Home Renovations with the Highest ROI in 2025

Realistic image of a home renovation project showing a couple reviewing blueprints at a kitchen table while a contractor installs tile backsplash in a partially renovated kitchen—ideal for blogs on high-ROI home improvements and remodeling trends in North Carolina's real estate market.

Thinking about tackling a home improvement project but not sure where to start, or whether it’s worth the cost? You’re not alone. Whether you’re planning to sell in a few years or simply want to love your space more today, the right updates can deliver both financial return and personal satisfaction.

According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of REALTORS®, Americans spent over $600 billion last year on home renovations. And for good reason! With today’s buyers less willing to compromise on condition, making smart improvements can increase your home’s resale value and appeal.

But not every project brings the same payoff. If you’re wondering where to invest your time and money, here’s a breakdown of the home upgrades with the highest return on investment—plus the ones that deliver the most joy.

Top Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI in 2025

If your goal is to improve your home’s value, these renovations offer the best cost recovery and resale potential:

  • Steel Front Door Replacement – 100% cost recovery

  • Closet Renovation – 83%

  • Fiberglass Front Door Replacement – 80%

  • New Vinyl Windows – 74%

  • New Wood Windows – 71%

  • Basement Conversion to Living Space – 71%

  • Attic Conversion to Living Space – 71%

  • Complete Kitchen Remodel – 60%

  • Minor Kitchen Updates – 60%

  • Adding a New Bathroom – 56%

  • New Primary Suite Addition – 54%

  • Bathroom Renovation – 50%

Even smaller improvements - like fresh paint, new hardware, or replacing dated light fixtures - can add value and help your home stand out.

Renovation Projects that Spark the Most Joy

ROI is important, but so is how your home feels. That’s why the NAR also measures homeowner satisfaction with a “Joy Score,” ranked from 1 to 10.

Here are the updates that homeowners said brought the biggest emotional return:

  • New Primary Bedroom Suite – 10/10

  • Kitchen Upgrade – 10/10

  • New Roof – 10/10

  • Bathroom Renovation – 9.8/10

  • Complete Kitchen Renovation – 9.7/10

  • Paint One Interior Room – 9.3/10

  • New Wood Flooring – 9.1/10

  • Basement to Living Space Conversion – 8.8/10

  • Exterior Paint – 8.8/10

  • New Front Door – 7.5/10

  • New Siding – 7.3/10

  • New Garage Door – 7/10

The benefits go beyond the project itself:

  • 64% of homeowners said remodeling made them want to spend more time at home

  • 46% reported greater day-to-day enjoyment

  • 55% felt a strong sense of accomplishment

  • And if money weren’t an issue, 92% said they’d take on even more upgrades

Remodel for Today and Tomorrow

Most homeowners don’t renovate just to prepare for a sale. In fact, the majority (27%) update their homes simply to refresh worn-out surfaces, while only 18% remodel with a sale in mind.

That means your renovation project can serve two purposes: improving your quality of life today and setting you up for a higher return when it’s time to sell down the road.

Whether you’re thinking about a kitchen remodel, replacing windows, or adding livable square footage, I’d be happy to talk through what makes the most sense for your home, your goals, and the market here in the Triangle.

Thinking about remodeling before you sell, or just want to know what will bring the most value? Reach out today and let’s have a conversation. I’ll give you honest, specific feedback based on your home and help you decide where your money is best spent.

Thanks for reading!

Brandon Yopp