Which Home Renovations Have the Best ROI?
Some renovations return 150% at resale. Others lose money. Here is what the data says.
Best ROI renovations: garage door replacement (103%), minor kitchen remodel with refacing (85%), manufactured stone veneer (89%), entry door replacement (90%), deck addition (83%). These share one trait: high curb appeal impact at moderate cost.
Worst ROI
Swimming pool (43% return). Luxury kitchen gut renovation (38%). Master suite addition (48%). Home office conversion (40%). These are personal enjoyment projects — great if you will use them for years, terrible as pure investments. The golden rule: renovate for YOUR enjoyment first, ROI second, unless selling within 2 years.