Which Renovations For Your Utah Home Will Yield The Highest Return?

When it comes to selling your home in Utah—whether in Park City, Salt Lake City, or the surrounding areas—making smart renovations can mean the difference between a quick sale and a stale listing. Recent data from the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry reveals homeowners spent over $603 billion on renovations in 2024, a $183 billion increase since 2020. Clearly, both sellers and buyers are increasingly focused on home improvements.

If you're considering renovations to maximize your home's value, here’s a detailed look at which upgrades attract buyers most and deliver the best return on investment (ROI) for sellers.

What Upgrades Do Buyers Want Most?

Buyers today want move-in-ready homes. A striking 56% say it’s “very important” that a home requires no repairs. The following upgrades are highly sought-after:

- Kitchen upgrades: 48%
- New roofing: 43%
- Bathroom renovations: 35%
- New interior paint: 32%
- Top-to-bottom kitchen renovations: 26%

These improvements often help buyers visualize themselves in the space without the hassle of immediate repairs or remodeling.

Renovations That Deliver the Best ROI for Utah Sellers

While buyer preferences guide what’s attractive, sellers need to focus on renovations that offer the highest return. The data identifies these as top performers:

1. New front doors — 90% ROI
A new front door is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost curb appeal and make a strong first impression.

2. Closet renovations — 83% ROI
Storage is a priority for many buyers, especially in active Utah communities where outdoor gear needs space.

3. New vinyl windows — 74% ROI
These improve energy efficiency while enhancing aesthetics.

4. New wood windows — 71% ROI
Adds charm and better insulation, appealing in scenic areas like Park City.

5. Basement conversion to living area — 71% ROI
Extra living space is a major draw for growing families and remote workers alike.

“Even modest upgrades like a new front door or a fresh coat of paint can have an outsized impact on your home’s appeal and final sale price.” – UtahDigs Real Estate Insights

Renovate Smart, Sell Strong

Based on these insights and our experience working with buyers and sellers across Utah, here are some tips:

- Focus on Move-In-Ready: Buyers want homes they can enjoy immediately, without costly repairs.
- Prioritize Cost-Effective Upgrades: Small investments like painting or a new front door pay off big.
- Know Your Market: For example, in Park City, rustic charm with energy-efficient windows might be especially valuable.
- Consult Your Agent: Use this data during listing consultations to set realistic renovation budgets and expectations.

If you’re curious about how these renovations perform specifically in your neighborhood or want personalized advice tailored to Salt Lake City or Park City, reach out to one of our expert agents at UtahDigs.com.

Ready to maximize your home's value? Start with smart renovations that buyers actually want — and watch your ROI soar!

For more expert advice on Utah real estate trends and home selling tips, check out other articles on our blog at UtahDigs.com.