Home Improvement Costs and Values – Which Home Improvement Projects Are the Most Cost Effective?

Home improvement is a popular hobby that can transform your living space or a way to add value to your property. However, not all projects are created equal. Whether you’re renovating to sell or just want a nicer look, it’s important to understand which improvements will give you the biggest return and save you money in the long run.

Our tools will help you understand how much popular projects cost, how they can affect your home’s value and which smart choices can help you save. Plus, our resources will help you find reputable and qualified professionals to work on your project.

One thing that’s certain in life: death, taxes and — if you’re a homeowner — renovation projects. Even if you don’t plan to renovate, these can’t-wait tasks will likely pop up in the form of an electrical problem or a leaky roof. Homeowners have spent a record $522 billion on projects in the past two years, according to census data, a $72 billion increase from the previous two-year period.

Among those projects, sparkling bathroom overhauls are most popular. But, in terms of resale value, homeowners are getting just a 60% return on their investment, according to a recent Cost vs. Value report by Zonda Media, a research and analytics firm. And, a major kitchen remodel won’t necessarily pay off either. Generally speaking, such projects offer the lowest return of any home improvement project, followed by adding an in-ground swimming pool or a new master suite.