If you’re a homeowner or real estate investor in Southern Utah, you’ve probably wondered, “is a home remodel worth the investment?” The answer can vary, but in many cases, a strategic remodel can significantly enhance both your home’s value and appeal. Southern Utah, with its unique housing market, offers great potential for a return on investment (ROI) in remodels, especially in high impact areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior updates. Here’s a look at the typical ROI for different types of remodels, so you can decide which upgrades offer the most value for your property in St. George or the surrounding areas.

Why Consider Remodeling?

Remodeling isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a comfortable space that functions well for you or potential buyers. Updated homes in Southern Utah are in demand, with buyers increasingly seeking modern features, energy efficiency, and extra living space. A well planned remodel can boost your home’s marketability and value, as well as improve your everyday living experience. Let’s dive into which areas of the home deliver the best returns on investment in this market.

1. Kitchen Remodels: Heart of the Home and ROI Champion

ROI Range: 60%-80%

Kitchens are the heartbeat of a home, and buyers pay close attention to them. A kitchen remodel typically offers one of the highest returns on investment, especially in a competitive market like Southern Utah. For a midrange remodel (around $20,000-$30,000), you might expect an ROI between 60-80%. This could mean anything from updating cabinets and countertops to adding energy efficient appliances. Equity Boost: A full kitchen remodel can add up to $15,000-$24,000 in home equity, depending on the scope and quality of the updates. Small upgrades, like changing out hardware, updating backsplashes, or refinishing cabinets, can also provide a fresh look on a budget while still adding value.

2. Bathroom Remodels: Creating Value in Smaller Spaces

ROI Range: 55%-70%

Bathroom remodels offer a great opportunity for ROI, especially for primary and guest bathrooms. These remodels usually come at a lower cost than kitchens, with an average range of $10,000-$20,000 depending on materials and scope. On average they recoup 72.7% of the upfront cost. Updating the vanity, lighting, tile, and fixtures can provide a modern and functional feel that buyers love.Equity Boost: A standard bathroom remodel can add between $5,500-$14,000 to your home’s value. Minor updates, such as replacing fixtures or retiling, can still yield a decent return for less expense, making bathroom updates a versatile option for investors and homeowners alike.

3. Room Additions: Expanding Square Footage for Higher Value

ROI Range: 50%-65%

Adding square footage is a popular remodel in Southern Utah, where families may need additional rooms or investors want to maximize rental income. The ROI on room additions can vary but typically falls between 50% and 65%. A welldone room addition, such as a bedroom or a home office, can add considerable value to your home’s selling price, particularly in areas where larger homes are in high demand. Equity Boost: A room addition could add $30,000-$50,000 in home equity, depending on the cost, size, and purpose of the new space. This makes it one of the pricier remodels but potentially very lucrative in the right market.

4. Flooring, Paint, and Lighting Updates: High Impact for Lower Cost

ROI Range: 60%-80%

Updates like new flooring, fresh paint, and improved lighting may seem minor, but they can drastically change a home’s appearance and functionality. Luxury vinyl, hardwood, or updated tile flooring adds an upscale feel and may yield an ROI of 60% to 80%, depending on material and installation quality. Paint is a cost effective way to refresh interiors, especially with a neutral palette that appeals to a broad audience. Lighting upgrades can also make rooms feel brighter and more inviting. Equity Boost: Flooring can add about $5,000-$12,000 in home equity, while painting and lighting together could add up to $5,000 or more depending on scope. These updates are relatively affordable and improve the look of your home quickly, making them ideal for smaller budgets.

5. Exterior Upgrades: Boosting Curb Appeal and Value

ROI Range: 55%-75%

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home is the first thing people see. Enhancing curb appeal with a new garage door, new stucco, re-finished deck, fresh landscaping, or even a new front door can offer strong returns. In Southern Utah’s sunny climate, energy efficient windows and doors are highly desirable and can reduce energy costs, further boosting home value. Equity Boost: Exterior upgrades like new siding can add up to $8,000-$15,000 in equity. A simple front yard makeover with drought resistant plants may add around $3,000-$7,000. Exterior improvements make a huge difference for prospective buyers and can significantly improve the home’s overall marketability.

Overall ROI for Home Remodels in St. George

Across Southern Utah, home remodels generally offer an ROI between 50% and 80% depending on the project type and quality of work. For homeowners planning to stay in their homes for the long haul, remodels are also about comfort and convenience. For real estate investors, high ROI projects like kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal improvements can help attract buyers faster and potentially at higher offers.

Factors Influencing ROI in Southern Utah

•  Local Market Demand: In hot real estate markets like St. George, buyers have a keen eye for updated homes, which can boost the ROI of remodels.
  
•  Quality of Materials: Higher quality materials cost more upfront but often yield a higher ROI and add long term value.
  

Current Market Trends: Popular trends in Southern Utah—such as energy efficiency, open floor plans, and natural colors—can impact ROI and home equity gains.

Is a Home Remodel Worth the Investment?

In Southern Utah’s competitive housing market, a home remodel is often well worth the investment. Updated kitchens and bathrooms, increased square footage, improved lighting, and upgraded flooring all make your property more desirable and valuable. Whether you’re looking to sell or simply enhance your living experience, remodeling can be an impactful and rewarding project.

Ready to start your remodel? 

Reach out today for a free estimate. We’re here to help you maximize your home’s potential and create a space you’ll love. From kitchen overhauls to energy efficient upgrades, we specialize in high quality remodels that bring comfort and value to homeowners across Southern Utah.