Data-Driven ROI: Curb Appeal Wins Big

According to Remodeling’s latest Cost vs. Value Report, simple curb appeal projects top the list for resale value in 2026. For the second year in a row, a basic garage door replacement ranks as the #1 ROI project nationwide, returning about 268% of its cost on average. In other words, an upgrade costing around $4,700 can add roughly $12,500 to your home’s resale value. Replacing an old entry door with a new steel door comes in second (about 216% ROI), and adding manufactured stone veneer to your exterior is third (around 208% ROI). These projects more than double what you spend on them, highlighting how much curb appeal can boost home value.

It’s not just those three. In fact, eight of the top ten highest-ROI projects are exterior replacements like doors, siding, and decks. The only interior improvement in the top five is a minor kitchen remodel, which still recoups about 113% of its cost on average. Industry experts note that exterior improvements “remain the clear winners when it comes to adding resale value” for sellers. Home upgrades that improve curb appeal tend to attract buyers and pay off at resale, whereas large indoor remodels are often more subjective in taste.

High-Value vs. Personal-Value Projects

This data doesn’t mean you should never remodel your interior. It just means you should set the right expectations. Big-ticket renovations that are tailored to personal taste might not pay for themselves when you sell. For example, an upscale major kitchen remodel only returns around 36% of its cost at resale on average. Projects like luxury bathroom additions or high-end kitchen overhauls are wonderful for your own enjoyment, but they usually won’t add nearly as much value as they cost. If you’re planning to stay in your home for many years, investing in a dream kitchen or spa-like bath can still make sense for your quality of life. But if you might sell sooner, smaller-scale improvements with broad appeal (like updating fixtures, repainting, or enhancing curb appeal) often offer a better bang for your buck.

On the other hand, if you’re aiming to sell in the near future, focusing on high-ROI projects can maximize your home equity. Replacing dated garage doors, front doors, or siding are relatively affordable fixes that dramatically improve first impressions. These changes not only attract more buyers but can also justify a higher listing price. As one housing analyst put it, exterior projects often “drive the most value for owners selling their homes, while interior projects make the most sense for residents planning on staying longer”. In short, know your goals: invest in curb appeal to boost resale value, and invest in interior comforts for your own enjoyment.

Financing Your Home Improvements Wisely

Before you grab a hammer or call a contractor, have a plan to pay for your renovations. Many homeowners tap into their home equity to fund improvements. For example, you might use a home equity loan or a cash-out refinance to finance a project. These options can provide the cash needed to upgrade your home, and with mortgage rates still reasonable by historical standards, borrowing against your equity may be cost-effective. However, always weigh a project’s expected ROI against the cost of financing. Premier Plus Lending can help you explore renovation financing options and even estimate how certain updates could impact your home’s value.

Ready to invest in your home’s value?

Contact Premier Plus Lending today for personalized guidance on which improvements make the most sense for your situation. Our team is here to help you finance your next remodel wisely and make the most of your home – from enjoying it today to maximizing its value when you decide to sell.