What Projects Actually Add Value to Your Home in 2025?

By Kandie Frederick

Growing up on the central coast, Kandie is a third generation family in the North County and a second generation family in real estate. Joining Country Real Estate in 2000, and graduating from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, she brings a background of Agricultural Business to combine with her knowledge of the local real estate market. Working with her family and their decades of local real estate development, she is deeply connected to the roots of our community and its growth.

Spring is finally here. This means more buyers, more listings, and a lot more people asking the same question: What upgrades are actually worth the money when it’s time to sell? Let’s talk about it.

Before you grab a paintbrush or start tearing out your kitchen, here are three things you need to know. These tips will help you get the best return on your home this year.

#1: Skip expensive mistakes. Let’s start with what Not to do. Going all-in on a high-end kitchen remodel, luxury landscaping, or leaving a project half-finished because of time or costs involved, usually doesn’t pay off. Buyers want homes that feel clean and complete. They spend a lot just to get in the door these days, and they want to move in and be settled for a while. Not have a work in progress. If you start a project, be sure to finish it. That missing cabinet or half-done tile job could end up costing you more than you think.

#2: Focus on first impressions. Now this is where your money really counts. Updates like a new garage door, fresh exterior paint, or stone veneer can really boost your curb appeal. Inside, go for mid-range kitchen upgrades, such as new countertops and updated fixtures. You can do all of this without the need for a full renovation. You can also clean up the yard, replace flooring, and stick to light, neutral paint. Aiming for too eclectic of a style and needing a specific buyer will be challenging.

Think of a model home; aim for simplicity to appeal to multiple buyers. Remember, buyers want homes that feel fresh, updated, and move-in ready. This step takes a little effort, but it pays off to make that first impression count.

#3: Choose the right contractor. Hiring the right contractor can make or break your project, so take the time to find someone you trust. Ask your friends and neighbors or check local Facebook groups for referrals. I have some great contacts for this as well. Once you have a few names, get quotes, confirm they are licensed, and ask for examples of their previous work. A solid contractor will help you stay on budget, offer helpful suggestions, and get the job done right the first time.

Trying to cut corners here might seem like a way to save money, but it usually ends up costing you more in the end.

If you’re planning to sell this year and want to focus on the improvements that add value, let’s talk. Call or email me to schedule your complimentary, no-obligation strategy session. Together, we’ll position your home to achieve top dollar.