5 Renovations Homebuyers Want Most in 2026 — One Costs as Little as $700
Getting a home ready to sell can get expensive fast, so it's smart to focus on the renovations that buyers consistently say they value. A new Thumbtack and Redfin report found that many sellers overspend on the wrong projects while overlooking smaller upgrades that can protect — or even increase — resale price.
Here are the renovations buyers value most — including a budget-friendly fix that can change a home’s first impression.
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1. Refreshing or Remodeling the Kitchen
Percentage of buyers who find this valuable: 79.2%
Average cost: $28,696 to $90,397
Although kitchen renovations have a high upfront cost, sellers can usually recoup it in the sales price.
"A kitchen renovation is always going to pay off, and even a refresh can make a significant impact when putting a home on the market," said Kendra Sinclair, home trends expert at Thumbtack. "Kitchens are one of the highest-impact spaces, as homeowners assess them both functionally and emotionally."
Sinclair recommended updating tile backsplashes, upgrading stone countertops and swapping in brand-new appliances to attract prospective buyers.
"Even smaller updates, like repainting cabinets or replacing hardware, can dramatically improve perceived value without the cost of a full remodel," she added. "Attention to the kitchen signals a move-in-ready home, helping to reduce buyer hesitation."
2. Installing a New HVAC System
Percentage of buyers who find this valuable: 79.2%
Average cost: $11,862
"Adding a new HVAC system is a significant upfront investment, but it has an immediate impact on comfort, air quality and energy efficiency," Sinclair said.
It also signals to buyers that your home is well maintained and that you've paid due attention to necessary upgrades.
"To top it off, updated systems can help prevent last-minute discoveries and issues during inspection," Sinclair said.
3. Replacing the Roof
Percentage of buyers who find this valuable: 60.1%
Average cost: $9,504
Putting on a new roof is costly, but it will give potential buyers a sense of security.
"Buyers tend to respond most strongly to improvements that enhance everyday functionality or update major home systems," the report found.
4. Refreshing or Remodeling Bathrooms
Percentage of buyers who find this valuable: 59.6%
Average cost: $200 to $594 per square foot
After kitchens, bathrooms are often the most scrutinized rooms in a home. Having outdated bathrooms may hurt your chances of selling.
5. Applying Fresh Interior Paint
Percentage of buyers who find this valuable: 43.7%
Average cost: $700 to $1,100
If you have only $1,000 to spend, make interior painting your pre-sale upgrade of choice. Painting is one of the lowest-cost updates with a fast credibility boost.
"A fresh application of interior paint can directly improve a home’s condition and impression of cleanliness," Sinclair said. "Neutral colors help buyers better visualize themselves and their own design choices in the space."
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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