Renovations with the Best ROI: Smart Upgrades for Homeowners and Investors

Renovating your property can be exciting – and it can pay off.  By choosing projects with a strong return on investment (ROI), you boost daily comfort and future resale value.  Experts agree that planning remodels around ROI helps homeowners and investors make smart choices.  In this post we’ll cover the top high-ROI projects (like kitchens, baths and curb appeal upgrades), explain why they add so much value, outline typical costs and timelines, and share tips for maximizing value on a budget.

High-ROI Renovation Projects

Kitchens.

Kitchen updates often lead the pack in ROI. A typical remodel (new cabinets, countertops, appliances, etc.) costs tens of thousands but can recoup roughly 70–80% of its cost. For example, Angi’s 2025 data shows most homeowners spend around £20,800 on a kitchen remodel and typically earn back about 70–80% of that in home value.

A minor kitchen refresh (paint cabinets, add backsplash, update fixtures) might run £7,700–£15,400, while a full overhaul could exceed £50,000.
Plan on a construction timeline of roughly 6–10 weeks, not counting a few weeks of upfront design and planning.

‍

Bathrooms.

Bathroom upgrades also yield strong returns. A midrange bathroom remodel runs around £9,200 (often £5,400–£23,000 depending on scope). Buyers love modern, spa-like baths – a mid-level bath redo typically recoups ~70–74% of its cost. (For example, Remodeling Magazine reports midrange bath jobs recoup about 73.7%.)

Even modest “freshen-ups” (new vanity, fixtures or tile) can boost appeal for far less. Timelines vary: a small half-bath update might take 2–3 weeks, while a full bath gut-renovation usually runs 4–8 weeks.

‍

Curb Appeal and Exterior Upgrades.  

First impressions matter. Upgrades to a home’s exterior or entry often pay off big. According to Remodeling’s Cost vs. Value report:

• Replacing an old garage door typically costs £3,500 and yields about a 194% ROI.
• A new steel entry door (around £1,770) yields 188% ROI.
• Updating siding (fibre-cement or vinyl) usually recoups 80–88%, and
• Adding a wood deck (£13,100 job) can return ~68–83%.

Even simple fixes – fresh exterior paint, new porch railings, bright landscaping – greatly improve curb appeal for modest cost. (NAR data shows 92% of agents say curb appeal is a top priority when selling).
These projects cost anywhere from a few thousand (for painting or a new door) up to ~£15,400 (for new siding) but tend to recoup a large share of that in added value.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades and Other Projects.
Energy-saving renovations (new windows, insulation, or solar panels) typically raise a home’s value and cut utility bills. While ROI on these can vary, buyers appreciate lower operating costs.

For example, installing energy-efficient windows can add lasting value. Smaller projects like fresh interior paint, replacing outdated light fixtures, or refinishing floors don’t have published ROI numbers but usually pay back well by making a home look modern and well-maintained.

‍

Why These Projects Pay Off

Many high-ROI projects improve both function and market appeal.  For instance, kitchen and bath updates directly enhance daily life with better layouts and finishes – and buyers tend to look at those rooms first.  In fact, housing experts note that “people buying a house look first at kitchens and baths”.  A modern, efficient kitchen or a sleek new bathroom not only makes living there more enjoyable, it also sells the home.  Curb-appeal improvements (like a tidy lawn, fresh paint, or new entry features) create a powerful first impression that attracts buyers and can speed up sales.  In short, these renovations make your property more useful and more desirable – which is why they can return such a high percentage of their cost.

Budget and Timeline Estimates

Here’s a rough idea of how much these upgrades cost and how long they take:

• Here’s a rough idea of how much these upgrades cost and how long they take:
  • Kitchen Remodel:
    £7,700–£15,400 for a minor refresh;
    £15,400–£50,000+ for a major remodel.
    Average projects run ~£20,800.
    Plan for roughly 6–10 weeks of work (plus several weeks of planning).
  • Bathroom Remodel:
    £2,700–£15,400 for a guest/half bath;
    £5,400–£23,000 for a primary bath.
    A midrange bath averages ~£9,200.
    Expect about 3–8 weeks total.
  • Entry/Garage Doors:
    A new front door or garage door typically costs £1,540–£3,100.
    These are quick projects – often done in a day or two – yet they can return nearly 200% ROI in value.
  • Siding or Exterior Replace:
    Replacing siding (fibre-cement or vinyl) is ~£11,600–£15,400 depending on home size.
    Installation usually takes 1–2 weeks. These can recoup ~80–88% of cost.
  • Deck or Patio Addition:
    A basic wood deck averages around £23–£46 per sq.ft (often £3,100–£9,200 for a mid-sized deck).
    Building one can take a few weeks.
    Decks offer solid ROI (~68–83%, depending on materials).
  • Painting & Landscaping:
    A fresh coat of paint (interior or exterior) or basic landscaping typically costs far less (often under £3,800 total) and can noticeably boost value.
    These are low-cost but high-impact improvements in curb appeal.

(Note: Actual costs vary by region and home specifics. These ranges are averages based on industry data angi.com.)

Tips for Boosting Value on a Budget

• Refinish instead of Replace.  If possible, update cabinetry, flooring or fixtures by refacing or refinishing rather than buying all new.  For example, refacing cabinets or giving them a fresh paint finish can modernize a kitchen at a fraction of replacement cost.  The same goes for flooring (refinish hardwood) or built-ins.
• Choose Mid-Range Materials.  High-end luxury finishes look nice but often won’t pay off.  Aim for quality mid-range materials.  Mid-priced cabinets, countertops or appliances give a fresh look and durability without overspending.  Contractors often advise spending only as much as you expect to recoup.
• Target “Bang for Buck” Updates.  Focus on changes with big visual impact: new countertops, paint, lighting and hardware can transform a room without huge expense.  In a bathroom, new fixtures and tile can look like a full remodel.  Curb-side, planting shrubs or adding mulch is cheap but makes the yard sparkle.
• Plan with a Buffer.  Always include a contingency (10–20%) in your budget for unexpected costs.  Careful planning and transparent quoting (as Nova Outline provides) help avoid surprises that erode ROI.

Conclusion

Investing in high-ROI renovations means you enjoy a better home and make your money back when you sell.  By focusing on kitchens, baths, and curb appeal – and by planning carefully with realistic budgets and timelines – both homeowners and investors can maximize their property’s value.  Whether you’re aiming to sell or simply improve your space, smart upgrades pay dividends.

Ready to get started? Consider taking the next step:

• Book a Free Consultation. Talk to a Nova Outline renovation specialist to discuss which upgrades make sense for your property and goals.
• Get a Quote. Request a detailed, transparent quote for your renovation project – no hidden fees, just clear pricing.
• Explore Our Portfolio. See examples of past projects for inspiration, from updated kitchens to curb-appeal makeovers.

‍