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Remodeling Projects That Offer the Best Value at Resale in 2025

Updated: Jul 27

By Sarah Breck — Boise real estate agent helping buyers, sellers, and relocators make confident moves with strategy, savvy, and a human touch.


What Boise Homeowners Need to Know Before They Renovate


Thinking about upgrading your kitchen before selling? Or finally adding that dreamy primary suite? Before you swing a hammer or hire a contractor, let’s talk ROI—because not every home project will pay you back when it’s time to sell.

According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), some of the most valuable updates are actually the simplest. And if you’re planning to sell your Boise home in the next year or two, you’ll want to prioritize smart, strategic improvements that actually move the needle with buyers.


The Highest-Value Remodeling Projects for 2025

Believe it or not, replacing your front door may be more valuable than a complete kitchen overhaul. Yep—especially if it’s steel.


Here are the top 12 remodeling projects ranked by estimated cost recovery at resale:

  • New steel front door – 100%

  • Closet renovation – 83%

  • Fiberglass front door – 80%

  • Vinyl windows – 74%

  • Wood windows – 71%

  • Basement conversion – 71%

  • Attic conversion – 67%

  • Full kitchen remodel – 60%

  • Minor kitchen update – 60%

  • Bathroom addition – 56%

  • New primary suite – 54%

  • Bathroom renovation – 50%


Pro tip: If you’re prepping your Boise home for sale, focus on upgrades that are highly visible and cost-efficient. Buyers love the idea of a fresh, move-in-ready space—but they’re rarely willing to pay top dollar for highly personalized or overly luxurious upgrades.



The Joy Score: What Feels Good vs. What Sells

Not all home improvements are about ROI. Some are about joy. The NAR’s report also includes a “Joy Score,” which ranks how satisfied homeowners felt after completing each project. Unsurprisingly, things like kitchen upgrades and closet renovations brought big smiles—even if they didn’t bring full financial returns.

Jessica Lautz, NAR’s Deputy Chief Economist, put it best:

“There’s a disparity between the joy experienced post-remodel and the actual cost recovery.”

So while you might love your navy accent wall or vintage clawfoot tub, that doesn’t mean your buyer will.


Why Remodeling Projects That Offer the Best Value at Resale Matter in Boise

In a market like Boise, where the average home is over 40 years old, many properties need updates just to compete. And with nearly 46% of today’s buyers saying they won’t compromise on condition, remodeling isn’t just a bonus—it’s a marketing strategy.

From fresh paint to energy-efficient windows, these cost-effective updates can help make your home feel modern, clean, and market-ready.

Boise buyers in 2025 are especially drawn to homes that are well-maintained and move-in ready. Remodeling projects that offer the best value at resale—like new doors, windows, and small-scale kitchen upgrades—help justify your asking price and reduce time on market.


Why You Should Call Your Agent Before You Remodel

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. According to Angi’s State of Home Spending report, 43% of homeowners say remodeling, maintenance, and repairs stress them out.


But here’s the good news: A real estate agent (hi, it’s me 👋) can help you decide where to spend—and where to save. The NAR report shows that top agent-recommended projects before listing include:

  • A full interior paint job (or at least key rooms)

  • A new roof if it’s needed

  • Updating front doors and windows for curb appeal


You don’t need to over-improve your home. As Angie Hicks (co-founder of Angi) says:

“Keep up with the Joneses—but don’t beat the Joneses.”

In other words, if your neighbors have two bathrooms, don’t add a third just to stand out. Focus on updates that fit the neighborhood—and the buyer pool.


Ready to Remodel Smart?

If you’re thinking of selling your Boise home in the next 6–12 months, I’d love to help you create a personalized pre-listing plan.


✅ We’ll talk about which remodeling projects make the most sense 

✅ I’ll connect you with trusted local contractors 

✅ And we’ll make sure you’re not wasting money on upgrades that won’t pay off



About Sarah – With over 16 years of entrepreneurial experience, Sarah blends grace, grit, and expert guidance to create a real estate experience that’s as strategic as it is personal. Passionate about empowering her clients—especially first-time buyers and women—she’s dedicated to turning complex market moves into confident, seamless transitions in Boise and the Treasure Valley.


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