabinet color, a stone backsplash that runs floor to ceiling: these are the details that make a kitchen feel like it belongs to someone, which turns out to be exactly what buyers are looking for.

Open Concept Grew Up

Open floor plans aren’t going away — but buyers no longer want an undifferentiated box. Buyer preferences have shifted toward layouts that offer both flow and definition — spaces that feel connected but serve a clear purpose.4

What’s rising is the semi-closed floor plan: subtle architectural separation between the kitchen, dining room, and living areas that maintains connection while creating intimacy. The flexibility of how a home’s space is organized now matters more to buyers than the raw square footage it contains.12

Remote work is a big part of why. When your home is also your office, privacy has real value. Dedicated home offices are consistently one of the most requested features this year, and mentions of “reading nooks” — quiet, defined personal spaces — are up 48% in Zillow listing descriptions.1

If you’re thinking about selling and you have a defined dining room, a separate office, or distinct living zones, don’t apologize for them. Stage and describe each space as intentional. Buyers are looking for purpose, not just square footage.

Homes That Are Designed to Feel Good

A luxurious modern bathroom with rich walnut wood flooring, walls, and ceiling accents, featuring a large white freestanding soaking tub in the foreground. The spa-inspired space includes a glass walk-in shower with a built-in wooden bench, warm recessed lighting, textured stone shelving, black-framed frosted glass door, and dark plantation shutters. Minimal décor, rolled towels, and potted greenery create a warm, tranquil, high-end retreat atmosphere.

One of the quieter shifts in how buyers evaluate homes is the move toward what designers call wellness design — the idea that a home’s layout and materials should actively support how you feel in it, not just how it looks.

It’s less about a single feature and more about an overall sensibility: does this space help you rest, focus, and decompress, or does it just look good in photos?

That sensibility is showing up in listing language in measurable ways — wellness mentions are up 33% year over year, and spa-inspired bathrooms have climbed 22%.1,8 But the concept has expanded well past the primary bath.

Biophilic design — bringing in natural light, organic materials, living plants, and visual connections to the outdoors — has become a core consideration because it addresses the same underlying need: buyers want to feel better in their homes.9

So does circadian lighting that shifts with the time of day, and dedicated spaces designed specifically for quiet — a reading corner, a window seat, a nook that actually gets used.

These aren’t luxury add-ons anymore. They’re showing up in mainstream listings because people are prioritizing how their home makes them feel on a Tuesday afternoon, not just how it presents at a party.

Resilient and Efficient Homes: The Practical Side of 2026 Design

Climate reality is showing up in listing data in a way that’s hard to ignore. Features like flood protection, fire-resistant landscaping, and whole-home battery systems are all climbing fast — and 86% of buyers now say it’s very important that a home be “climate-proof.”1

Zero-energy-ready homes have surged 70% in Zillow listing mentions, with whole-home batteries up 40% and EV charging up 25%.1

Energy efficiency is part of the same conversation. Buyers are evaluating solar readiness, EV chargers, and efficient HVAC systems the same way they evaluate a kitchen renovation — as a financial consideration, not just an environmental one.

Utility costs, insurability, and long-term resilience are all factored in. If you’re thinking about selling and you have any of these features, make sure they’re documented clearly in your listing. Buyers are actively reading for this language, and homes that speak to it stand out.

What Trends Are Out

Design trends don’t just tell you what to add — they tell you what to address before you list. A few things buyers have clearly moved past:

  • All-gray everything. Functional for a decade, now forgettable. Buyer sentiment has shifted clearly away from both cool gray and stark white as default palettes. Sterile, clinical spaces read as dated now, not clean.2,3
  • The overdone farmhouse look. The aesthetic isn’t dead, but the version heavy on purely decorative elements — shiplap for the sake of shiplap, barn doors on every opening — has peaked. What’s replacing it is a warmer, more grounded approach leaning on authentic materials over surface-level styling.
  • Themed bonus rooms. “Man cave,” dedicated wine rooms, home theaters with no other use — buyers want rooms that flex, not rooms that commit to a single identity. Spaces that can’t be repurposed read as liabilities now, not amenities.
  • Two-story foyers. They create a striking visual, but the trade-offs have caught up with them. NAHB data shows 32% of buyers are likely to reject a home with a two-story foyer outright, while only 13% consider it a must-have.6 The energy inefficiency, heat imbalance, and lost usable square footage are no longer worth the entrance moment.
  • Matched-finish everything. Coordinating every fixture, cabinet pull, and faucet to a single metal finish now reads as a 2015 renovation. The shift is toward intentionally layered metals — brushed brass, matte black, and nickel — that feel collected over time rather than sourced from the same catalog page.
  • Open shelving as a kitchen default. What looked fresh a few years ago now reads as high-maintenance and visually noisy to a lot of buyers. The enthusiasm for it has cooled significantly, and the backlash is real enough that agents are recommending sellers address it before listing.11
  • Safe “greige” tile that disappears into the background. Surfaces are meant to make a statement now, not blend in. Full-height backsplashes, dramatic stone, and layered finishes have replaced the disappearing neutral as the standard expectation in well-presented kitchens and baths.
  • Maximalism for resale. Rich, layered, highly personal spaces can be genuinely beautiful to live in — but they’re difficult to sell. Buyers need to be able to see themselves in a space. Heavy personalization, bold collections, and visually dense rooms make that harder, which tends to show up in longer days on market and more negotiated offers.

What Changes and What You Leave Alone

Ken and Libby Guthrie, Guthrie Group Homes, Knoxville TN Real Estate
Ken and Libby Guthrie, Guthrie Group Homes, Knoxville TN Real Estate

Of course, Guthrie Group Homes is still in! Those other agents are out!

However, not every item on this list requires a contractor. A $500–$2,000 refresh can meaningfully shift how a home is perceived: paint in a warm current tone, swapping out dated light fixtures, updating hardware from chrome to brushed brass or matte black, adding a limewash accent wall in a key space.

These are cosmetic moves — but they change how a home feels, and that feeling is what drives buyer interest from the very first look.

That first look is doing more work than most sellers realize. Warm, textured, layered spaces photograph better than stark white minimalist ones — and since most buyers have already formed a strong impression before they ever step inside, the visual presentation of your home directly affects how fast it moves and what kind of offers it generates.

Buyers are deciding in seconds. The goal is to design for the feeling they get at first scroll — not the trend you were following three years ago.

If you’re thinking about preparing your home to sell and want to know which updates are worth making in your specific price range and neighborhood, reach out. That’s exactly the kind of conversation that can make a real difference in your results.

Sources

  1. Zillow – Spotted on Zillow: Six Home Trends To Follow in 2026 – https://www.zillow.com/learn/hottest-home-trends/
  2. Houzz – Sneak Peek: Houzz Reveals 11 of the Top Home Design Predictions for 2026 – https://pro.houzz.com/pro-learn/blog/sneak-peek-houzz-reveals-11-of-the-top-home-design-predictions-for-2026
  3. Axios – 2026 home design trends: Zillow and others reveal picks – https://www.axios.com/2025/12/27/trending-home-design-feature-2026
  4. RoylinSells – Are Open Floor Plans Still Popular in Today’s Housing Market? – https://roylinsells.com/2026/03/06/are-open-floor-plans-still-popular-2026/
  5. Houzz – 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study – https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2025-us-houzz-kitchen-trends-study-stsetivw-vs~175748139
  6. NAHB – Two-Story Foyer Trend Stabilizes in 2024 – https://eyeonhousing.org/2025/10/two-story-foyer-trend-stabilize-in-2024/
  7. Fixr – Kitchen Design Trends Report 2026 – https://www.fixr.com/trends/kitchen-design
  8. Fixr – Bathroom Design Trends Report 2026 – https://www.fixr.com/trends/bathroom-design
  9. Tami Faulkner Design – Top Custom Home Design Trend 2026 – https://www.tamifaulknerdesign.com/blog/top-custom-home-design-trend-2026
  10. NKBA – 2026 Design Trends Report – https://nkba.org/research/trends/
  11. GoBankingRates – 6 Key Design Trends That Are Make-or-Break for Homebuyers in 2026 – https://www.gobankingrates.com/investing/real-estate/key-design-trends-make-or-break-for-homebuyers-in-2026/
  12. BHGRE – 2026 Design Trends Moving Real Estate – https://www.bhgre.com/better-homes-and-gardens-real-estate-blog/
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10 Hidden Home Maintenance Tasks
Home Improvement

10 Hidden Home Maintenance Tasks That Could Save You Thousands

As a homeowner, you’re likely diligent about the basics—mowing the lawn, touching up paint, and cleaning regularly. Right? 😁

But what about the critical home maintenance tasks you don’t see every day?

Research shows that home maintenance frequently takes a backseat, even with the best intentions.

In fact, a recent survey found that 60% of homeowners have postponed necessary maintenance or repairs, while 40% admit to paying for a major home repair that could have been avoided with better upkeep.1

Still, it’s not just about avoiding costly emergencies—it’s also about maximizing the return on your biggest investment. According to research by Thumbtack, homeowners who do put in the extra care are rewarded: Well-maintained homes sell for an average of 10% more.2

While you may not have every item on our list, you’re bound to have plently of them that you should take care of.

Let’s explore 10 often overlooked home maintenance tasks and how they can save you thousands in long-term costs.

1. Gutter Cleaning: Your First Line of Protection

Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, attic, or siding. Left unchecked, this can lead to foundation damage, rot, and even flooding.

The real cost of neglect: While professional gutter cleaning averages $162 nationally (up to $390 for multi-story homes), water damage repair costs can add up—averaging $5,100 for foundation damage and $4,300 for a flooded basement.3,4,5

 Your action plan:

  • Clean gutters at least twice annually—in spring and fall.
  • Use a gutter scoop or hose to remove debris.
  • Consider investing in gutter guards to reduce future clogs.

This small task prevents major structural damage and prolongs the life of your home’s exterior.

2. HVAC Filter Replacement: Small Task, Major Impact

A dirty HVAC filter reduces airflow, causes your system to work harder, and increases energy use. It can also lead to health concerns from trapped contaminants circulating in your home’s air.6

The hidden costs: A neglected filter can lead to clamped-up coils, furnace failures, and sometimes a complete system replacement costing $4,000-$12,000.6 😱

 Your maintenance routine:

  • Replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on filter type, usage, and the number of pets in your home.
  • Opt for MERV 8–13 filters for efficiency and air quality balance.7
  • Schedule full-system annual servicing ($175–$550) to catch hidden issues early.8

This simple task saves on energy bills (15-20% according to the Department of Energy) and extends your HVAC system’s lifespan.8

3. Water Heater Flushing: Preventing Sediment Buildup

Over time, sediment accumulates in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Left unchecked, this buildup can cause leaks or complete tank failure.

 The financial reality: Regular flushing prevents early replacement and may be required to maintain your water heater’s warranty.9  You can do it yourself or hire a professional for around $160.10

 Your annual process:

  • Turn off power and water supply to the unit
  • Attach a hose to the drain valve and empty the tank completely
  • Check your anode rod; it may need to be replaced every 3–5 years.

This simple routine extends your water heater’s life and preserves energy efficiency.

4. Dryer Vent Cleaning: A Critical Safety Task

Lint buildup in dryer vents doesn’t just reduce drying efficiency—it’s one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S.11 They also force your dryer to work harder and longer for each load.

 The cost factor: Professional dryer vent cleaning costs about $144 nationwide, while fire-related damage can run into the tens of thousands.12

 Your safety protocol:

  • Clean dryer vents every six months using a brush kit, or call in a professional.
  • Replace plastic ducts with rigid metal ones, which resist lint clogs.
  • Monitor drying times—longer than usual may signal a blockage.

This potentially life-saving task improves both safety and appliance efficiency. 

5. Refrigerator Coil Cleaning: The 35% Energy Drain

Your refrigerator’s coils help expel heat. When coated in dust, they force the compressor to work harder, increasing energy bills and shortening appliance lifespan.

The efficiency impact: Dirty coils can increase energy use by up to 35% and, over time, can lead to costly repairs or replacement.13

 Your simple solution:

  • Check your manufacturer’s guidelines; many recommend cleaning every six months.
  • Locate coils behind or at the bottom of the unit and use a vacuum or coil brush to remove dust and debris.
  • Keep condenser fan areas unobstructed.
  • It is generally not recommended to keep items on top of a refrigerator either. The space above the fridge is designed for ventilation and heat dissipation, and placing items there can interfere with these functions, potentially causing the refrigerator to work harder, overheat, and even shorten its lifespan

This $0 DIY task can trim your electricity bill, and prevent early breakdown.

6. Garage Door Lubrication: Prevents Costly Repairs

A squeaky garage door means friction—and friction leads to wear on moving parts, costly spring damage, and failed openers.

The mechanical reality: A new garage door opener can cost between $350-$1000 installed, but a can of lubricant only costs about $10.14

 Your annual routine:

  • Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to choose the right lubricant for your garage door.
  • Prioritize safety: Ensure the door is fully closed and cut the electricity.
  • Check for any signs of damage before proceeding, and call in a pro if needed.15

This simple task eliminates squeaks and avoids expensive mechanical repairs.

7. Sump Pump Testing: Your Basement’s Guardian

Do you have a sump pump? Not everyone does, but if you do, take heed.

Your sump pump quietly protects your basement from water damage—but it needs testing to ensure it works when you need it most.

The flood prevention factor: Sump pump failure during a storm can result in thousands of dollars in cleanup costs.5

Your quarterly test:

  • Pour water into the pit to ensure the float triggers the pump.
  • Confirm pump and drainage are working correctly.
  • Clean the inlet screen once per year to avoid clogs.

This 10-minute check gives peace of mind and avoids major flood damage.

8. Chimney Cleaning: Preventing House Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of home heating fires (30%) is a dirty chimney.16

The fire prevention imperative: Professional cleaning costs between $100-$350 and is crucial for anyone burning wood.17 The cost of ignoring this task includes chimney repairs and fire damage that can devastate homes.

 Your annual safety check:

  • Hire a certified chimney sweep for inspection and cleaning, if needed.
  • Use only seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup.
  • Install a chimney cap to block debris and critters.

Professional chimney maintenance is a non-negotiable safety investment.

9. Roof Inspection: Protecting Your Shelter

Your roof endures a lot—storms, sun, pests—and while damage may start small, it can become unbelievably costly if ignored.

The structural stakes: A professional inspection averages $239, but some roofers will offer one for free.18 Roof repair costs have surged 28.47% year-over-year.19 A new roof now costs $9,500 on average.20

Your inspection process:

  • Twice per year, perform a DIY inspection for missing shingles, cracked flashing, and sagging areas.
  • Check your attic for stains or leaks after rainfall.
  • Consider a professional inspection every 1-2 years, depending on your risk factors.18
  • Contact your homeowners insurance company to see what your coverage includes.

Early intervention prevents thousands in repairs and helps retain resale value.

10. Water Pressure Monitoring: Protecting Your Plumbing

Many homeowners never check their home’s water pressure, but levels above 80 psi can damage pipes, appliances, and fixtures throughout your home, leading to premature failures and leaks.

The pressure problem: Water pressure that’s too high can damage your pipes and lead to expensive repairs or flooding. Pressure that’s too low can impact the performance of your faucets and appliances.21

 Your annual check:

  • Use a water pressure gauge connected to an outdoor faucet.
  • Ideal pressure: 40-60 psi. Install a regulator if it runs high.
  • Monitor for sudden changes that could signal a plumbing issue.21

This small check helps you avoid hidden damage to your entire plumbing system.

Creating Your Home Maintenance Schedule

Rather than reacting to emergencies, create a proactive plan. Here’s a maintenance chart that puts it all in one place:

Your Home Maintenance Schedule Chart Knoxville

The Maintenance Investment Reality

Homes with consistent maintenance routines sell for around 10% more than average.2 More importantly, budgeting 1–4% of your home’s purchase price annually helps prevent sudden, catastrophic expenses.22

As Lucas Puente, Economist at Thumbtack, notes: “Across the U.S., buyers should be prepared to spend at least a few thousand a year in home maintenance costs.”23

The Bottom Line

Ken and Libby Guthrie, Guthrie Group Homes, Knoxville TN Real Estate
Ken and Libby Guthrie, Guthrie Group Homes, Knoxville TN Real Estate

Proactive home maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. The ten hidden tasks above are often overlooked, but they’re critical to preserving your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and resale value.

Ultimately, your home is an investment. Consistent upkeep helps you avoid emergencies, save on utilities, and protect your equity for the long term.

Consider budgeting for these expenses annually rather than having them sneak up on you.

Ready to create a tailored maintenance plan for your home? I can connect you with trusted local service pros and show you how proactive upkeep contributes to your home’s market value.

Let’s talk about keeping your home in peak condition—and protecting one of your most valuable investments.

Sources

  1. Finance Buzz – https://financebuzz.com/homeowner-maintenance-repairs-survey
  2. Thumbtack – https://blog.thumbtack.com/investing-in-home-maintenance-pays-off-yet-the-majority-of-homeowners-are-under-budgeting-84426995b6c5
  3. This Old House – https://www.thisoldhouse.com/gutters/gutter-cleaning-cost
  4. This Old House – https://www.thisoldhouse.com/foundations/foundation-repair-cost
  5. Forbes – https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/plumbing/basement-flooding-repair-cost/
  6. HVAC.com – https://www.hvac.com/expert-advice/consequences-not-changing-your-air-filter/
  7. New York Times – https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/furnace-and-air-conditioner-filters-we-would-buy/#how-to-choose-a-filter-by-its-merv-rating
  8. Today’s Homeowner – https://todayshomeowner.com/hvac/cost/ac-tune-up-cost/
  9. Home Depot – https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-flush-a-water-heater/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901d7efffcd
  10. Angi – https://www.angi.com/articles/water-heater-flush-cost.htm
  11. National Fire Protection Association – https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/research/nfpa-research/fire-statistical-reports/home-fires-involving-clothes-dryers-and-washing-machines
  12. Home Advisor – https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/cleaning-services/clean-dryer-vents/
  13. U.S. Department of Energy – https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/purchasing-and-maintaining-refrigerators-and-freezers
  14. Angi – https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-garage-door-opener-cost.htm
  15. Lowes – https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-lubricate-garage-door
  16. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016-11/documents/kit_2_fast_facts.pdf
  17. Today – https://www.today.com/series/how-often-should-you/chimney-cleaning-how-often-get-sweep-inspection-t104648
  18. Angi – https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-roof-inspection-cost.htm
  19. Bankrate – https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/most-expensive-home-maintenance-costs/#home-maintenance
  20. Nerdwallet – https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/roof-replacement-cost
  21. The Spruce – https://www.thespruce.com/testing-water-pressure-in-your-home-2718692
  22. Home Guide – https://homeguide.com/costs/average-home-maintenance-costs
  23. Zillow – https://zillow.mediaroom.com/2017-07-31-Homeowners-Can-Spend-More-Than-9-000-a-Year-on-Hidden-Homeownership-and-Maintenance-Costs
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4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI
Home Improvement

4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Ask any homeowner about what they would like to change about their home, and most will say, “How much time do you have?”

Home improvements (cue Tim Allen) or home remodeling projects can stem from a variety of motivations, like preparing your home to put on the market, adding space for a growing family, addressing outdated features or aesthetics, or fixing structural/functional issues with the home.

However, when it comes to home remodeling projects, too many people assume their project will proportionally increase the value of their home. Few actually consider the complete scope of return on investment (ROI), taking into account not only potential impact on resale value but also the total costs of time, labor, and materials.

Some renovations may provide more “quality of life” ROI by improving comfort and aesthetics without significantly impacting resale value, while others can deliver notable financial returns.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your living space, increase the equity of your home, or trying to make some quick changes to improve your resale price, here are four remodeling projects with the highest ROI and some tips on how to get them done.

Top 4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Top 4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI
Top 4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Before diving into specific projects, it’s important to understand how the data supporting these ROI estimates was gathered. This article references findings from the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report conducted by Zonda Media, a reputable research firm in the real estate and construction industries.

The report’s ROI figures are based on national averages for both the cost of materials and labor, which means that regional differences may lead to variations in actual returns.

1. Garage Door Replacement

Garage Door Replacement
Garage Door Replacement
  • Job Cost: $4,513
  • Resale Value: $8,751
  • ROI: 193.9%

Replacing an old garage door is one of the simplest ways to dramatically boost your home’s curb appeal—and it happens to deliver the highest ROI of any remodeling project. The impact is largely due to the prominent visual space a garage door occupies on a home’s exterior. A sleek, modern garage door can make your entire facade look fresher and more attractive to buyers.

Garage doors with the highest ROI include insulated steel doors with modern paneling, custom carriage-style doors, and those featuring windows or decorative hardware. These options not only enhance the home’s exterior aesthetics but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.

2. Steel Entry Door Replacement

Steel Entry Door Replacement
Steel Entry Door Replacement
  • Job Cost: $2,355
  • Resale Value: $4,430
  • ROI: 188.1%

Upgrading to a steel entry door is a simple yet impactful change that can drastically improve both the look and energy efficiency of your home. Steel doors cost less than wood ones, giving you a cost effective way to make a big impact on the curb appeal of a home, without sacrificing performance, life span, or durability.

Why It Works:

  • Cost-Effective Curb Appeal: Steel doors are less expensive than wood but provide a similar aesthetic boost. This makes them a budget-friendly way to enhance a home’s exterior.
  • Energy Efficiency: Many steel doors come with insulating cores, which can help keep your home comfortable year-round and lower energy bills.
  • Increased Security: Steel doors are harder to break into, providing an added layer of safety that appeals to security-conscious buyers.

3. Manufactured Stone Veneer

Manufactured Stone Veneer
Manufactured Stone Veneer
  • Job Cost: $11,287
  • Resale Value: $17,291
  • ROI: 153.2%

Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a high-ROI project because it delivers a striking visual upgrade at a relatively moderate cost. MSV is an artificial cladding material designed to mimic the look of natural stone, making it a cost-effective way to add texture and sophistication to your home’s exterior.

Why It Works:

  • Strong Visual Impact: Stone veneers add depth and elegance, creating an upscale appearance that can significantly boost curb appeal.
  • Durability and Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stone, MSV is lightweight, easier to install, and resistant to wear and tear.
  • Perceived Value: Even though it’s a faux material, MSV adds an air of luxury and craftsmanship that can make your home more appealing to buyers.

Pro Tip: Use manufactured stone veneer to accentuate specific areas, such as around the entryway or along the lower portion of the facade, for maximum visual impact without overspending.

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

Minor Kitchen Remodel
Minor Kitchen Remodel
  • Job Cost: $27,492
  • Resale Value: $26,406
  • ROI: 96.1%

According to Homelight’s “Top Agent Insights End of Year 2024 Report”, “88% of agents say that upgraded kitchens and appliances are one of the best selling points for homes”–a significant increase from the previous year.

The trick to ROI with a kitchen remodel is the budget, and how you decide to balance what to upgrade, the quality of materials, and how much to work within the existing layout.

For example, you can make a big impact with less expense if you keep your current cabinet boxes but upgrade the doors and hardware. However, if you strike that balance, you can recoup much of your investment.

If you’re looking to sell, an updated kitchen will appeal to buyers, which can also help your home stand out and sell faster.

Why It Works:

  • High Buyer Interest: Kitchens are a focal point for most buyers, so even modest improvements can make a significant impact.
  • Affordable Upgrades: By focusing on midrange materials—such as quartz countertops, midrange appliances, and refaced cabinets—you can keep costs manageable while still delivering a fresh look.
  • By keeping the existing layout and avoiding costly structural changes, you can modernize your kitchen while keeping costs down.
Key Takeaways for Homeowners
Key Takeaways for Homeowners

Key Takeaways for Homeowners

7 out of the 10 best ROI projects all have to do with improvements to the exterior of your home, which makes one thing very clear: Boosting the curb appeal of your home in a cost-effective manner will give you the best ROI if you’re thinking about selling this year.

If you look at the current housing market, you can start to see why that is. In the post-pandemic frenzy, buyers had to accept whatever they could find. However, housing inventory has increased over the last couple of years, giving buyers more options.

Additionally, due to high-interest rates and affordability issues, the current market favors older, move-up home buyers who are sitting on equity, and these buyers can afford to be pickier about the home they buy.

You can see these trends play out in the “Top Agent Insights End of Year 2024 Report” conducted by HomeLight:

Which home features have become the strongest selling points in your market this year?
Which home features have become the strongest selling points in your market this year?
What are the top features or upgrades sellers can add to their homes?
What are the top features or upgrades sellers can add to their homes?

Given these trends, it’s no wonder that the remodeling projects with the best ROI are those that make the home stand out from other homes in the area and leave a strong impression with potential buyers.

Conversely, the projects with the lowest ROI involve major remodels or upscale materials. Anytime you alter the footprint of a home—such as by moving walls or adding square footage—you’ll incur higher costs and lower returns.

Unless you’re a general contractor or a skilled DIYer, these high-end renovations typically aren’t worth it from a purely financial perspective. The one caveat is if you’re in a market where high-end appliances and materials are the rule not the exception.

Remodeling Projects by Popularity
Remodeling Projects by Popularity

How to Get Started on a Remodeling Project

Starting a remodeling project can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

1. Outline Your Project Goals: Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of remodeling, take a step back and clarify what you hope to achieve.

Are you remodeling to improve aesthetics? To improve functionality or comfort for your family? To prepare your home for the market or boost your resale value? Is it an essential repair? After you decide on why you’re doing it, you can take a step back and decide what is worth the cost to you.

2. Get inspired: Take time to gather ideas and give shape to your vision. Whether you’re updating a single room or tackling a whole-house remodel, these resources can inspire you:

  • Houzz – A go-to platform for home remodeling ideas, complete with photos, product links, and even local contractor recommendations.
  • Pinterest – Create mood boards for different rooms by pinning your favorite designs and layouts. You can also add ‘-pinterest’ to Google searches to find more targeted boards and collections of remodeling ideas on Pinterest.
  • This Old House – Packed with articles, videos, and guides on home renovation projects, from DIY fixes to large-scale remodels.
  • YouTube Channels: Follow popular home renovation YouTubers who share real-life projects, product reviews, and practical tips.
  • Visit Local Showrooms: You can visit the showrooms or warehouses from local manufactures for ideas on fixtures, cabinetry, and counter tops.
  • Open Houses – Stop by open houses in your area to get a feel for what’s popular and what other homeowners have done.
  • Local Remodeling / Contractor Websites: Many will post galleries and before/after images of their renovations, and these galleries can be a goldmine for practical remodeling ideas!

3. Prioritize your wants vs. needs: Once you’ve gathered ideas, it’s time to separate the essentials from the extras.

  • Must-Haves: These are the non-negotiable items—structural fixes, code-compliance upgrades, or critical repairs.
  • Nice-to-Haves: These are aesthetic choices or features that you’d like to include if your budget allows.A prioritized list will help you make tough decisions if costs start to climb or timelines get tight.

4. Create a scope and timeline: Clearly defining what’s included (and excluded) in your remodel is critical for staying on schedule and within budget.

  • What’s Included: Are you only updating finishes and fixtures, or are you changing the layout and moving walls?
  • Project Phases: If you’re remodeling multiple areas, consider breaking the project into phases to manage timelines more effectively.
  • Expected Timelines: Be realistic about how long the project will take, especially if you’re working around major life events or seasonal weather.

5. Set a realistic budget: Start by researching the typical costs for your specific type of remodeling project in your area. Resources like Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, HomeAdvisor, and NAHB provide national and regional averages for popular renovations like kitchens, bathrooms, and additions.

6. Include a Contingency Fund: Even with thorough planning, unexpected costs seem to always arise. Many experts recommend setting aside 15% – 30% of your total budget for contingencies.

7. Research contractors & Get Multiple Quotes: If you’re hiring contractors, request at least three detailed quotes to compare prices and scope of work. Make sure to clarify what’s included in each quote to avoid misunderstandings. And use your checklist below for some tips on hiring a contractor!

Checklist for Hiring a Contractor

Knoxville - Checklist for Hiring a Contractor
Knoxville – Checklist for Hiring a Contractor

Finding the right contractor is crucial for a successful remodeling project. Here’s a quick checklist to help you hire the right professional:

  • Get recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and your real estate agent. Word of mouth is one of the most reliable ways to find a trusted contractor. Ask people you trust about their experiences and if they would hire the contractor again. After you have a recommendation, you can also search for reviews online.
  • Check credentials, licensing, and insurance. Verify that the contractor is licensed to work in your state. Most states have an online database for checking contractor licenses. You can also look for contractors certified by reputable organizations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).
  • Review past projects and ask for client references. Ask to see a portfolio of previous projects similar to yours. Pay attention to the quality of work and whether their style aligns with your vision.
  • Request detailed bids from multiple contractors. Ask for written estimates that break down costs into categories such as labor, materials, permits, and any additional fees. Compare bids carefully to ensure all contractors are quoting on the same scope of work.
  • Ensure the contract includes a clear scope of work, timeline, and payment terms.
  • Check references – A reputable contractor should have no issue providing references. Contact past clients and ask about their experience.
  • Avoid red flags
    • Unusually Low Bids: If a bid is significantly lower than others, it could indicate corner-cutting or hidden costs.
    • Pressure to Pay Upfront: A small deposit is normal, but never pay the full amount before work begins.
    • Lack of Written Contract: Never agree to verbal agreements only.
    • Poor Communication: If a contractor is difficult to reach or dismissive during the bidding process, this may continue during the project.

Conclusion

Ken and Libby Guthrie, Guthrie Group Homes, Knoxville TN Real Estate
Ken and Libby Guthrie, Guthrie Group Homes, Knoxville TN Real Estate

Whether you’re updating your home to sell or simply want to enjoy a more modern space, focusing on high-ROI projects is a smart strategy. From replacing your garage door to enhancing your home’s exterior with stone veneer, these upgrades can boost both your home’s value and appeal.

Curious about what features are popular in your neighborhood? Thinking of moving and wondering what remodeling projects, if any, you should do before listing? Want recommendations on contractors? We’re happy to help!

Call Libby at Cell: 865-364-0200 or use our Contact form.

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