Smart Home Improvements That Deliver Real ROI at Resale

Thinking about selling your home this spring? It may feel natural to wait until the season is in full swing, but in today’s market, waiting too long can actually put you behind.

Buyers now have more choices than they did just a few years ago, which means homes need to stand out from the start. Tackling key updates early gives you time to prepare thoughtfully instead of rushing through repairs right before listing—or worse, skipping improvements that could impact your sale.

The goal isn’t to renovate everything. It’s to focus on updates that truly matter. That’s where return-on-investment (ROI) data becomes especially helpful.

Which Home Updates Pay Off the Most?

Each year, Zonda analyzes home improvement projects to see which ones offer the greatest return at resale. Some of the top performers may surprise you.

While the data includes a wide range of projects, many of the highest-ROI updates are relatively simple—like replacing entry doors. These smaller improvements often deliver outsized value because they immediately improve a home’s appearance and first impression.

Small Changes, Big Impact

This data reinforces an important point: you don’t need a massive renovation budget to make a difference. Strategic, well-chosen updates can go a long way.

In today’s market, doing nothing can actually work against you. With more inventory available, buyers are increasingly drawn to homes that feel move-in ready. Deferred maintenance or visible wear can cause them to move on quickly.

That’s why it’s smart to focus on what your home truly needs—whether that’s fresh paint, repairing worn finishes, tidying the yard, or addressing small fixes you’ve been postponing. Details like a neglected front door, scuffed walls, or overgrown landscaping all influence how buyers perceive value.

Interior designer and home stager Mallory Slesser shared this insight with the National Association of Realtors:

“If you’re looking for affordable updates that pack a punch, dollar for dollar, I would say painting; changing out light fixtures; changing out hardware; maybe new draperies or window treatments. Those are all cost-effective ways to make a big statement. It really changes the space.”

These improvements help buyers focus on the home itself—not the work they think they’ll need to do after moving in. Homes that feel well maintained and thoughtfully updated often command stronger offers.

Use Data as a Guide—Not a One-Size-Fits-All Plan

National ROI data is a helpful starting point, but it shouldn’t be treated as a universal strategy. Buyer expectations vary by market, neighborhood, and price point. An update that adds value in one area may be unnecessary—or excessive—in another.

That’s why it’s always wise to consult a local real estate professional before starting any work.

A knowledgeable agent can help you determine:

• Which updates buyers in your area expect

• What you can skip without hurting your sale

• Where a modest investment will make the biggest impact

• Whether updating or selling as-is makes more sense

  
  

This guidance helps you avoid over-improving while ensuring your home is positioned competitively.

If you’re planning to sell this spring, there’s still time to make smart, high-impact updates without committing to a full renovation. The key is prioritizing improvements that enhance value and buyer appeal.

Not sure where to begin? A quick conversation with a local real estate expert can help you focus on the upgrades that truly pay off.

What’s one home update you’ve been considering—and wondering if it’s worth it?