Over the last decade home improvement has become an addiction for many U.S. homeowners, and Northern Va is no exception. Just channel serf through any cable providers programs and you will find a vast selection of home improvement, decorating, and real estate shows. This has become such a passion that about 2% of all U.S. economic activity is generated from home improvements and repairs. Harvard University’s Joint Center on Hosing Studies estimates that in 2015 the Home improvement industry will exceed record highs of 324 Billion hit back in 2007 before the great recession. These investments are not only required maintenance and repairs but also the amount of discretionary spending on remodel projects continues to increase. Homeowners primarily undertake these projects as lifestyle improvements but at the same time want to increase the value of their home. Many projects that improve a homeowner’s lifestyle may not always be the best return on investment (ROI) when it comes time to sell.

Many years of real estate experience as well as annual research of the Best Return on Home Remodeling Projects continually reminds me of one important fact. Many homeowners as well as contractors are surprised at which projects have the best return on investment. Since 2002 Remodeling Magazine has released their annual report of Cost vs. Value for home remodeling projects and is an excellent resource. The only caveat I will issue is that every home, location, and condition is unique so please consult a knowledgeable and experienced REALTOR for advice. (Insert plug here for my services)

Since 2005 a trend can be seen in the top home remodel projects in Northern Va. As you can see by the list below most of the items in the top 10 are replacement items that improve a homes exterior and integrity. This reinforces the fact that second to only location, Curb Appeal is very important to home owners and home buyers in Northern Va.

Curb appeal alone does not bring on a fast sale at top dollar and exceptional return on investment; homebuyers are always looking for an updated kitchen and/or bathrooms. A home with spectacular curb appeal and a 1975 kitchen or harvest gold bathrooms may face challenges on the open market. The reason these projects do not normally take the top spot for Cost vs. Value is that these projects can become very expensive. These rooms are the places that home owners put more of their own personal tastes in design and layout which can drive up costs hence driving the projects lower on the list of monetary returns.

Here is the top 10 home remodeling projects in Northern VA for the highest return on investment.

Project Type

Finish Level

Job Cost (avg)

ROI

Roof Replacement

Midrange

$18,669

80.4%

Garage Door Replacement

Upscale

$2,966

80.9%

Window Replacement (vinyl)

Midrange

$10,417

82%

Minor Kitchen Remodel

Midrange

$19,709

82.4%

Siding Replacement (cement)

Upscale

$14,299

83.6%

Window Replacement (wood)

Upscale

$11,441

86.2%

Garage Door Replacement

Midrange

$1,610

91.4%

Stone Veneer Accent

Midrange

$7,251

95.4%

Deck Addition (wood)

Midrange

$10,204

95.7%

Entry Door Replacement (Steel)

Midrange

$1,241

113.1%

(The report covers all of the Washington DC metro are including the Northern Va area, for the full report click here. )

This report should be considered by homeowners when deciding on what home improvement projects to undertake in Northern VA, but should not be the foremost influence. A primary residence is a “home” first and an investment second. The most important return on investment when considering which home improvement projects to pick is the enjoyment that one will get from the improvement. This is especially important with homeowners that plan on residing in a property for a long period of time. The home is our castle and the enjoyment and memories we make in it cannot be measured by money alone so make that next home improvement project one that best improves your life.