15 Home Remodel Upgrades That Are Worth the Extra Money
When considering a home remodel, there are certain upgrades that are often worth spending extra money on, as they can improve your living experience, increase your home’s value, and provide long-term benefits. Here are some home remodel upgrades that are worth the extra money:
1. High-Quality Kitchen Appliances
Why it’s worth it: Upgrading to high-end, energy-efficient appliances like a premium refrigerator, oven, or dishwasher can enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic. They often come with longer lifespans, better performance, and energy savings.
Extra benefit: Modern appliances improve the overall kitchen experience and can increase the appeal of your home to potential buyers.
2. Quartz or Granite Countertops
Why it’s worth it: These durable materials offer both aesthetic appeal and longevity. They're highly resistant to scratches and stains, making them practical for kitchens and bathrooms.
Extra benefit: High-quality countertops are a feature that buyers often look for and can make your home stand out in a competitive market.
3. Energy-Efficient Windows
Why it’s worth it: Energy-efficient windows help maintain consistent indoor temperatures, reduce your energy bills, and block harmful UV rays that can fade furniture and carpets.
Extra benefit: With the growing interest in sustainability, energy-efficient windows can be a major selling point for eco-conscious buyers.
4. Smart Home Technology
Why it’s worth it: Smart thermostats, lighting, security cameras, and smart locks make your home more convenient, secure, and energy-efficient. These upgrades provide long-term value with the growing trend toward smart homes.
Extra benefit: Homebuyers increasingly prefer smart technology as it offers a modern, high-tech living experience.
5. High-Efficiency Insulation
Why it’s worth it: Insulating your home with high-quality materials helps keep your home comfortable year-round, while reducing energy consumption. Spray foam or cellulose insulation is especially effective.
Extra benefit: Enhanced energy efficiency can lead to long-term savings on heating and cooling bills, making it an investment that pays for itself over time.
6. Custom Closet Systems
Why it’s worth it: Custom closet organizers, shelves, and cabinets can significantly improve your storage space and make your home feel more organized. This upgrade adds functionality to any room, particularly the master bedroom or walk-in closets.
Extra benefit: A well-organized closet can increase your home’s appeal and makes daily living more convenient and enjoyable.
7. Spa-Like Bathroom Remodel
Why it’s worth it: Upgrading your bathroom to feel like a luxury spa can include high-end features like a rainfall shower, deep soaking tub, heated floors, and custom vanities.
Extra benefit: Buyers value updated, spa-like bathrooms, and this upgrade creates a serene retreat that boosts your personal enjoyment.
8. Outdoor Living Spaces
Why it’s worth it: Adding a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen enhances your home’s usable space and creates a great area for entertaining. High-quality outdoor furniture, built-in grills, and fireplaces can turn your yard into an outdoor oasis.
Extra benefit: Outdoor spaces are especially popular in warmer climates and add significant value, extending your home’s living area.
9. Built-In Storage Solutions
Why it’s worth it: Built-in bookshelves, cabinets, or storage units can maximize space in living areas, kitchens, and even hallways. These custom designs help keep your home organized and add a custom touch.
Extra benefit: Buyers love extra storage, and custom-built solutions offer both practical and aesthetic benefits.
10. Energy-Efficient HVAC System
Why it’s worth it: Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) can dramatically lower your energy bills, improve air quality, and increase comfort throughout your home.
Extra benefit: An updated HVAC system is a major selling point and may give you an edge when listing your home, as potential buyers won't have to worry about replacing it soon.
11. Hardwood or High-Quality Flooring
Why it’s worth it: Hardwood floors are classic, durable, and easy to maintain. Other high-end flooring options like natural stone or luxury vinyl planks can also be great choices for both style and practicality.
Extra benefit: Well-maintained or newly installed floors improve the home’s aesthetic, add value, and attract buyers looking for timeless finishes.
12. Energy-Efficient Lighting
Why it’s worth it: Switching to LED lighting and upgrading to more efficient light fixtures can save on energy costs and create a modern look throughout the home.
Extra benefit: LED lighting is long-lasting and reduces energy consumption, which can appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
13. Custom Front Door
Why it’s worth it: A high-quality, visually appealing front door can make a huge difference in your home’s curb appeal. Upgrading to a solid wood or stylish steel door adds warmth and character to the entry.
Extra benefit: A custom or high-end front door gives a great first impression and can increase home value, making it a strong ROI upgrade.
14. Finished Basement or Additional Living Space
Why it’s worth it: Finishing an underused basement into a functional living area, such as a home theater, office, or gym, can dramatically increase your home’s usable square footage.
Extra benefit: A finished basement provides an appealing living space for families or potential buyers looking for extra rooms.
15. Upgraded Exterior Siding
Why it’s worth it: Replacing old, worn siding with durable materials like fiber cement, brick, or premium vinyl not only improves curb appeal but also boosts your home’s energy efficiency and longevity.
Extra benefit: New, modern siding can make your home look fresh and well-maintained, adding value and helping it stand out.
While some remodels can be pricey, the upgrades mentioned above can provide long-term value, enhance your home’s functionality, and improve its resale potential. Balancing quality with your budget is key, but these investments can often pay off, especially when you’re considering both your personal enjoyment and potential return on investment.