20 Home Improvements With the Best Return on Investment In Florida

We’re proud homeowners here in Florida, and we know how important it is to make smart choices when it comes to home improvements. Whether you’re looking to sell your house or just boost its overall value, it’s always better to get the most bang for your buck! 

That’s why we’ve put together this blog post to guide you through 20 fantastic home improvements that offer a great return on investment (ROI) right here in the Sunshine State. 

So, sit back, relax, and let’s upgrade your home with these 20 improvements!

1. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, so improving your home’s curb appeal can significantly impact its value. Simple upgrades such as landscaping, exterior painting, and installing a new entry door can make a substantial difference. According to industry experts, enhancing curb appeal can yield an ROI of up to 200%.

2. Upgrade the Garage Door

Replacing your garage door might not be the most glamorous improvement, but it can significantly impact your home’s value. Modern garage doors made from durable materials like aluminum and fiberglass enhance aesthetics and functionality. On average, homeowners can expect to recoup around 98.3% of the cost of a new garage door.

3. Refinish or Install Hardwood Floors

Flooring plays a crucial role in a home’s appeal and value. Refinishing existing hardwood floors or installing new ones can provide a high return on investment. According to a report from the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, refinishing hardwood floors yields an ROI of 147%, while installing new hardwood floors offers a return of 118%.

4. Update the Kitchen

The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, making it a prime area for improvement. Renovating the kitchen can yield a substantial return on investment, with minor remodels recouping around 87% of the cost and major remodels recouping approximately 80%. Focus on upgrading countertops, cabinets, and appliances to attract potential buyers.

5. Renovate the Bathroom/Upgrade Fixtures

Bathrooms are another high-impact area for home improvements. Remodeling a bathroom can provide a return on investment of around 81% for an addition and approximately 71% for a complete renovation. 

Simple upgrades to bathroom fixtures can also go a long way in improving your home’s value. Consider replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and toilets with modern, water-efficient options. This improvement offers a high return on investment and enhances your bathroom’s overall look and functionality.

6. Add An Addition To Your Home

Adding a new addition to your home can significantly increase its value. Converting an attic into a family room, adding a new room or bathroom, or even creating an outdoor kitchen or garden area can yield solid returns when it comes time to sell. The best return on investment is achieved by adding functional and livable space to your home.

7. Install Energy-Efficient Windows

In Florida’s hot climate, energy efficiency is a top priority for homeowners. Installing energy-efficient windows reduces energy consumption and can boost your property’s value. Buyers are increasingly looking for homes with features that promote energy efficiency, making this improvement a wise investment.

8. Upgrade Doors

Upgrading your doors can have a significant impact on both aesthetics and functionality. Consider replacing old doors with energy-efficient models, or opt for stylish options that enhance the overall look of your home. Upgraded doors can provide a return on investment of up to 100%.

9. Create Outdoor Living Spaces

Florida’s pleasant climate makes outdoor living spaces highly desirable. Investing in a patio, deck, or screened-in porch can significantly increase your home’s appeal and value. Outdoor living spaces offer a great return on investment, with homeowners recouping around 75% of the cost.

10. Install Solar Panels

As renewable energy becomes increasingly popular, installing solar panels can be a smart investment. Not only do solar panels reduce energy costs, but they also make your home more attractive to eco-conscious buyers. Solar panels offer an excellent return on investment in Florida, where sunshine is abundant.

11. Update the Roof

A well-maintained roof is essential for any home, and replacing an old or damaged roof can significantly increase its value. Additionally, a new roof provides peace of mind for potential buyers. Roof replacements offer a high return on investment, with homeowners recouping the entire cost.

12. Add a Swimming Pool

A swimming pool is a sought-after feature in Florida, providing a luxurious and enjoyable addition to any home. While the return on investment for a swimming pool can vary, it remains desirable for many buyers, particularly in warm climates like Florida.

13. Upgrade HVAC Systems

A functional and efficient HVAC system is essential in Florida’s hot and humid climate. Upgrading your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems improves comfort and increases your home’s value. Energy-efficient HVAC systems can provide a solid return on investment.

14. Create a Home Office

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of having a dedicated home office. Creating a functional and well-designed home office space can attract potential buyers who value remote work capabilities. A well-designed home office offers a good return on investment.

15. Install Smart Home Features & Improve Home Security

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Integrating features such as smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras can enhance the appeal and value of your home. Smart home features offer a return on investment of up to 10%.

Investing in smart home security measures will enhance your peace of mind and increase your home’s value. Upgrades such as motion sensor lighting and sturdy locks can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. 

Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a number of benefits, such as energy savings and remote control. Installing a smart thermostat can increase the value of your home by up to 3%.

16. Repaint The Interior and Exterior

A fresh coat of paint can transform the look of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Repainting the interior and exterior walls in neutral, modern colors can yield a high return on investment. It’s a cost-effective improvement that can significantly enhance your home’s value.

17. Upgrade Lighting and Enhance Outdoor Lighting

Lighting is a crucial element that significantly contributes to the ambiance and functionality of any living space. By opting for energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures, you can enhance energy efficiency and attract potential buyers. Upgrading your lighting system ensures a good return on investment while creating a more desirable living environment.

In addition to indoor lighting, outdoor lighting plays a vital role in ensuring your home’s safety and security and adds to your property’s overall charm. By installing attractive and energy-efficient outdoor lighting fixtures, you can effectively showcase your home’s exterior features and landscaping, thereby increasing its appeal to potential buyers. Upgrading your outdoor lighting offers a solid return on investment.

18. Hardwood floors

 Hardwood floors are a popular choice for many buyers, so if your home has carpet, consider upgrading to hardwood. This can be a costly project, but it can also increase the value of your home by up to 15%.

19. Exterior Siding

 The exterior of your home is the first thing that potential buyers see, so it’s important to make a good impression. Consider replacing your siding with new material if it is old or damaged. This can improve curb appeal and increase the value of your home by up to 10%.

20. Decor

The way you decorate your home can also affect its value. Staging your home with attractive furniture and decor can make it more appealing to potential buyers and increase its value by up to 10%.

Trending Upgrades in Florida

When it comes to updating or remodeling your home in Florida, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest trends in the area. Rather than simply following general home design trends, understanding the factors that influence the local real estate market is key.

In recent years, Florida residents have noticed a noticeable increase in environmental consciousness. This shift has created a demand for energy-efficient appliances and smart home features that offer a high return on investment (ROI). These upgrades not only help homeowners save on utility costs but are also highly desirable amenities.

To better understand the trends specific to your area in Florida, it’s advisable to research recently sold properties. Listing websites such as Zillow and Redfin can provide valuable insights into the features and upgrades that have been incorporated into these properties. You may discover that many of these homes have undergone renovations involving energy-efficient appliances, smart home technology, or other popular amenities. 

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When improving a property, it is important to avoid making common mistakes. Two of the most common mistakes are:

• Ignoring local trends. When renovating a property, it is important to consider the local market. What are the most popular features in homes that are selling in the area? What are the most common design choices? By paying attention to local trends, you can make sure that your renovations will add value to your property.
• Spending too much money. It is important to budget carefully when renovating a property. While there are some high-ROI renovations that can be made, it is important to avoid overspending. For example, spending $100,000 on a pool may not add $100,000 in value to your property. It is important to carefully consider the potential return on investment for each renovation project.

Did you know that creating a home office space can also add value to your home? In our blog post “Creating a Home Office Space – Small Improvements That Can Make a Big Difference,” we share tips on how to create a functional and stylish home office space that will impress potential buyers. 

Conclusion

When considering home improvements in Florida, focusing on projects that offer the best return on investment is crucial. Enhancing curb appeal, upgrading key areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, and investing in energy-efficient features are all smart choices. Strategic improvements can increase your home’s value and attract potential buyers in the competitive Florida real estate market. Remember to consult with local professionals to ensure that you choose improvements that align with the preferences and needs of Florida homebuyers.

To embark on your property improvement journey with SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors, contact us at (813) 400-3329. Our dedicated team is eager to discuss your project, provide personalized recommendations, and guide you through the process. Don’t let common mistakes hinder your progress. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we’ll help you achieve outstanding results that exceed your expectations.

Remember, when it comes to property improvement, SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors is your trusted partner in Tampa.