14 Garage Upgrades To Appeal To Buyers And Help Sell Your Home

When you're getting ready to sell your home, it's easy to focus on the big things, like the kitchen and bathrooms. You might overlook factors like storage spaces and your garage. Simply having an attached garage usually helps you get higher offers and sell your home faster. But the details matter. That's why upgrading your garage with functional features, like new doors, an EV charger, updated electrical, and climate control, can boost your home's value even more.

While garages are appreciated for storing vehicles, homeowners often see them as multifunctional spaces used for storing everything from sporting equipment to tools. Beyond storage, a garage can house a workshop, mudroom, hub for solar energy, or charging station for an electric vehicle. Making upgrades to your garage can help buyers envision those uses. Focusing on garage upgrades with the best return on investment is a good place to start. To help you decide, we reached out to real estate experts in exclusive interviews to find out which garage updates will appeal to buyers and help you sell your home faster.

Did you know your garage door might be hurting your home's resale value? It makes sense, considering how much of the front of your home a street-facing garage door takes up. A new garage door draws attention from potential buyers. But it's not just about the looks. In an exclusive interview with House Digest, Ryan Fitzgerald, real estate expert and owner of Raleigh Realty, tells us, "A smooth-operating garage door makes a strong first impression. Insulated doors are especially appealing in North Carolina because they help with temperature control and noise. Modern openers with smart features also add convenience and a sense of security that buyers appreciate." Homeowners everywhere appreciate garage door insulation for garage temperature control and overall home energy efficiency. Updating a garage door can improve functionality, reducing frustration and increasing home safety.

Fitzgerald says, "Replacing worn weatherstripping, updating the opener, or repairing panels. These updates are practical, noticeable, and often deliver a solid return in buyer perception." And if the door is in really rough shape, replacing it completely could be a good move. The numbers support this upgrade: A garage door replacement nets a 268% ROI, according to The Journal of Light Construction. Consider the architectural style of your home's exterior, and ensure it's a durable, weather-sealed door that benefits the new owner. Professional installation is a must for your safety and to ensure proper functionality.

Making the space comfortable year-round is appealing to buyers who want to use the garage for other purposes. Fitzgerald comments, "Some homes even feature a smaller heater or fan unit that makes this space comfortable at any time of year. Depending on whether or not the buyer is using this area as a workshop, this could potentially be a huge selling feature." Garage climate control goes beyond how you feel, though. Extreme temperatures can damage items stored in your garage. With an attached garage, you also have the heat transfer issue — a hot garage makes your home hotter, while frigid garage temperatures cool off your home, making your HVAC system work harder. Heating a garage can prevent frozen pipes if water lines run through it or you have a bathroom or kitchen next to the garage.

It isn't a good idea to run central heat to your garage — it puts your home at serious risk because it could draw in carbon monoxide from the garage. Instead, install a unit just for the garage, like a gas-fired heater, window AC, or ductless mini-split. It also helps to improve garage ventilation, add insulation, and fix gaps that allow air leaks.

If your garage is unfinished, consider upgrading the materials before selling to make the space more appealing and functional. Fitzgerald notes, "Simple upgrades like drywall, fresh paint in light neutral tones, or durable wall panels help buyers imagine multiple uses beyond parking ... buyers want space that can shift between storage, workouts, or weekend projects." You don't have to make your garage look like a room inside the house, but finishing your walls is one of many garage renovation ideas to maximize both function and style.

Not sure how to achieve multipurpose function through finish choices? Fitzgerald says, "The key is keeping finishes flexible. Avoid overly specific designs or bold colors that limit how buyers picture the space. Moisture-resistant materials are also important so the finishes hold up in a humid climate." In garages, Type X drywall, which is fire-resistant, is what's commonly used — it's also good at blocking noise. Alternatives to drywall include moisture-resistant PVC panels and metal panels. Or, consider a moisture-resistant pegboard or slatwall system to create a finished look while incorporating modular storage.

If your garage lacks storage space, your prospective buyers will notice. Clutter takes away from usable space. Adding built-in storage units and offering ample organizational tools could help you sell your home. Broker-Owner of Bramlett Partners in Austin, Texas, Eric Bramlett, tells House Digest in an exclusive interview, "Custom cabinets, wall-mounted storage, and overhead racks are very appealing to buyers. An organized garage helps people visualize how they will actually use the space day to day, which increases overall salability."

At the very least, declutter your garage and give it a deep clean before listing it. That might mean moving some of your belongings to a storage unit to allow buyers to see the available storage space. The goal is to make the garage feel spacious and allow room for vehicles to fit inside the garage. Then, look for opportunities to add inexpensive but functional storage, like overhead racks, pegboards, built-in storage, and corner cabinets.

Will adding a level 2 EV charger help or hurt your home's resale value? Bramlett seems to think so. He tells us, "With more buyers considering electric vehicles, having an EV charger or pre-wiring in place adds perceived value. Even buyers who do not currently own an EV see it as a forward-thinking upgrade." At the very least, it will set your listing apart — only 0.9% of Realtor.com listings for homes in 2023 included the EV-friendly descriptor. And 31.7% of those listings were for homes built after 2020. So upgrading your older home with an EV charger makes your listing even more unique, which is beneficial in a competitive market.

If you're not planning to move immediately, you could take advantage of tax credits and rebates for the installation. The IRS allows for a tax credit of up to $1,000 for 30% of the charging port, components, and labor costs. Many energy providers also offer rebates on the installation costs of an EV charger, which makes your overall cost of this upgrade even lower.

The hardware is important in your garage door's longevity. Not only does rust look bad, but it could also interfere with how your garage door operates. Rust develops on metal components because of a chemical reaction with oxygen, metal, and moisture. The rusting effects often happen faster in coastal climates. In an exclusive interview, Chris Murphy, founder of Waterfront Homes LLC in Washington, says, "Garages near the water are exposed to higher humidity and salt air, which can quickly wear down standard materials. Buyers notice when hinges, tracks, shelving brackets, and door components are corrosion-resistant. Stainless steel, powder-coated metals, and marine-grade finishes tend to hold up better and signal that the home has been thoughtfully maintained."

Murphy adds, "When making upgrades, choose products rated for coastal or outdoor use and avoid mixing metals that can corrode faster together. Regular rinsing and ventilation also help extend the life of these materials. One common mistake is installing standard interior hardware, which often shows rust within a short period in waterfront environments." Even if you don't live near the coast, replacing older hardware with corrosion-resistant parts can freshen up the look of your garage and make a better impression on buyers. If you're installing a new door, choose one made of rust-resistant materials.

There are many reasons why your garage may be prone to water leaks or buildup. As an expert in waterfront homes, Murphy tells us, "Waterfront garages frequently deal with runoff from wet gear, rinsed boats, or heavy rain. Flooring designed with drainage in mind, such as subtly sloped concrete or integrated drains, makes cleanup easier and reduces long-term wear. Buyers often notice when water pools, stains, or creates slipping hazards." In many climates, high humidity is a problem in garages without climate control systems. If you live in a snowy, icy area, your vehicles often carry snow into the garage, causing puddles to form. So keeping an eye on drainage in any climate is helpful.

Assess the drainage situation and water issues in your garage to determine if you need to add solutions. Installing a drain can be a major renovation – it could involve changing the floor slope after you break up the concrete and tie it into the appropriate outlet, such as a storm drain or sewer system. There are some potential issues to consider, according to Murphy, who says, "Any drainage work should follow local codes and be handled by professionals when needed. Textured finishes help reduce slipping when floors are wet. A common oversight is choosing smooth coatings that look great dry but become slick when water is present."

Safe GFCI outlets are the garage feature that's worth the upgrade and increases home value. If your garage lacks outlets, adding more makes the space appealing to DIYers. Murphy says this: "Garages near the water benefit from weather-rated outlets and ground fault protection, especially in areas used for rinsing gear or accessing outdoor spaces. Buyers appreciate outlets placed where they can safely power tools, freezers, or charging equipment without worrying about moisture exposure."

Safety is key when it comes to these electrical upgrades, which is why garages typically require GFCI outlets — they offer extra protection in damp areas, like garages. Murphy says, "Planning for higher capacity circuits adds long-term appeal. All electrical work should be completed by a licensed electrician to ensure proper ratings and code compliance. Buyers are quick to notice unsafe or outdated electrical setups, especially in damp environments. These types of upgrades show buyers that the home is built and maintained with a waterfront lifestyle in mind, which can make a strong impression during showings and support resale value." Even inland, moisture protection for garage outlets is valuable since adding outlets could require an increase in electric service to your home or a reconfiguration of the circuits, so consider the overall cost when considering this upgrade.

The local lifestyle sometimes plays a role in how you can upgrade your garage effectively for buyers. Areas with lots of outdoor activities might call for more specialized storage to set your listing apart. In an exclusive interview, Marilyn Comiskey, a multi-award-winning San Diego real estate expert and team owner at The Comiskey Group, tells us, "San Diego buyers almost always think about how the garage supports an active lifestyle. Hooks, racks, and dedicated zones for surfboards, wetsuits, snorkeling gear, bikes, and skateboards make the space feel purposeful. Built-in shelving with wipeable plastic bins or cubbies helps keep sandy or wet gear off the floor." 

How do you know what type of active lifestyle organization to include? Comiskey notes, "When planning gear storage, think about spacing and accessibility. Taller boards need vertical space, and wet gear benefits from ventilation so mold and odor do not build up." Specialty storage racks often appeal to a particular type of buyer and help reduce clutter. Consider your home's location and what type of storage might be suitable. Ski storage racks make sense if your home is close to the slopes. Overhead or wall-mounted bike storage is appealing in many areas, especially if there are bike trails nearby. Clever designs to add overhead garage storage space often accommodate larger items, like bikes and kayaks.

Solar energy is attractive to many buyers due to potential energy savings and the sustainability aspect. That doesn't mean you should install solar panels if you don't have them already, though. Solar panel installation only offers about a 30% ROI, so you won't make your money back, nor will you reap the energy savings if you move out right away. But Comiskey suggests at least laying the groundwork for solar, saying, "Many buyers are highly energy-conscious, and garages that support solar and energy efficiency stand out. Adding a solar-ready electrical setup, such as labeled conduit, space in the electrical panel, or a wall-mounted inverter location, signals that the home is prepared for future upgrades." 

What if you've already made the conversion to solar power? You could still have room for improvement in the garage. Comiskey notes, "Even if panels are already installed on the home, buyers like seeing that the garage can support battery storage or energy monitoring systems. This upgrade is less about installing new equipment and more about thoughtful preparation. Work with a licensed electrician to ensure wiring and panel capacity meet current standards." It's possible to retrofit your current solar panel system with battery storage, which allows you to manage the energy better and improve your energy independence.

A recurring theme from our real estate experts is making garage space flexible and multifunctional. Comiskey tells us, "A common misconception is that a garage is only for cars and clutter. When homeowners think of it as an extension of their living space, buyers see it as added square footage in everyday life." That doesn't mean you should convert your garage into a gym, bedroom, or other room, though — taking away the parking aspect often hurts your home's value. Instead, add little elements that show how versatile the space is.

How do you balance multifunctionality with typical garage uses? Comiskey says, "Buyers respond well to garages that support easy transitions to patios or yards. Simple upgrades like a well-sealed pass-through door, bench seating for changing shoes, or a spot to store sun protection and beach blankets help the garage function as a comfortable staging area for outdoor living." Consider the garage layout and how it relates to outdoor spaces for design inspiration. If a side door leads to a patio or green space, install shelving next to the door for outdoor necessities. A mini mudroom is also functional for getting in and out of the house quickly.

Garages are a top pick for a home workshop location. While a workshop can be beneficial anywhere, the demand can vary based on where you live. Comiskey notes, "San Diego's mix of professionals, creatives, and hobbyists means that many buyers want a garage that can double as a workshop. Adding a simple workbench with tool storage, fold-up tables, and ample outlets makes the garage more versatile without converting it entirely. This makes sense in a city full of DIYers, makers, and people who enjoy building or fixing things at home." Homeowners across the country often appreciate a spot to change batteries in electronics, complete DIYs, or repair objects.

If you choose to add a workbench area, Comiskey says, "Safety is key here. Ensure outlets are properly grounded, and that tools are stored securely out of reach of children ..." Consider the available space, being sure to leave ample room for car parking and other uses; workbenches benefit from 3 feet of clearance. Common widths for workbenches range from 48 to 96 inches. Incorporating a pegboard or other tool storage systems near the workbench adds to the workshop feel.

Plain concrete floors make your garage look unfinished and lack protection. For a decorative finish that also increases durability, consider coating the concrete floor. Robert Aumann, luxury real estate advisor, interior design expert, and founding partner of LUXURYSOCALREALTY, talked to us in an exclusive interview, noting, "Simple but effective improvements include refinishing the garage floor with a durable coating, such as epoxy or polyaspartic. Buyers on the West Coast can appreciate the cleanliness, shine, and stain resistance against moisture and wear-and-tear associated with coastal weather." Garage floor coatings also protect against the impact of heavy equipment and damage from chemicals, like oil and gasoline, that can stain or be corrosive. 

The best flooring options to consider for your garage depend on your goals. If you work with chemicals or handle car repairs at home, polyaspartic coatings are good for chemical resistance, for example. Epoxy coatings offer a variety of aesthetic options, including various colors and flakes, with the option for a highly glossy look. Garage floor coatings also contribute to making the garage feel multifunctional. Aumman says, "Such refinishing raises the simple, utilitarian storage space to a level where it actually becomes useful as another part of the house for projects, working out, or hobbies."

If your garage has one or two bare lightbulbs as its main light source, you have plenty of room for improvement. A dark garage creates a cave-like feel, while a brightly lit space adds that multifunctional feel, while also making the garage safer. Aumann tells us, "Having good lighting greatly improves a garage. Adding LED overhead lights, task lights, and extra outlets can greatly improve the functionality of the garage. Buyers say that well-lit garages are safer and even more inviting, perhaps because they are using them during work hours, loading groceries, etc."

You can fix your dark and gloomy garage with LED lighting solutions and other options. Garages benefit from both ambient and task lighting. Larger ceiling fixtures and wall sconces generate the general lighting that makes the space feel more inviting. LED fixtures placed under cabinets, over shelves, and over workbenches provide functional task lighting that makes the garage easier to use.