In the housing market where every dollar counts, homeowners are always searching for something that could boost their property value. But before you do that major upgrade in the backyard, look first for upgrades that aren’t expensive nor dramatic. Today, we’re uncovering the 12 upgrades that are often overlooked, which give a surprising return on investment.
12. Closet Makeover
Did you know that a cluttered and disorganized closet can scare away potential buyers? It signals that there’s a lack of space throughout the entire house. A thoughtfully designed closet can do wonders since it’s a psychological trick for those hunting for a new home. In fact, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) reported that a closet renovation can recoup up to 83% of its cost for resale. The key is to maximize every square inch of space available with rods, adjustable shelves, and compartments.
11. Good Lighting
Never underestimate a good lighting as it can change the perception of a space, which makes it feel larger and more inviting. Replace those dated fixtures and change them with the much modern energy-efficient LED lighting to yield a 1-3% increase in your home value. Meanwhile, a well-placed outdoor lighting boasts a 50-60% return on investment. That includes landscape lighting to show the architectural features of your home and serves as security lighting. Strategically layer them to create that drama in your home.
10. Pressure Washer
Before considering a pricey paint job, enhance your home’s curb appeal and value by starting with a pressure washer. Over time, dirt, grime, mold, and mildew can be visible through the siding, driveways, and walkways, making your home appear neglected. But don’t worry, as power washing can do the job of those years of buildup. With that, it can add an estimated $10,000 to $15,000 to your home’s value.
9. Minor Bathroom Remodel
Of course, you’ve got to make a good impression with the bathroom. A midrange bathroom remodel will let you upgrade the toilet, tub, sink, vanity, and fixtures, which can recoup around 70%-80% of its cost for resale. Remember, buyers are looking for a clean and modern bathroom with the latest additions, which has an emotional impact on homeowners.
8. Smart Home Technology
Modern technology has also introduced the smart home to buyers. With this, they look for features like smart thermostats, security systems, and automated lighting. It was revealed that a strategized smart home ecosystem increases the property’s value by 3-5%. It’s an investment that buyers are willing to pay a premium for in the name of convenience and feeling secure.
7. Backup Generator
Speaking of convenience, a backup generator has been a sought-after home feature. It features the highest ROI for recoup with 95.3% of its cost. This is especially needed if your house is in a region that’s prone to hurricanes, storms, or an unreliable power grid. This generator can power lights and a refrigerator, to HVAC systems.
6. Kitchen Remodel
Follow the kitchen mantra of refreshing and not replacing. A minor kitchen remodel includes replacing cabinet fronts, countertops, and appliances to get 112.9% of its cost. A fresh coat of paint, new hardware, and modern countertops will do the trick. Also, choose energy-efficient appliances for savings in utility bills. Remember, a beautiful kitchen can be a major selling point of any home.
5. Paint
Paint is the cheapest and easiest way to refresh both your home’s interior and exterior. Just a fresh coat of paint can add an average of about $10,184 to the value of your home. The key? Choose only neutral color palettes that would appeal to most buyers. It also makes your space feel larger and creates a blank canvas to allow potential buyers to envision the space. It’s a small investment that adds so much value to your home.
4. Deck
Consider a patio to be an extension of your home’s living space. There’s a growing preference for smaller and more efficient homes that buyers will pay a premium just for functional outdoor areas. The National Association of Home Builders reported that 68% of new builds now feature porches, while 64% have patios. Even the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report shows that a wood deck addition recoups at 94.9% of the cost. Buyers desire an outdoor space for entertaining or relaxing, but still in the comfort of their homes.
3. New Garage Door
Don’t overlook your garage door, as it greatly impacts your curb’s appeal to potential buyers. The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report shows that a new garage door recoups at a shocking 267.7% of the cost. New garage doors can actually modernize the exterior of your home, and buyers are willing to pay extra for a fresh and updated look. Also, modern garage doors are better insulated and secured than their older counterparts. You can also upgrade them with smart technology that will allow you to open and close them from your phone. Just choose the door that matches your home’s architecture.
2. Front Door
If there’s a garage door, there’s also the front door. It actually sets the tone for your entire home, and not to mention, a profitable home improvement. The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report revealed that replacing your door with a new steel entry door recoups around 261.4% of its cost. Why? A steel door features a good combination of security, durability, and energy efficiency that will attract most buyers. They’re also filled with a powerful insulating foam core that prevents heat loss in the winter and cools down your home in the summer.
1. Energy-Efficient Upgrades
One of the most overlooked upgrades is the energy-efficient features of the home. We’re talking about attic insulation, air sealing, and high-efficiency windows. The EPA estimates that these simple upgrades will make homeowners save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs. Also, homes with proper insulation are found to sell at 2-6% more, which means that every dollar invested can return four dollars or more.