What Remodeling Projects Have the Best ROI in Orange County?

If you’re like most homeowners in Orange County, you know that home remodeling projects are a big deal, and one of your primary concerns will be your return on investment; the profit or benefit you expect to gain for the money and effort you expend. Strategic, thoughtful home renovations can boost ROI by giving you a better quality of life and improving your home’s resale value.

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on the types of remodeling projects that are best for you if you’re looking to compete in Orange County's unique housing market. We’ll focus on the benefits of kitchen, bathroom, flooring, exterior, and cosmetic renovations, among others, giving you a comprehensive list of projects that can make your home as appealing as possible!

Kitchen Renovations: Consistently High Returns

Kitchen renovations are among the best ways to increase ROI in Orange County, as they consistently result in high returns. Minor-to-moderate kitchen remodels are often better than full-on luxury overhauls, as many kitchens will have some features that don’t need updating and can save you money. For the best results, your remodel should focus on cabinets, countertops, lighting, and appliances. These will improve your kitchen’s essential functions, which is a bigger priority for Orange County buyers, who prefer simple functionality rather than luxury that sacrifices usability.

Bathroom Remodels That Add Real Value

Aside from kitchens, bathroom remodels are the next hot commodity that helps Orange County homes sell fast and at higher prices. Oftentimes, cosmetic updates to existing bathrooms can do the trick. Updating vanities, adding mirrors, and replacing lighting and fixtures can go a long way towards sprucing up a bathroom. However, if you have the budget, major spa-style additions such as walk-in showers, freestanding tubs, and other accessories can really entice buyers. Remember, also, not to go overboard with your aesthetics. The best bathrooms feature a neutral, timeless design that can appeal to many buyers.

Interior Aesthetic Upgrades with Big Visual Impact

Interior upgrades to your home can help attract buyers with instant aesthetic appeal that might make up for older appliances or an outdated layout. If you have dated carpet or tile floors, consider replacing them with vinyl planks or more expensive, but better-looking, hardwood. If your interior walls are brightly-colored, consider repainting with a more current palette of neutral tones like whites and grays. Adding new light fixtures and replacing door hardware like knobs, handles, and locks can also bring your interior up to more buyer’s standards.

Above all, when updating your interior, focus on what’s affordable and gets you the most bang for your buck. Seemingly small changes can often have major transformative effects. Things like refreshed trim and brand new fixtures, doorknobs, and hardware are great for prepping before listing, offering a high ROI for less cost.

Enhancing Curb Appeal and Exterior Systems for a Great First Impression

Your home’s external appearance is arguably its most eye-catching feature, since first impressions are everything in real estate. A home with pristine landscaping, an inviting front entrance, and features like outdoor lighting have a welcoming effect that can stick with buyers long after they do a walk-through. Consider external upgrades like paint touch-ups, window boxes for plants, and visible house numbers to add more pizzazz to your property.

Of course, larger external renovations such as roof replacements, siding, and HVAC upgrades also have a big effect on buyers, giving them comfort in the long-term durability of your home. Homes with garages, new doors are consistently one of the top ROI projects in Orange County, making them a smart choice. External upgrades have a huge emotional impact on buyers, making them fall in love with a home at first sight; plus, they’re often necessary for passing inspections, so it’s good to get a jump on them.

Energy Efficiency Improvements with Long-Term Payoff

In today’s climate-conscious world, energy efficiency renovations are a major selling point and source of ROI. Adding green energy features such as double-pane windows, smart thermostats, and green insulation can amp up your home’s value by attracting socially-conscious buyers and pleasing inspectors. Among the energy efficient remodels you can pursue are adding solar panels, which are estimated to increase home retail value in Orange County by 5-10%, and are often eligible for federal credits on installation costs. Buyers who value sustainability and long-term utility savings will leap at the chance to buy an energy efficient home.

Small, Strategic Fixes Before Selling

If you can’t manage major renovations before selling due to time or budget constraints, a number of small, strategic fixes can quickly boost your home's ROI and resale value. Adding or updating exterior features such as decks, patios, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens is low-cost and high-reward, as entertainment-focused buyers in Orange County are often enticed by such features due to the area’s climate and lifestyle. Effective interior and outdoor staging also increases buyer imagination, allowing them to envision themselves in your home.

Other easy fixes you can undertake before a quick sale include deep cleaning, staging, and decluttering. A clean house is one of the most appealing things to buyers, and making an effort to replace old, damaged hardware, fix broken doors and cabinets, and perform other basic updates can make it clear to buyers that you value your home and their experience. These cost-effective fixes can help prep your house for quick listing, giving you an ROI boost on short notice.

Real-World Seller Scenario: What to Prioritize

While all of the above options are great remodel choices, they can seem overwhelming all at once. To contextualize exactly what types of renovations might be best for you, we can consider two different types of homeowner and how they should prioritize renovations: firstly, one who plans to sell in three to six months, and secondly, one who intends to stay in their home for five or more years before selling.

If you are a homeowner who plans to sell on short notice, the best types of updates to make to your home are cosmetic updates. Small fixes to things like cabinets, doors, windows, interior and exterior paint, flooring, and appliances are the best use of a short timeline and a potentially small budget, as they help freshen up your home and give it a facelift for a quick sale. 

By contrast, if you plan on staying in your home for a few years or more, prioritize updates to your house’s energy efficiency and quality of lifestyle. These may include major projects such as a complete kitchen or bathroom remodel, adding solar panels, roofing, and a new HVAC system, or complete electrical and appliance upgrades. These fixes not only prep your home for eventual sale, but allow it to be more livable and comfortable for you while you stay.

Key Takeaway: Renovate Strategically for Maximum ROI

Making smart, specific improvements to your home that attract house hunters in the Orange County area is a great investment in today’s housing market. It may seem tempting to sell fast without upgrades, but remember that even basic updates can increase your ROI. Make your ROI the central part of every decision you make. This will help you get the most from your remodel.

Aside from the advice offered here, consulting local experts in Orange County renovations is a smart option to keep in mind when considering a renovation. At Revive, renovation experts offer professional guidance, access to in-network contractors, and project oversight to make your remodeling experience as smooth as possible. If you’re looking for a high ROI, consulting Revive is your best bet!