Top 10 Remodeling Projects With the Best ROI

Every smart homeowner knows that major—or even minor—remodeling projects should be undertaken with one eye on design and the other on the ROI. You want to be comfortable with whatever return on investment you receive for upgrading your home because, unfortunately, many upgrades won’t entirely recoup their cost upon sale. But the use you get out of the home with the upgrade might still make the construction worthwhile, regardless of the ultimate selling price.

Here are the top 10 remodeling projects that provide the best return on investment nationally:

1. Add fiberglass attic insulation

• Cost Recouped: 107.7%
• Average Job Cost: $1,343
• Average Resale Value: $1,446

2. Replace your entry door with a steel door

• Cost Recouped: 90.7%
• Average Job Cost: $1,413
• Average Resale Value: $1,282

3. Install a manufactured stone veneer (instead of vinyl siding)

• Cost Recouped: 89.4%
• Average Job Cost: $7,851
• Average Resale Value: $7,019

4. Complete a minor kitchen remodel

Cost estimate includes new cabinet fronts and hardware, new energy-efficient appliances, laminate countertops, mid-priced sink and faucet, dingy floor replacement and wall paint.

• Cost Recouped: 80.2%
• Average Job Cost: $20,830
• Average Resale Value: $16,699

5. Replace the garage door

• Cost Recouped: 76.9%
• Average Job Cost: $1,749
• Average Resale Value: $1,345

6. Replace the siding 

• Cost Recouped: 76.4%
• Average Job Cost: $14,518
• Average Resale Value: $11,093

7. Add a wood deck

Cost estimate includes built-in bench and planter.

• Cost Recouped: 71.1%
• Average Job Cost: $176,108
• Average Resale Value: $125,222

8. Add a two-story addition

Cost estimate includes adding a family room, bedroom and bathroom.

• Cost Recouped: 71.1%
• Average Job Cost: $176,108
• Average Resale Value: $125,222

9. Finish the basement

Cost estimate includes bar area, main room and bathroom.

• Cost Recouped: 70%
• Average Job Cost: $71,115
• Average Resale Value: $49,768

10. Add a family room

• Cost Recouped: 69.3%
• Average Job Cost: $89,566
• Average Resale Value: $62,055

Source: Residential Resale Council