16 Home Projects With The Highest ROI In 2025, According To New JLC Data [16+]

Looking to upgrade the value of your house? Whether you're thinking about selling your home soon or just want to prepare for a move within the next few years, selecting home remodel projects that give you a high return on your initial investment is a good idea — they can help you save (and even make) a significant amount of money in the long term.

The Journal of Light Construction (JLC) compiled a list of 28 remodel projects with the highest ROI. We narrowed that list down a little bit more to give you a good idea of where to start. Plus, we've added tips for getting started and more information about the pros and cons of each of these projects, so you'll understand exactly which remodels are best for you. Many of these projects can also help you save money in the interim, even before you sell your home, by lowering your utility costs — another renovation bonus.

Replacing your roof with asphalt shingles will net you a 68% return on your initial investment. JLC estimates quite a significant initial investment — the project's budget is $31,871 — but includes removal and disposal of the current roof, along with underlayment, 30 squares of asphalt shingles, and custom flashing. This project also comes with a 25-year warranty; while it's a pricier initial investment, it's not something you'll need to worry about for the next couple of decades.

Fiberglass asphalt shingles are more durable — even in severe weather — and are also fire-resistant. Because of their durability, you're likely to have less maintenance work to worry about after replacing your roof. This makes the initial investment well worth it. 

Unlike some of the other home renovation projects on JLC's list, this project isn't something you should worry about completing unless your roof already needs replacing (here's how often you should replace your roof). If your current shingles are reaching the end of their lifespan or your roof has minor damage that you've been wanting to take care of, then it might be a good time to try out fiberglass asphalt shingles.

For an initial investment of $26,781, JLC estimates an ROI of 70% on a wood window replacement. JLC includes 10 3x5 double-hung window replacements in its initial estimate. JLC recommends replacing your windows with simulated-light-divided wooden windows, and the project includes an interior stain for the wood, along with exterior aluminum cladding and paint for the trim.

So, why wooden windows? They do tend to last a long time, often upwards of 20 years. Plus, they're good insulators, so you'll save money on energy bills by choosing wood — and pass those savings onto the next homeowner while you make back 70% of your initial investment. While you can certainly choose to replace your current windows because you want to change up their look, many people wait to replace their windows until it's necessary. If you have drafty windows or notice they're starting to warp, it might be time for a window replacement. Wood is a great option, but it's not the window replacement with the highest ROI on JLC's list.

This remodel has the highest initial investment on our list, but it covers a lot — and comes with a 71% ROI. If you have an unfinished basement you've been thinking about remodeling, this project is perfect for you. You could also look to it for inspiration on basement projects to add value to your home, even if yours is partially finished.

The JLC project includes a fully finished 20-foot by 30-foot main space, a full bathroom, and a wet bar. It covers details such as interior paint and insulation, trim, doors, and wiring. But customization is the name of the game here; JLC recommends laminate countertops, vinyl floor tiles, and standard bathroom finishes such as a marble-top vanity and fiberglass shower. These are all fantastic starting points for refinishing your basement with a maximum ROI, but if you have a specific image in mind, you can always change a few details to create your dream basement from JLC's recommendations. If you already have flooring installed or if you're working with a basic bathroom, you'll likely need a lower initial investment.

This HVAC project involves converting your existing gas furnace into an electric pump. It costs over $19,000, and is extensive — it's definitely something you'll need a professional for. You'll be left with a shiny new heat pump, five line sets, and five indoor wall sets. JLC assumes a 2,000 square foot home for its estimates, so keep in mind that you may need to adjust your expectations depending on the size of your own house.

While having an electric heat pump is fantastic in terms of selling your house — energy-efficient upgrades are a priority for many potential buyers — it's also a good idea to complete this remodel if you want to save money on your energy bill before you sell. An electric pump is far more efficient than a gas furnace, which means your home can be heated and cooled faster after this project upgrade. This efficiency also allows you to reduce your home's energy usage by up to 50%.

A vinyl window replacement is the window option with the highest ROI on JLC's list. With an initial investment of $22,073, you'll receive a 76% return. This is both a cheaper initial cost than wood windows, with an additional 6% return, too. 

So, why vinyl windows over wood? They're actually both quite popular. Besides being more affordable than wood windows, vinyl windows tend to require less maintenance than wood. You won't need to reseal your vinyl windows like you would with wood, for example. However, they can still warp. Vinyl windows tend to have a lifespan of up to 20 years, whereas wood windows have the potential to last longer. Vinyl isn't as good as insulating as wood is, but looking for high-quality vinyl options can help to offset this issue.

At an initial cost of just over $26,000, a midrange bath remodel includes a total refresh of any full-sized bathroom of your choosing. JLC's project specifications include a 5-by-7-foot bathroom. The full project includes details like a steel-on-porcelain tub installation, a brand new vanity, tile flooring, and vinyl wallpaper. 

Many people choose to DIY certain parts of a bath remodel to save money, such as tiling or wallpapering. Vinyl wallpaper is considered safe to use in the bathroom due to its water-resistance, but it shouldn't actually be anywhere it can get wet (such as inside your shower). It will withstand the steam from your bathroom without growing mold, so choosing vinyl is important here; however, some types of vinyl wallpaper can release high amounts of VOCs, and may not be safe to inhale long-term. Look for a PVC-free wallpaper, or choose a low-VOC paint option instead.

Add some pizazz to your front door with a fiberglass grand entrance. For an initial cost of $11,754, you'll get an 85% return. JLC's estimate includes the removal of your current front door to reframe it, though the end result will be customized to match your existing door in terms of color and style. Interior casings and exterior trim are also included. The result will be a gorgeous half-glass frame on both sides of your front door, plus sidelights for a truly grand look.

A grand front entrance is a good way to increase your home's curb appeal — and framing your door gives it a more luxurious, high-end look. Customizations you can make include extending the glass for a frame that lets in more light — you can also choose between clear windows for a frame with a view, or frosted glass for extra privacy. You might even want to upgrade your front door while installing a grand entrance, to save yourself time — another recommendation from JLC.

This $25,000 addition is one of two deck additions that made our ranking of JLC renovations. It offers an 89% ROI, though it's a more expensive addition than a traditional wood deck. JLC's project also includes a built-in bench, planter, and stairs with a railing, all made from the same composite deck. These custom additions can help to add more style to your deck without requiring you to source additional materials.

Composite can be a good option in the long term. Unlike wood, composite decks require barely any maintenance — that's because they're made primarily from plastic, so they won't fall victim to common deck issues like termites or rotting. You won't need to worry about staining or resealing your composite deck. If you want a deck that just needs a bit of cleaning rather than a full maintenance routine, then a composite deck is more than worth the investment.

Composite and wood deck additions fall right next to each other on JLC's ranking, but a wood deck has a 6% higher ROI than composite decks, with a total return of 95%. The project costs just over $18,000, which means that you save money with the initial build, too. It also includes stairs with railings, a built-in bench, and a planter.

A wood deck, despite its maintenance needs, is often touted for its classic, natural look. If you're trying to tack on a few extra home remodels to enjoy for a couple of years before you put your place on the market, a wood deck may be a solid option for you, since you won't have to maintain it long-term. Over time, you'll need to sand and reseal a wood deck. It might need a new stain or have issues with pests eating away at it. Of course, its high ROI (and inexpensive initial costs) can negate these issues, and if you prefer the look of a wood deck to a composite one, you may not care about the fact that it's high-maintenance. 

Getting your first backup power generator can be a great investment — not only does it have a 95% return per JLC, but it'll give you peace of mind as a homeowner, too. A backup power generator could raise your home's value by up to 5%. JLC's project includes a mounted generator with 70 amps of emergency power. 

Backup power generators can be seen as more essential — and therefore more valuable — in areas where storms and power outages are frequent. If you own a home that doesn't see a lot of significant weather events, you (and your prospective buyers) might see a backup generator as less essential, which is something to consider before you embark on this remodel.

A backup generator can range in how long it lasts. The more you use it, the faster you'll need to replace it. On average, it can last anywhere from 10 years to 30 years. It'll need regular maintenance to ensure it's ready to use in case of an emergency, too.

A vinyl siding replacement costs close to $18,000 when following JLC's project estimate, and it offers a 97% ROI. JLC assumes that you'll need a total replacement of 1,250 square feet of siding. In terms of looks, vinyl can be quite versatile — it's easy to pick a siding that already comes in a color you like, and you won't have to repaint it. It's known for being an inexpensive siding option, which makes it reliable if you want to upgrade your home's curb appeal without a costly initial investment. Some vinyl options include extra insulation to help you save more energy throughout your home. 

Generally, vinyl is considered fairly durable, but extreme weather conditions may damage it. Check if the manufacturer has a warranty that covers these issues. If you keep your vinyl siding around long enough, you'll eventually see its color start to fade. Unfortunately, the fact that it can't be repainted eventually becomes a negative instead of a low-maintenance positive, but it could be worth it in the long run.

Finally, we've hit a project that offers earnings with its ROI. A $28,458 investment nets a 113% return, which makes this project more than worth your while. JLC assumes a 200-square-foot, outdated kitchen. You'll replace your cabinet fronts, drawer fronts, and existing hardware. You'll swap out your oven range and your fridge for energy-efficient models. You'll replace your laminate countertops unless you already have countertops like granite, marble, or stone, which you may decide to keep. Finish the remodel with new floors and freshly-painted walls. 

Energy-efficient appliances are a good way to save on your energy bill before you sell your house — they're also more appealing to buyers. JLC helps you save money on this project by keeping your cabinet boxes around and only replacing their fronts — swapping out your kitchen's hardware is also a simple way that you can refresh its look, and a hardware update is easy for you to do on your own. If you already have some of the recommendations that JLC suggests, or high-value alternatives (such as existing wood floors, for example), you may stand to save some money here without compromising your ROI.

One popular siding replacement is fiber-cement. If you're able to invest JLC's estimated $21,485 into this project, you'll get a whopping 114% return on it. Like JLC's vinyl estimate, this project includes a full 1,250 square feet of siding. While it is more expensive than vinyl, it's popular due to its sleek look and customizable finishes. You might have seen modern homes with the unique board and batten siding finish, which uses vertical trim to create defined panels across the home — classic lap siding is also popular for its traditional look. 

This project's more expensive initial investment will get you good results in terms of durability and maintenance. Fiber cement siding has no issues with rotting, and it's resistant to color fading. You won't need to worry about painting it, and it's even fire-resistant.

This project focuses on upgrading your home's curb appeal with a portion of manufactured stone veneer. JLC only includes the front-facing areas of your home in this project, with the bottom third of your house being included; this will create a veneer border for your home that can give it an upgraded look as well as more durability, at a lower cost than a full veneer. 

Manufactured stone veneer is more affordable than natural stone, but you'll be hard-pressed to tell the difference visually. There are many different sizes, colors, and shapes of stones to choose from. Manufactured stone veneer can last up to 25 years, and JLC takes care to detail how its installation includes water protection that will help prevent any moisture issues from arising. 

The style of stone veneer you choose is up to you. For inspiration, you might want to look around your neighborhood and see what types of veneers are popular. This can help ensure that you get a great return on your investment. 

A steel front door is what JLC recommends if you want to upgrade the look of your house and get an incredible return on your investment. A steel door can net you a 216% return on a $2,400 project, making this home upgrade well worth your while. Remove your current front door and replace it with one made from 20-gauge steel; this not only makes the entrance of your home more secure, but can also help you save on your energy bill. Steel doors are more effective at insulating your home from outside weather than wood doors.

This project also includes a half-glass panel for your steel door, along with a factory-finish color of your choice and exterior casings to match. A glass-paneled front door is a great choice design-wise, as it will make your steel door look less industrial — plus, it'll let in more light. For additional privacy, you could opt for a frosted window instead of a clear one. This is a good project to complete right alongside JLC's recommended fiberglass grand entrance, since you'd need to remove your front door for that project anyway.

The project with the highest ROI on JLC's list is a complete garage door replacement. JLC estimates a whopping 248% return on its recommended garage door replacement project — and for a total cost of $4,600, this is a great renovation to add to your list.

Whether you have a garage door that's wearing down or is just outdated, JLC recommends replacing it with a four-section garage door that runs on galvanized steel tracks. To save on costs, this garage will be installed using the motorized opener you already have in your garage. The project includes the cost of an insulated, high-tensile-strength steel door; the topmost section of the garage door will include windows.

Sectional garages are safer than other garage types because they are stronger, prevent accidents, and can't be forced open. From a security standpoint, a sectional garage is best for protecting your home against intruders; they also have safety features like motion detectors. Sectional garages with windows are sleek and modern, upgrading the curb appeal of your home; match the paint color to your front door for a cohesive look.