For example, kitchens and bathrooms get a lot of attention from buyers. According to a study done by Houzz in 2024, kitchens and bathrooms are the most commonly renovated interior rooms. If you are going to remodel one of those rooms, do you know what buyers might be looking for? Does the exterior of your house look well-kept? What about any unfinished space like a basement? The answers to these questions can help you start a list of potential projects to do before selling your house.
A lot of buyers are looking for a home that feels move-in ready, not one that needs a list of updates right away. So before you list your home, it could help to make home improvements that appeal to prospective buyers. This means making changes that are functional, visually appealing, and not too customized or trend-driven.
Here are five of the best house improvements for resale.
Table of Contents
5. Improve exterior and curb appeal
1. Update the kitchen
How it might help: The kitchen is often the heart of the home. It’s where we cook for our families, entertain, and talk about our day. That’s why kitchens are the most renovated, with 29% of homeowners undertaking either a kitchen remodel or addition.1 In fact, a minor kitchen remodel can attract potential buyers.
Trends to consider: Kitchen trends come and go. But there are some clear favorites. Nearly half (42%) of homeowners are looking to add or update an island during a kitchen remodel.2 For a little added glam, full-wall backsplashes are also popular, with 86% of homeowners replacing the backsplash during a kitchen renovation.1 Lighting can be a powerful and budget-friendly factor too.
2. Create a bathroom retreat
How it might help: Many homeowners come to their bathroom to relax, so making it a serene spot is a good goal. In an attempt to improve resale value, 26% of homeowners have given their bathrooms an upgrade.1
Trends to consider: When it comes to bathrooms, making the most out of the space often requires strategic changes. For instance, enlarging the shower, modifying the walls, or adjusting the overall layout. Adding a modern vanity and some fun, high-tech features to faucets and toilets are also popular upgrades. Even simple changes like these can make a big impact during a showing. Small improvements like better lighting, a new toilet, smart faucets, mirrors, artwork, and more shelving can all matter to prospective buyers. Other simple fixes include replacing your shower curtain and towels, which you can take with you when you move.
3. Upgrade the flooring
How it might help: Wood floors make a strong first impression. Many homeowners like wood floors because they look nice, last a long time, and may even help increase a home’s value. The National Association of Realtors found that, for interior projects, refinishing hardwood floors recovered 147% of the cost.3
Trends to consider: As far as floors go, hardwood floors can be one of the best value home improvements and can immediately add value whether they’re made from traditional oak or more-sustainable bamboo or other materials.
Wood is not the only option, however. Engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl or tile, if they can be added, can be equally attractive. Lighter colors typically add a sense of space and a clean appearance.
4. Replace the roof
How it might help: It might not be as fun as other home improvements, but a well-maintained roof is key. If you improve the attic insulation, too, this can appeal to eco-conscious buyers. That’s likely why a roofing renovation is a popular remodeling project for resale value.
Trends to consider: Your roof can make a bold statement about your house. Roofing trends for 2025 include durable and eco-friendly materials, solar shingles, cool roofing, and smart roof technology.4
5. Improve exterior and curb appeal
How it might help: When buyers see a house that’s maintained well on the outside, they trust you’ve taken the same care inside. Replacing a garage or entry door are small changes that could add value before selling.
Trends to consider: A new front door can make a statement without a big price tag, as can replacing a tired garage door. Adding a stone veneer to the front of the house is not cheap, but it may add a modern note to the overall impression.
If upgrading your home’s facade isn’t in the cards, be sure the siding is in good condition when selling. Power washing can help. Also paint the trim, tidy up the landscaping, and consider a lighting upgrade to enhance curb appeal.
Final steps
As you plan for home improvements before selling your house, keep in mind that you may not recoup the entire cost of remodeling when you sell. But the right improvements could make your home more appealing to potential buyers.
So, focus on home improvements that increase appeal. And enjoy the upgrades while you still live there.
Before planning your project, learn more about the difference between a remodel vs. a renovation. For more guidance on which home improvements make the most sense for your home, consider contacting an experienced real estate agent. Or look for a reputable contractor who can provide an up-to-date estimate of the costs involved.
When you’re ready to proceed, you’ll want to think about how you'll pay for the work. This could mean using savings or borrowing, tightening your budget, or trying to do some of it yourself.
Keep in mind that a personal loan from Discover® could simplify the task of remodeling and get you to your “open house” day sooner. You can apply in minutes with Discover Personal Loans, and there are no fees of any kind.
See how Discover can help with your home improvements to increase value.
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