Ten Higher ROI Home Improvements for Better Resale Value

Thinking about investing in a few improvements to boost your home’s resale value but still requiring the best return on investment (ROI) for the chosen upgrades?

You could drop a large chunk of change on high-end appliances or that elaborate outdoor kitchen you’ve always dreamed of while firing up your trusty Weber grill; however, these very personalized, costly upgrades usually do not fully generate the return in resale value most people expect.

In Central Ohio, the best value-driving home improvements are usually the ones that improve curb appeal, boost energy efficiency, upgrade kitchen & bath aesthetics, and create a “move-in ready” condition for the new owners — especially because buying decisions must factor in impacts from Central Ohio’s four distinct seasons, older housing inventory currently on the market, and rising utility costs.

Here are the upgrades that typically produce the strongest return on investment (ROI) in Central Ohio markets according to ChatGPT:

1. Garage Door Replacement

One of the highest-ROI projects nationally and especially strong in suburban Ohio markets like our incredible hometown, Columbus.

Why it works:

• Major curb appeal boost
• Lower cost
• Signals good maintenance
• Important in snowy and rainy climates

Typical ROI: Often 90% to 120%+

2. Minor Kitchen Remodel

A full luxury kitchen remodel rarely pays back fully in Central Ohio. A smart “refresh” usually performs better and holds higher appeal for the greatest number of potential buyers. Trusted Coatings has several beautiful, refinished kitchen & bath cabinet projects we are very proud of…

Best upgrades:

• New countertops
• Painted/refaced cabinets
• Updated hardware
• Modern lighting
• Stainless appliances
• Neutral backsplash

Typical ROI: ~70% to 90%

3. Bathroom Updates

Updated bathrooms matter a lot in older Central Ohio homes. Trusted Coatings can definitely help with all your painting and wallpapering upgrades…

High-impact improvements:

• Fresh paint and wallpaper
• New vanity
• Fresh tile
• Better lighting
• Frameless glass shower
• Modern fixtures
• Exhaust fan improvements

Typical ROI: ~60% to 80%

4. Exterior Siding or Paint

A home’s exterior condition heavily affects buyer perception. Exterior paint is the first defense against the elements but also plays a key role in accentuating the style of the house to potential buyers. Exterior coverage is a Trusted Coatings specialty…

Best options:

• Fiber cement siding
• Vinyl siding replacement
• Fresh, neutral exterior paint
• Trim repair

Typical ROI: Often 70% to 90%+

5. Energy-Efficient Windows

Especially attractive due to heating costs in our Central Ohio winters. Trusted Coatings can help protect and seal windows inside and outside too…

Buyers appreciate:

• Lower utility bills
• Better insulation
• Reduced drafts/noise

Typical ROI: Strong buyer appeal and faster sales

6. Finished Basement

Especially valuable in Central Ohio because basements are common features in housing designs around here and buyers want extra living space for family & friends gathered during long winters. Trusted Coatings can help with painting and staining basements…

Beneficial uses:

• Family/media room
• Gym
• Home office
• Guest suite

Important to note:

• Moisture control is critical
• Waterproofing may matter more than finishes

Typical ROI: ~50% to 75%

7. Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Huge value in older Midwest homes. Refinishing is a practical way to create impact as soon as potential buyers walk into your home. Trusted Coatings refinishes all floor types…

Why this matters:

• Buyers strongly prefer hardwood over worn carpet
• Refinishing is inexpensive

Typical ROI: Often excellent due to lower project cost versus replacement

8. HVAC Replacement

Not glamorous or aesthetically pleasing, but very important in Central Ohio.

High-value improvements:

• New furnace
• Central AC
• Heat pump
• Smart thermostat

Buyers notice:

• Age of mechanical systems
• Utility efficiency
• Reliability during winters

Typical ROI: Stronger buyer confidence and faster sales

9. Landscaping & Curb Appeal

Often underestimated but crucial to making a first impression and differentiating your house from all the others on the market. Trusted Coatings can fulfill all power washing needs…

Strong improvements:

• Power washing exteriors, sidewalks, and driveways
• Fresh mulch
• Trimmed shrubs
• Front walkway repair
• Porch lighting
• Clean lawn
• Simple outdoor seating area

Typical ROI: Can dramatically improve first impressions and speed up the sale

10. Roof Replacement (If Needed)

A newer roof can remove a major buyer objection.

Especially important because:

• Central Ohio snow, rainstorms, and freeze-then-thaw cycles wreak havoc on roofs
• Insurance concerns matter more now

If the roof is aging:

• Replacing it may help more than cosmetic upgrades

Typical ROI: It depends on the roof work done but can dramatically improve first impressions, instill confidence in the home’s durability and protection capabilities

Best “Bang for the Buck” Combination

For many Central Ohio homes, the ROI sweet spot is:

1. Painting throughout – interior and exterior
2. Refinish floors
3. Minor kitchen refresh
4. Bathroom refresh
5. Landscaping
6. Lighting upgrades

This cost-effective combination often outperforms a massive remodel by returning higher resale value for the improvement investment levels. Trusted Coatings is here to help you maximize your resale value in Central Ohio. For a free quote on all your painting, staining, refinishing, sealing, power washing, and wallpapering needs, please click here: Request a TC Quote