Resale value was far from homeowners’ most important consideration when remodeling last year, according to data from the National Association of REALTORS’® 2025 Remodeling Impact Report.
Based on consumer surveys and Realtor reports, the association calculated “Joy Scores” for a number of household renovations and found that the upgrades that brought homeowners the most joy in 2024 were primary bedroom suites, kitchens and new roofing, which all earned Joy Scores of 10 (the highest possible score). Bathroom renovations and kitchen remodels followed close behind at 9.8 at 9.7, respectively.
Realtors report there’s been an increased demand for these kinds of upgrades in the past few years. However, they estimate that homeowners only recoup 54% of their renovation cost when adding a primary suite and 50% when doing a full bathroom renovation, NAR said.
“Homeowners undertake remodeling projects for numerous reasons, but what remains intriguing is the disparity between the joy experienced post-model and the actual cost recovery,” Jessica Lautz, NAR’s deputy chief economist, said in a press release. “While homeowners take pride in seeing their personal tastes and design choices come to life, Realtors may recommend different strategies to enhance the property’s resale value.”
Among the top renovations with the highest cost recovery? Front doors. Homeowners who opt for new steel front doors are likely to recover 100% of the cost on resale, while those who install new fiberglass front doors are likely to recover 83%.
Projects like fresh paint and new roofing are also often recommended to sellers, as they’re likely to boost resale value.
Just 18% of remodelers undertook projects for the sake of preparing to sell, however. Homeowners were far more likely to update their homes for their own benefit, taking on projects like upgrading worn-out finishes and improving energy efficiency simply because they wanted a change.
Homeowners cited improved functionality and livability as the most important outcomes after a home renovation, followed by durable and long-lasting results and enhanced aesthetics.
After remodeling, 64% of homeowners said they had a greater desire to spend time in their homes, while 46% said they enjoyed their living spaces more.
If money were no option, 92% of consumers said they would remodel more areas of their home.