5 Improvements Homeowners Should Invest In If They Plan To Sell During 2025
Based on the most recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing home sales shot up 6.1% in November 2024 on an annual basis. This figure represented the largest year-over-year increase since June 2021. Economists from NAR shared that more buyers are entering the market as the economy adds jobs, housing inventory increases and consumers adjust to higher mortgage rates.
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If you’re looking to sell your property in 2025, there are a few projects that you may want to consider investing in to maximize your profits. The following are five improvements homeowners should consider investing in if they plan to sell during 2025.
Fix or Update the Roof
“A new roof can make the difference between a quick sale and a house sitting stagnant on the market,” said Melanie Musson, a finance expert with InsuranceProviders.com. “It’s even more important to replace your roof if you live in a hurricane-prone area, as prospective buyers know they’ll have trouble finding home insurance to cover their roof if it’s over 10 or 15 years old.”
You’ll want to ensure that your roof is fixed and appealing, since this could be one of the first things someone sees as they pull into your home. Plus, it could protect the value of your home when it comes time to sell.
“A new roof isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a critical investment that can protect your home’s value and ensure your family’s safety,” said Courtney Klosterman, a home insights expert at Hippo Insurance.
Even though replacing an existing roof isn’t a minor investment, U.S. homeowners earned back 57% of their investment based on the latest market resale values after opting for a new roof with fiberglass asphalt shingles. According to The Journal of Light Construction, an investment of $30,680 into a new roof came with an average resale value of $17,461.
You also have a few options if you want to improve your roof without replacing it, according to Klosterman.
Clean your gutters. This simple DIY task helps prevent pooling water.
Repair damaged shingles. Inspect your roof for any loose or damaged shingles because damaged roofs often get dinged during home inspections, so minor repairs can go a long way if you’re considering selling your home.
Trim overhanging branches. Trimming branches that overhang on your roof can prevent leaves and debris from accumulating on your roof and potentially causing problems.
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Work On the Home’s Curb Appeal
Since first impressions matter when trying to sell your home, you’ll want to invest in the curb appeal. The exterior of the home should look inviting to potential buyers. Michael Gifford, a real expert and founder of Splitero, said that changing out your old plants, adding larger trees, fixing a patchy lawn and trimming down overgrown shrubs can instantly boost your home’s curb appeal and add a welcoming feel.
While you’ll want to ensure that your roof is fixed and that your landscaping is attractive to potential buyers, you’ll want to pay extra attention to your entry door and windows. The Journal of Light Construction found that, on average, homeowners earned back 188% of their investment from improving their entry door in 2024 based on market resale values.
Klosterman added the following suggestions if you want to enhance your entry door or windows.
Add a fresh coat of paint. A fresh coat of paint on your entry door can drastically improve your home’s curb appeal while also helping to protect it.
Power wash windows. Power washing your window screens or hiring professional window cleaners can significantly improve the look of your windows to potential buyers.
Replace weather stripping. Cleaning up and replacing worn-out weather stripping around your doors and windows is a simple DIY project that can help improve energy efficiency and reduce drafts.
Update the Kitchen
According to Musson, updated kitchens have been a selling point for decades. “A full kitchen remodel may not be worth the expense, but upgrades where you get the most return on your investment are almost always a good idea,” she said. “If your cupboards are outdated, consider paint and cosmetic updates like new knobs or handles on doors and drawers.”
Gifford pointed out that a minor remodeling project can include new hardware, countertops, cabinet faces, appliances, flooring and paint. “Today’s homebuyers are looking for modern kitchens with big islands to gather around and make memories,” he said.
The average cost of a minor kitchen remodeling project was $27,492 in 2024, and homeowners were able to recoup 96% of this expense, per The Journal of Light Construction. Since many real estate experts consider the kitchen the heart of the home, this home improvement investment could provide you with one of the best returns on your money.
Make Smart-Home Upgrades
A few simple smart-home upgrades could make your home more enticing to prospective buyers.
“Even if you’re not ready for a complete smart home overhaul, there are still ways to incorporate some smart features without breaking the bank,” Klosterman explained. “These short-term benefits include increased convenience, remote control of lights and appliances, potential energy savings, and peace of mind from features like smart security cameras.”
Klosterman pointed out that you can start with simple investments, like incorporating smart light bulbs and installing DIY smart security solutions. “Consider installing smart door locks or doorbell cameras that you can monitor remotely using your smartphone. These features offer increased security for your home and peace of mind for potential buyers,” she said.
Musson noted that people don’t want to change bulbs every couple of months, and they don’t want to pay for the electricity that incandescent bulbs draw. “LED lights have so many options. You can go basic or set up your whole house with smart lights,” she said.
Refresh the Bathrooms
You may want to consider spending some money to upgrade the bathrooms in your home since potential buyers will definitely be inspecting them.
Gifford said that a clean and refreshed bathroom can significantly boost a home’s value. “Small updates like re-grouting tiles, replacing worn caulking, upgrading light fixtures, and swapping out old hardware or faucets can have a noticeable impact,” he said. “For a modest investment, consider replacing the vanity or adding a frameless glass shower door to elevate the space’s style without overspending.”
Americans spent an average of $25,251 on midrange bathroom remodels in 2024, and they were able to recoup 74% of the investment when selling their homes, according to The Journal of Light Construction.
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