Are you thinking about making changes to your home? Knowing the best home upgrades that add value can help you spend your money wisely. In this article, we’ll explore eight home upgrades that can make your house worth more and four that are just a waste of money. Let’s look at the best ways to invest in your home!

Let’s look at what’s worth doing—and what isn’t.

1. Repaint and Refresh Rooms

Why it adds value:
A fresh coat of paint can completely change how a room feels. It costs little but makes a big difference. Buyers love clean, bright walls.

What to do:

• Choose neutral colors if you’re planning to sell.
• If it’s your forever home, pick any color you love.

Bonus Tip:
Regrouting tile in kitchens and bathrooms can make them look new again.

2. Update Lighting Fixtures

Why it adds value:
Outdated lighting makes a house feel old. Swapping in modern LED lights is cheap, saves energy, and improves mood.

Ideas to try:

• Replace old “boob” lights with flush mount fixtures.
• Install dimmer switches for ambiance.
• Upgrade outlet plates and light switches for a clean look.

3. Install New Flooring or Refinish Old Ones

Why it adds value:
Floors take a beating. Replacing worn carpet or refinishing wood floors gives your house a clean, modern feel.

Good choices:

• Laminate or vinyl plank (LVP): Affordable and popular.
• Engineered wood: Mid-range option with style.
• Hardwood: Expensive, but worth it for high-end homes.

Quick tip:
If you can’t replace carpet, get it professionally cleaned.

4. Open Up the Kitchen and Dining Area

Why it adds value:
Open-concept kitchens and dining rooms are in demand. Removing walls or combining spaces can make your home feel larger.

ROI Insight:
Remodeled kitchens can add about 5% to your home’s value (Zillow).

Smart upgrades:

• Add an island or breakfast bar.
• Upgrade lighting and cabinet hardware.

5. Add a Bathroom or Ensuite

Why it adds value:
More bathrooms = more value. A second bathroom is a game-changer, especially for larger families.

Ideas:

• Add a half-bath (powder room) if space is tight.
• Convert part of a bedroom into an ensuite.

Tip:
Don’t shrink bedrooms too much to make space. Keep layouts functional.

6. Upgrade or Extend Living Spaces

Why it adds value:
Extra usable space always helps. This includes finished basements, attic rooms, and home offices.

Popular options:

• Attic conversions
• Garage-to-living room conversions
• Second-story additions

Note:
Garage conversions work best in mild climates and areas with street parking.

7. Install a Utility or Laundry Room

Why it adds value:
Buyers appreciate functional laundry and utility rooms. These are simple but desirable spaces.

Things to include:

• Countertops for folding
• Cabinets for storage
• Durable flooring

ROI Tip:
A well-planned utility room can add up to 5% to your home’s value (HomeAdvisor).

8. Add a Granny Flat or Guest Suite

Why it adds value:
A separate living area adds flexibility. It can be used for guests, older parents, or as a rental unit.

Potential uses:

• Airbnb income
• Multi-generational living
• Private home office

Heads up:
Check with your city for zoning rules and permits before you build.

4 Common Home Upgrades That Are Money Pits

1. Swimming Pools

Why it’s risky:
Pools are expensive to install and maintain. In many areas, they don’t add enough value to cover the cost.

Problems:

• High upkeep
• Safety concerns for families with kids
• Limited use in cold climates

Only consider if:
You plan to stay for years and will use the pool often.

2. Luxury Kitchen or Bathroom Remodels Before Selling

Why it’s risky:
Spending $90,000 on a luxury kitchen won’t guarantee a return. Buyers might prefer to do their own updates.

Better idea:

• Do minor upgrades instead—paint, new fixtures, or cabinet refacing.

3. High-End Finishes in Mid-Range Neighborhoods

Why it’s risky:
Don’t outspend your area. Expensive fixtures won’t bring returns if nearby homes are basic.

Tip:
Look at nearby houses before you plan a major remodel. Stay in line with your neighborhood.

4. Whirlpool or Jetted Tubs

Why it’s risky:
They sound great but are rarely used. They’re bulky, expensive, and can become hard to clean.

Better choice:
A large walk-in shower with glass doors—modern and desirable.

Quick Comparison Table

Upgrade	Adds Value?	Notes
Paint & regrouting	Yes	Low cost, big visual impact
New flooring	Yes	Especially vinyl or refinished wood
Swimming pool	No	High cost, low ROI in most areas
Kitchen remodel (minor)	Yes	Focus on touch-ups
Luxury kitchen before selling	No	May not match buyer preferences
Utility room	Yes	Up to 5% value added
Jetted tubs	No	Maintenance-heavy and rarely used
Open kitchen/dining	Yes	Desirable layout for buyers

Final Thoughts

Home upgrades can boost comfort and property value, but not all are smart investments. Focus on low-cost, high-impact changes first. If you’re planning bigger projects, make sure they fit your goals and timeline.

Want to know which upgrades make the most sense for your home?

Free Consultation

Tiltin Windows, Doors and More has been serving Milwaukee, Wisconsin homeowners for over 25 years. From windows and doors to siding installations, our team knows how to add real value to your home.

Ready to upgrade smartly?
Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we can help improve your home with lasting results.