Not every renovation pays for itself at resale. Some return more than you spend. Others are money you’ll enjoy but never recoup. Knowing the difference before you start is the difference between a smart investment and a $50,000 lesson.
| Project | Avg. Cost (GA/FL) | Value Added | ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garage door replacement | $4,000–$5,500 | $4,500–$5,200 | 95–103% |
| Interior paint (whole home) | $4,000–$8,000 | $6,000–$12,000 | 150–200% |
| Minor kitchen remodel | $15,000–$35,000 | $13,000–$28,000 | 75–85% |
| Bathroom renovation (mid-range) | $15,000–$30,000 | $10,000–$22,000 | 65–75% |
| Deck addition (composite) | $12,000–$22,000 | $9,000–$17,000 | 70–80% |
| Basement finishing (GA) | $25,000–$60,000 | $20,000–$45,000 | 70–80% |
| Hardwood flooring | $8,000–$18,000 | $6,500–$14,000 | 70–80% |
| Screened porch (GA/FL) | $15,000–$30,000 | $12,000–$25,000 | 75–85% |
| Major kitchen remodel | $55,000–$100,000 | $35,000–$65,000 | 55–70% |
| Primary suite addition | $100,000–$200,000 | $55,000–$120,000 | 50–65% |
| Swimming pool | $40,000–$80,000 | $15,000–$30,000 | 30–45% |
| Home office conversion | $10,000–$30,000 | $5,000–$15,000 | 40–55% |
Your renovated home’s value is constrained by comparable sales within a half-mile radius. A $200,000 kitchen in a $400,000 neighborhood doesn’t create a $600,000 home — it creates a $425,000–$450,000 home with a very nice kitchen. The rule of thumb: keep total renovation spend under 20–25% of post-renovation home value if selling within 5 years, or 30–35% if staying 10+ years. Check recent comparable sales on Zillow or Realtor.com before finalizing your budget.
Georgia generally sees higher ROI on interior renovations — kitchens, bathrooms, and basement finishes perform well because buyers in Metro Atlanta expect updated interiors. Florida sees higher ROI on outdoor living, hurricane-hardening (impact windows, roof upgrades), and energy efficiency improvements. Impact-rated windows in South Florida can reduce insurance premiums by $1,000–$3,000 annually, creating ROI through cost savings rather than resale value alone.
If you’re staying 10+ years, ROI percentages matter less than quality of life. A pool at 35% ROI still provides a decade of daily enjoyment. A home office at 45% ROI still eliminates a commute. If you’re selling within 3–5 years, focus on high-ROI cosmetic upgrades: paint, flooring, minor kitchen updates, and landscaping. The National Association of Realtors publishes annual remodeling impact reports with regional data.
Licensed in Georgia and Florida with over 15 years of experience. Detailed estimates, milestone-based payments, and dedicated project management on every job.
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