The Top 10 Remodels That Increase Home Value
A St. Louis Homeowner's Guide to Remodeling Smarter, Not Just Bigger
Whether you're planning to sell your home in a few years or simply want to enjoy it today, not all remodeling projects deliver the same return on investment (ROI). The best remodels improve your daily life while also making your home more attractive to future buyers.
At Everstead Design + Build, we help homeowners make informed remodeling decisions by balancing beauty, functionality, and long-term value. Here are the ten remodeling projects that consistently provide the biggest return.
1. Kitchen Remodel
The Heart of the Home
If there's one room buyers notice first, it's the kitchen.
An outdated kitchen can make an entire home feel older, while an updated kitchen instantly elevates the perception of the entire house.
Focus your investment on:
Quality cabinetry
Quartz countertops
Functional storage
Modern lighting
Updated backsplash
Energy-efficient appliances
Pro Tip: You don't always need a complete gut renovation. Sometimes new cabinetry, countertops, lighting, and paint completely transform the space.
2. Bathroom Remodel
Bathrooms are one of the highest-impact spaces for resale.
Buyers love bathrooms that feel clean, bright, and spa-like.
High-value upgrades include:
Walk-in showers
Frameless glass
Double vanities
Quartz countertops
Large format tile
Modern plumbing fixtures
3. Refresh Your Kitchen with SwiftCoat Cabinet Refinishing
One of the most cost-effective ways to transform your kitchen is by updating your cabinets—without replacing them.
If your cabinet boxes are in good condition, SwiftCoat Cabinetscan give them an entirely new look with a durable, factory-quality finish. Pairing professionally refinished cabinets with new hardware, quartz countertops, and a modern backsplash can make a 20-year-old kitchen feel brand new for a fraction of the cost of a full cabinet replacement.
Why homeowners choose SwiftCoat Cabinets:
Save thousands compared to replacing cabinets
Keep solid cabinet boxes out of the landfill
Choose from hundreds of designer paint colors
Achieve a smooth, furniture-quality finish
Complete most projects in just a few days
This type of remodel offers an excellent balance of affordability and impact, making it one of the smartest investments for homeowners who want to increase home value while staying within budget.
Perfect for: Kitchens with a good layout that simply need a fresh, updated look.
4. New Countertops
Nothing updates a kitchen faster than replacing old laminate countertops.
Quartz continues to be one of the best investments because it's:
Durable
Low maintenance
Timeless
Highly desirable to buyers
5. Flooring Throughout the Main Living Areas
Consistent flooring makes an entire home feel larger and more cohesive.
Popular choices include:
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Engineered Hardwood
Hardwood
Replacing multiple flooring types with one continuous floor creates a custom-home feel.
6. Fresh Interior Paint
Paint offers one of the highest returns for the lowest investment.
Choose warm neutral colors that appeal to a wide range of buyers while making your home feel clean and updated.
7. Lighting Updates
Lighting is often overlooked but dramatically changes how a home feels.
Updating:
Pendants
Chandeliers
Vanity lights
Recessed lighting
Under-cabinet lighting
can make an older home feel brand new.
8. Improve Storage
Storage sells homes.
Simple additions like:
Pantry organizers
Cabinet pull-outs
Deep drawers
Linen towers
Mudroom storage
make everyday life easier while increasing buyer appeal.
9. Primary Bathroom Upgrades
Today's buyers are looking for more than just a bathroom—they're looking for a retreat.
Features like:
Large walk-in showers
Heated floors
Freestanding tubs
Built-in linen storage
Spa-inspired lighting
help your home stand out.
10. Outdoor Living Spaces
The value of outdoor living has never been higher.
Consider adding:
Covered patios
Composite decking
Outdoor kitchens
Fire features
Better exterior lighting
These spaces effectively increase your usable living area and make entertaining easier.
Remodel Smarter with Everstead's Three Investment Levels
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is over-improving their home for the neighborhood.
At Everstead Design + Build, we simplify the process by designing around three investment levels:
Standard
Beautiful, functional finishes that maximize value.
Premium
Elevated materials, enhanced storage, and upgraded design features.
Luxury
High-end custom details, premium finishes, and exceptional craftsmanship.
By establishing your investment level first, we can recommend where to spend—and where to save—so every dollar works harder.
Which Remodel Should You Do First?
If you're unsure where to start, here's a simple priority list:
Kitchen
Primary Bathroom
Flooring
Paint
Lighting
Storage
Outdoor Living
Every home is different, and the right remodeling plan depends on your goals, timeline, and budget.
Let Everstead Help You Remodel with Confidence
Whether you're planning to sell in the next few years or creating your forever home, the best remodel is one that's thoughtfully designed around your investment.
At Everstead Design + Build, we guide homeowners through every decision—from budgeting and design to construction—so you can feel confident that your remodel adds both beauty and lasting value.
If you're considering a kitchen, bathroom, or whole-home remodel in the St. Louis area, we'd love to help you create a space you'll love for years to come.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today and let's build a home that's beautiful, functional, and a smart investment.