Remodeling your house can add value, but it’s important to choose the right projects. The best remodeling projects depend on local factors, such as labor costs and homebuyer demand. And you’ll need to know what to expect when it comes time to sell. HomeLight analyzed data from Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report and insights from top real estate agents to determine which projects deliver the most bang for your buck.

Bathroom

A bathroom remodel may not be at the top of most homeowners’ list of high-ROI projects, but it is one of the best ways to increase comfort in your home while also increasing your property value. Adding storage space or upgrading your shower can make the room feel bigger, while new fixtures could help save you money on your energy bills. Gurri New York Design and Remodel has been helping NYC-area residents with their bathroom remodeling needs since 1997, and their team of expert project managers and tradespeople can work with any design plan to bring it to life. Their projects have appeared in publications such as Luxury Interiors + Design and Qualified Remodeler. They have a BBB A+ rating and are fully licensed and insured.

Living Room

The living room is a space for gathering with loved ones. It can be a place to display cherished family photos, play board games or watch the big game. Whether your living room is large and open or small with no windows, you can make it feel spacious, inviting and functional.

A full living room remodel may include removing walls to create an open floor plan, adding new windows or installing a fireplace. But even smaller upgrades can make a huge difference. Rearranging the furniture, adding a bold wall color or adding new lighting can instantly change how you experience your living room.

If your living room is small, choose open-spaced furniture to help the area feel larger. Lighter colors also make the room feel bigger, and a statement piece like a chandelier or a big rug can pull the eye upwards. If you have storage, keep clutter out of sight to avoid a cluttered or claustrophobic feeling.

For resale, you’ll want your living room to appeal to as many buyers as possible. Sticking to neutral colors that are easy to work with is a great way to make sure your space will appeal to more people.

Depending on your style, you can opt for a more traditional appearance in the living room with classic details like detailed millwork and an elaborate fireplace mantel. Or you can go for a modern look with clean lines and simple materials.

You can add texture to a modern living room through the use of different textiles, like throw pillows, blankets and curtains. A large woven area rug can add visual interest to the space, and you can experiment with patterns to create a sense of depth.

Before buying any furniture or decor, do a mock up or a room board of the space to see how it will fit and what items will clash. This will save you a lot of time and money, because you’ll be able to see how furniture works with your existing decor or the architecture of the space before making any final decisions. You can also use software programs that will create renderings of your room, which can be a helpful visual tool.

Outdoor Space

Outdoor upgrades are an increasingly popular way to improve home value. Creating a backyard that feels like an extension of your living space can increase the amount of time you spend at home and encourages friends and family to gather outside, rather than staying indoors. Pools and decks are a staple for outdoor remodels, but there are a number of additional options that can make your yard feel more inviting and create a unique ambiance for entertaining guests. A hot tub or fire pit are both great additions that can help you host a more relaxing and fun gathering.

An outdoor kitchen is another feature that can really boost your backyard’s usability. A grill, prep station, counter and mini fridge can all be included to create a full-fledged outdoor cooking area. Whether you’re looking to become the neighborhood barbecue master or simply want to serve delicious food while enjoying the summer weather, an outdoor kitchen can be a great investment.

Don’t forget to add a shade structure to your patio or porch. Using pergolas, arbors or trellis’ can not only block out sunlight and provide privacy but also enhance your outdoor space’s visual appeal. If you choose to go with a wooden roof or gazebo, look into using cedar shingles or adding an accent wall or stone/brick veneer for additional texture. Your roof is also important for protecting your space from rain and wind, so consider changing or replacing the roofing material to complement your new patio.

Smaller spaces can be remodeled with a bit of creative design to transform them into more functional areas. Using benches that double as seating or accent tables is an easy way to add more function without taking up too much room. Additionally, using patterned throw pillows and blankets that match the color scheme of your interior will help to pull the space together.

Another idea is to install an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. Having a cozy spot to sit after dinner or read a book is a great way to make the most of your outdoor space and can increase your overall home’s livability. In addition, a pond or waterfall can add an element of tranquility to the backyard.