The Renovations That Actually Pay Off When You Sell
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just staring at your home thinking “it could really use a glow-up,” the real question is always the same: Which renovations actually boost your property value?
Your return on investment will always depend on your market, your budget, and what buyers are hungry for, but year after year, some upgrades consistently behave like money in the bank.
And yes — RE/MAX Canada actually surveyed brokers and agents across the country to find out which renos deliver the biggest payoff. I’m keeping every stat below so you get the full credibility of the RE/MAX data… just explained in a more relatable, Marlon-approved voice.
Why Renovations Have Become a Big Deal
Over the last few years, Canadians adapted to low inventory, rising prices, and the whole “post-pandemic shuffle.” Suddenly, renovations weren’t just something people did after watching too much HGTV — they became a strategy.
• Sellers were upgrading to attract better offers
• Buyers were picking fixer-uppers to get into their dream neighbourhoods
• Homeowners were choosing to stay put and improve instead of moving
Across the board, renovations took centre stage.
So… what are Canadians actually investing in, and which ones pay off the most? Here’s what the RE/MAX survey found.
9 Renovations With the Best Return on Investment
(Backed by RE/MAX Canada Survey Data)
1. Kitchen Renovations
93.5% of RE/MAX brokers said the kitchen gives the best ROI.
Updated cabinets, counters, appliances — the whole deal. Buyers want move-in ready, and nobody’s lining up to live through a kitchen reno right after closing. A modern kitchen sells fast and sells strong.
2. Bathroom Upgrades
61.3% of brokers ranked bathrooms as a major value booster.
Think updated vanities, clean tile, modern fixtures — buyers want that spa feeling without having to gut anything themselves.
3. Fresh Interior Paint
58% of brokers said paint is the cheapest, easiest, highest-impact upgrade.
Light, neutral colours = bigger, brighter, cleaner. It’s staging and renovation rolled into one.
4. New Flooring
45.2% of RE/MAX brokers said flooring upgrades are a buyer magnet.
Hardwood or quality tile beats old carpet every single time. And yes, sometimes pulling up carpet reveals a hardwood jackpot.
5. Finished Basement
16.1% of brokers said finished basements are a strong selling feature.
More usable square footage means more value, whether it’s a family room, office, extra bedroom, or guest suite.
6. Outdoor Projects & Landscaping
12.9% of brokers pointed to landscaping and outdoor living.
People want great yards, decks, patios, hot tubs — the whole “backyard living” lifestyle surged after the pandemic and never slowed down.
7. New Roof
Also at 12.9%, a new roof ties with outdoor upgrades.
Not glamorous, but absolutely appreciated. Buyers love knowing they won’t be dropping tens of thousands anytime soon.
8. Open-Concept Layout
9.7% of brokers said eliminating unnecessary walls pays off.
Older homes instantly feel bigger, brighter, and more modern. A big reno, yes — but a high-impact one.
9. Replacing Windows
6.5% of brokers said new windows lead to stronger offers.
Energy efficiency, better curb appeal, and one less expensive project for the buyer.
Thinking About Renovating or Selling?
Whether you’re planning to list soon or want to make your home more functional for the long haul, targeted upgrades can make a massive difference — both in your day-to-day living and at resale.
If you want to know which renovations make the most sense for your area and your property, I’m happy to walk you through the data and strategy so you can make smart, confident decisions.
Ready when you are.