Quick poll! Which renovation do you think brings the best ROI?

Which renovation do you think brings the best ROI?

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  A) Backyard upgrade with pool, ice plunge, zen garden
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  B) Detached 2-car garage with attic
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  C) Full kitchen renovation

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Here’s a breakdown of the Return on Investment (ROI) for each renovation option, based on industry data and real estate trends:

A) Backyard Upgrade – Pool, Ice Plunge, Zen Garden

Estimated ROI: 30–60%

• Pros:

  • High lifestyle value: great for personal enjoyment and entertaining.

  • Luxury amenities can attract high-end buyers in warmer or resort-style markets.

  • Unique features like zen gardens and ice plunges can set your property apart.

• Cons:

  • High initial cost with lower ROI in many markets.

  • Pools can deter some buyers due to maintenance and safety concerns.

  • These upgrades are often considered "wants" vs. "needs" in a typical home purchase.

• Best ROI Market: High-income areas, warm climates, or vacation properties.

  
  

B) Detached Two-Car Garage with Attic

Estimated ROI: 60–80%

• Pros:

  • Adds functional storage, parking, and potential living space (if attic is finished).

  • Appeals to buyers looking for extra space or rental/ADU potential.

  • Generally viewed as a practical, value-added upgrade.

• Cons:

  • Requires space and can be costly to build from scratch.

  • May not significantly boost curb appeal depending on placement/design.

• Best ROI Market: Suburban or urban areas with limited parking/storage.

C) Full Kitchen Renovation

Estimated ROI: 70–90%

• Pros:

  • One of the most impactful renovations for buyers.

  • Improves functionality and modern appeal, often influencing purchase decisions.

  • Both minor and major kitchen remodels tend to recoup a high percentage of costs.

• Cons:

  • Can be expensive, especially with high-end materials.

  • Over-personalized design choices may not appeal to all buyers.

• Best ROI Market: Nearly all residential markets; kitchens are universally important.

 The Pops and Son TV SHOW Bottom Line:

If you're looking strictly at ROI, a kitchen renovation typically leads the pack, followed by the garage for practical appeal. Backyard luxury upgrades offer lifestyle benefits but tend to yield lower financial returns unless you're in a market that values those amenities.