Remodeling ROI Guide: Which Projects Pay Off When You Sell?
Before you spend money getting ready to sell, see which projects tend to return the most at resale and which usually don't.
Not every upgrade adds as much value as it costs. Nationally, smaller exterior and curb-appeal projects consistently recoup the most of their cost at resale, while big additions and luxury remodels usually recoup less. Here are the national averages from the most widely cited study.
2025 national cost vs. value
The "cost recouped" column shows the estimated share of the project cost added to resale value. Over 100% means the project, on average, added more value than it cost.
| Project | Avg. job cost | Cost recouped at resale |
|---|---|---|
| Garage door replacement | $4,672 | 268% |
| Entry door replacement (steel) | $2,435 | 216% |
| Manufactured stone veneer | $11,702 | 208% |
| Siding replacement (fiber-cement) | $21,485 | 114% |
| Minor kitchen remodel (midrange) | $28,458 | 113% |
| Backup power generator | — | 95% |
| Deck addition (wood) | — | 95% |
| Deck addition (composite) | — | 89% |
| Bath remodel (midrange) | — | 80% |
| Basement remodel | — | 71% |
| Universal design bath remodel | — | 61% |
| Bathroom addition (midrange) | — | 53% |
| Backyard patio | — | 46% |
| Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) | — | 41% |
| Solar power installation | — | 30% |
Source: Zonda, JLC Cost vs. Value Report 2025, national averages. Job costs shown only where published in our source. Results vary by region, home, neighborhood and contractor. © 2025 Zonda Media. Data used with attribution; see costvsvalue.com for complete data.
What this means for Upstate sellers
Start outside
A new garage door, front door, fresh paint, landscaping and pressure washing are relatively low-cost and boost your listing photos and first impressions.
Refresh, don't gut
A minor kitchen refresh (paint, hardware, lighting, counters, appliances) usually pays back far better than a full gut remodel.
Fix before you finish
Roof leaks, HVAC problems, rot and plumbing issues will come up at inspection. Fixing them protects your price and the deal.
Skip the big additions
Additions and upscale remodels rarely recoup their full cost before a sale. Do them because you'll enjoy them, not for resale.
Match the neighborhood
Over-improving beyond what nearby homes offer usually isn't rewarded by buyers or appraisers.
Lake homes are different
On the lakes, the dock, shoreline, views and outdoor living spaces can matter more than interior finishes. Ask us what buyers in your area expect.
Low-cost pre-listing updates that often help
- Neutral interior paint
- Updated light fixtures and cabinet hardware
- Professional deep cleaning and carpet cleaning
- Fresh mulch, trimmed landscaping and a pressure-washed exterior
- Repairing small defects buyers and inspectors notice
Ready to talk about selling?
At JW Martin Real Estate we try to live by one idea: "Be the kind of Realtor you'd want your Mother to have." Call (864) 722-5558, contact our team, or start with a free home valuation.
More seller resources: Our listing process · Pricing your home right · Home seller's guide · Remodeling ROI guide · Seller net proceeds and closing cost calculator · Why list with JW Martin
