Over the past year, I’ve had many conversations with clients, friends, and neighbors throughout the Lakes Region about home improvements — and whether making those upgrades is a smart investment in today’s real estate market. In 2025, with home values continuing to climb and inventory remaining competitive, it’s no surprise that more homeowners are looking to boost their property’s value while enhancing the comfort and enjoyment of their living spaces.
The first questions I always ask remain the same:
- How does your home compare to others in your neighborhood?
- Will the improvements add enough resale value to justify the investment?
- Are you improving for personal enjoyment, future resale, or both?
After decades in the real estate industry here in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, one thing remains crystal clear: small-to-midsize renovations that enhance curb appeal, functionality, and energy efficiency often yield the highest return on investment (ROI). Here’s a 2025 look at some of the best home improvement projects that can pay dividends — both financially and personally — in our market.
Garage Door Replacement
Still one of the best bangs for your buck. A modern, attractive garage door significantly boosts curb appeal and delivers an impressive ROI, according to recent studies. With today’s variety of custom finishes, carriage house designs, and smart openers, it’s a project well worth considering.
Landscaping & Outdoor Living
In 2025, outdoor spaces continue to top buyer wish lists. A well-maintained lawn, vibrant perennials, upgraded walkways, stone walls, and outdoor lighting can offer a nice ROI. More importantly, Realtor surveys still show that nearly 80% of agents identify curb appeal as the #1 factor in boosting a home’s value. Continue to nurture your lawn, fertilize, reseed, and water regularly.
Front Entry Door Upgrade
First impressions count. A beautiful entry door — whether custom wood, fiberglass, or steel with sidelights and transom windows — enhances both curb appeal, sunlit entry, and security.
Stone Veneer Accents
We’re seeing more homeowners add manufactured or natural stone veneers around entryways, garage bases, and front facades. These accents provide a rich, upscale look and yield a decent ROI.
Deck or Outdoor Living Expansion
Outdoor living remains hugely popular, especially in the Lakes Region, where we enjoy stunning views and four-season living. A new pressure-treated or composite deck, screened porch, or patio space can return dollars in value while dramatically increasing usable living space by bringing a connection to the outdoors.
Exterior Siding Replacement
If your siding is tired, faded, or damaged, consider upgrading to vinyl shakes, fiber cement (like Hardie board), board & batten, or insulated vinyl options. Today’s low-maintenance materials are durable and energy efficient. There’s some nasty-looking siding out there. A fresh look and color makes a huge impact.
Old windows with broken seals, hardware, and trim are a turn-off. ENERGY STAR-rated windows remain a top priority for buyers concerned with both comfort and utility savings. Modern vinyl, composite, metal-clad, or thermo pane windows offer style, low maintenance, and a solid long-term investment in your home.
Minor Kitchen Remodels
The kitchen remains the heart of the home. In 2025, buyers are still drawn to bright, functional kitchens with updated countertops (granite, quartz, or even butcher block), refreshed cabinets, tile or beadboard backsplashes, energy-efficient appliances, and open-concept layouts with center island attract lots of interest.
Hardwood & Pine Floor Refinishing
Few upgrades make a home feel fresh and inviting like gleaming hardwood and pine floors. Refinishing existing floors can recoup the majority of your investment, while installing new hardwood yields slightly less.
Bathroom Updates
Buyers still prioritize clean, updated bathrooms with walk-in showers, modern fixtures, updated tile flooring, and efficient layouts. Oversized whirlpool tubs have fallen out of favor. Instead, focus on walk-in tile showers, new vanities, and updated lighting.
A Word of Caution for 2025: Don't Over-Improve
While it’s tempting to tackle every project on your wish list, be mindful not to over-improve for your neighborhood. Before committing to major renovations, research comparable homes in your area. In many cases, smaller targeted improvements — like removing a few walls to open up living spaces or adding natural light — can yield better returns than major overhauls.
Lakes Region Lifestyle Still Matters Most
Here in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, our homes are more than just places to live — they’re sanctuaries where we gather with family and friends, enjoy the outdoors, and appreciate the beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Winnisquam, Squam Lake, and many others. With Gunstock Ski Area and the White Mountains in our backyard, the outdoor lifestyle offerings are endless.
In 2025, home renovations continue to enhance not just resale value, but quality of life. Whether you’re preparing to list your property or simply improving your personal haven, these strategic upgrades can bring both financial rewards and personal satisfaction.
As always, if you’re thinking about buying, selling, or renovating, I’m happy to share my experience and insights to help you make smart, informed decisions.
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group with an office in Meredith and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
