Cost vs Value - Which Improvements Are Worth It When Selling?

Cost vs. Value: Which Home Improvements Are Worth It When Selling?

Before You Spend Thousands Getting Ready to Sell, Read This

As a licensed Realtor and home remodeler in Minnesota, I get this question all the time: “Should I redo the kitchen before selling?” Or: “Will finishing the basement increase my home's value enough to justify the cost?”

The answer depends on your home, the local market, your price point — and the type of buyers you're trying to attract. The key is understanding the concept of Cost vs. Value — how much an improvement costs vs. how much it actually adds to your sale price.

Why "Cost vs. Value" Is So Important When Selling

It's easy to assume that spending $50,000 on a new kitchen automatically adds $50,000 in resale value. But the data — and experience — show otherwise. Some updates return more than others, and most improvements don’t return 100% of what you put in.

In fact, the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report shows that minor improvements often yield a stronger ROI than major ones.

Top Home Improvements with High ROI in Minnesota

  • Garage door replacement – Up to 90%+ return in many areas
  • Minor kitchen refresh – Paint cabinets, new hardware, updated lighting (often returns more than full gut remodels)
  • Entry door replacement – Especially steel or fiberglass doors with clean, modern curb appeal
  • Bathroom refresh – New vanity, mirror, and light fixture can transform the space without huge spend
  • Exterior paint and landscaping – First impressions matter

Projects That Typically Don’t Pay Off Before Selling

  • High-end kitchen remodels – You may love it, but buyers might not match your taste or see the value
  • Luxury basement finishes – Useful for lifestyle, but not always necessary to get top dollar
  • Swimming pools – Often add more maintenance concerns than value in the eyes of Minnesota buyers

Strategic Updates Can Pay Off Big

One of my recent listings in New Hope had an older kitchen but fresh interior paint, new lighting, and great staging. We listed for $399,900 and sold with multiple offers for $418,000. A $3,500 refresh added over $18K in buyer value.

Let’s Talk About What Makes Sense for Your Home

Every property is different. I offer honest, experienced pre-listing advice so you don’t waste time or money on improvements that won’t pay off. Whether you're prepping to list this month or just exploring your options, I’m here to help you make smart, cost-effective decisions.

💡 Download my free home selling guide
✉ Schedule a pre-listing strategy session

Joe Houghton
Broker Associate | RE/MAX Results
Licensed Home Builder & Remodeler
📞 (763) 300-2702
🌐 www.mnpropertygroup.com

Location: Minneapolis, MN, USA

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