How to add value to your home: High ROI home upgrades

by Dianne Drinkwater 04/28/2025

Whether you’re a homeowner or a real estate investor, it’s always important to know how to add value to your home. Many upgrades and renovations have a higher rate of return than others, and it’s helpful to know them to make the best possible investment in your property.

Here are some of the home upgrades with the highest returns on investment to consider:

Add a deck or patio

Outdoor living is a big priority for many potential homebuyers. Adding a patio or building a deck in your backyard is one way to add to your home value. Consider your choice of materials carefully, though. Some building materials can cost more up front, but will be cheaper and easier to maintain long-term.

Spruce up the bathroom

Most home improvement experts recommend focusing on bathroom renovations to add home value. Luckily, it doesn’t take a complete remodel to reap the rewards. Simple changes like replacing fixtures, adding storage space and repainting can result in a considerable payoff.

Increase energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is a top priority among potential buyers, both to help the environment and save on utility bills. Simple upgrades like installing a smart thermostat and energy-efficient appliances are high ROI projects. You can also consider more extensive upgrades like replacing windows, insulation and HVAC system.

Revisit landscaping

Landscaping is an often overlooked area of home improvement that can bring in massive returns. Trim shrubs, prune trees and plant new, low-maintenance greenery to refresh your outdoor spaces and enhance curb appeal. Other upgrades include installing simple water features, garden pathways and lighting.

These are just a few of the best ways to invest in your property and add value to your home. Consider these projects and others like them if you’re interested in boosting your ROI.

About the Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida.

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson.

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you?

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you.

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market?

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater