Home Projects That Boost Value

Whether you’re thinking about selling soon or planning to stay put for a while, it’s always wise to be intentional about which home improvements you take on. Your time, energy, and money matter—and not every upgrade delivers the payoff you might expect. As U.S. News Real Estate puts it:

“. . . not every home renovation project will increase the resale value of a home. Before you invest in a swimming pool or new addition, you should consider whether the project will pay itself off by getting prospective buyers in the door when it’s time to sell.”

That’s why, before picking up a hammer or calling a contractor, I always recommend talking with a trusted local real estate expert first—someone who understands your market and buyer trends. (Hint: I'm happy to help!)

Planning Ahead Pays Off

If there’s even a chance you might move in the next few years, now is the time to start prepping. Life has a way of throwing curveballs—new jobs, growing families, or shifting priorities can put your timeline into fast forward. The last thing you want is to rush through costly updates when you’re already under pressure.

🛠️ Smart upgrades now = less stress later.

By thinking ahead, you can space out improvements, stay on budget, and actually enjoy the benefits while you’re still living in your home. And when it’s time to sell, you’ll be ahead of the game with a home that’s already market-ready.

What Buyers Want (and What’s Actually Worth Doing)

Wondering which projects offer the biggest return? A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) outlines which updates typically yield the strongest ROI. (I’ll include the chart in the blog so you can see for yourself.)

If something on that list overlaps with what you were already planning—perfect! That likely means you’ll boost your home’s value while also improving your day-to-day living.

🧭 But keep in mind: this is national data. What matters most is what’s trending and in demand right here in Atlanta. That’s where a local expert comes in. As Ramsey Solutions notes:

“The best way to gauge what you can expect in terms of resale value on home improvements—especially if you’re planning to sell soon—is to talk to a real estate agent who is an expert in your market.”

Whether it’s bathroom upgrades, flooring, or adding a deck—knowing how similar homes are performing helps you make smarter, more targeted decisions.

⚠️ Just be careful not to over-improve. It’s easy to unintentionally outprice your home for the neighborhood. Buyers love upgrades, but they also want a home that fits the area. I always help clients walk that fine line so your updates shine without hurting your resale potential.

Bottom Line

Whether your move is one year away or five, making smart home updates today will help you love where you live and benefit when it’s time to sell.

Thinking about an upgrade and wondering if it’s worth it? Let’s talk strategy and make sure you’re investing in improvements that’ll actually pay off.

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