In 2024, American homeowners spent a record-breaking $603 billion on home renovations, according to a joint report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). That’s $183 billion more than in 2020, showing just how seriously homeowners are investing in their properties.
For sellers and agents alike, this boom in renovation spending offers critical insight into what buyers expect and where sellers can get the most return on investment.
🛠️ What Buyers Are Looking for in 2025
According to the report, 56% of recent homebuyers said it was “very important” that the home they purchased required no major repairs. Buyers want move-in-ready homes, not fixer-uppers. Here are the upgrades they value most:
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🍽️ Kitchen upgrades – 48%
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🏠 New roofing – 43%
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🚿 Bathroom renovations – 35%
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🎨 New interior paint – 32%
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👩🍳 Complete kitchen remodels – 26%
💰 Renovations That Yield the Highest Return for Sellers
Thinking about selling your home in Los Angeles? These are the renovation projects that deliver the highest return on investment (ROI):
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🚪 New front doors – 90% ROI
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👚 Closet renovations – 83% ROI
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🪟 New vinyl windows – 74% ROI
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🌲 New wood windows – 71% ROI
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🛋️ Basement conversions into living space – 71% ROI
Even small changes like a new door or fresh coat of paint can significantly increase buyer interest and improve your sale price.
🔑 Why This Matters in the LA Real Estate Market
In competitive Los Angeles neighborhoods like Brentwood, Bel Air, and Santa Monica, buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes that are modernized and move-in-ready. These local markets have seen an influx of buyers who don’t want to take on costly renovations or construction delays.
As an agent, you can use this data to guide your sellers. For example, if they’re reluctant to make upgrades, show them how modest improvements can lead to thousands in added value. In a market where pricing and presentation matter more than ever, it’s the difference between a listing that lingers and one that flies off the market.
💡 Pro Tip for Sellers
If you’re unsure where to start, focus on high-impact, lower-cost projects like:
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Repainting in neutral tones
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Replacing outdated cabinet hardware
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Upgrading lighting fixtures
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Installing a new front door or windows
These changes are not only affordable but also show buyers that your home is well-maintained and ready for move-in.
📞 Contact Abdo Pierre Faissal for unparalleled real estate service.
📧 [email protected] | 📲 310-620-1038