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Home Improvement Projects That May Increase Home Value
Jul 16, 2026
Allison Austin
5 min read
Summary
Whether you're planning to sell in the future or simply want to maintain and improve your home's condition, strategic upgrades can help enhance both comfort and long-term value.While every property is different, certain home improvement projects consistently attract buyer interest and may provide a strong return on investment.
Kitchen Upgrades
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, making it one of the most valuable areas to update.
Popular improvements include:
- Replacing outdated countertops
- Updating cabinetry or hardware
- Installing energy-efficient appliances
- Adding modern lighting fixtures
- Refreshing backsplashes and finishes
Bathroom Renovations
Updated bathrooms are another feature many homeowners and buyers appreciate.
Consider improvements such as:
- New vanities and fixtures
- Updated lighting and mirrors
- Modern shower or bathtub upgrades
- Water-efficient toilets and faucets
- Fresh paint and updated flooring
New Flooring
Flooring affects the overall appearance and feel of a home. Replacing worn or outdated flooring can instantly refresh living spaces and help create a more cohesive look throughout the property.
Popular options include:
- Luxury vinyl plank flooring
- Hardwood flooring
- Tile flooring
- Updated carpeting in select areas
Window and Door Replacements
Replacing older windows and doors can improve curb appeal, comfort, and energy efficiency.
Benefits may include:
- Improved insulation
- Reduced drafts
- Enhanced security
- Lower energy consumption
- Updated appearance
Start with the Essentials
Before investing in cosmetic upgrades, address any existing maintenance concerns. Structural or mechanical issues often have a greater impact on property value than decorative improvements.
Prioritize repairs such as:
- Roof leaks
- Plumbing issues
- HVAC system concerns
Refinance FAQs
Lenders may accept other sources of credit, such as a documented history of bills you've paid on time for rent, utility or cable services. For more information, contact an experienced PHH loan officer at 1-877-319-0577.
Effective ways to improve your credit score in one to two years include making payments on time and reducing your credit card balances. For more ideas, read our FAQ, “How can I improve my credit score?” or talk to an experienced PHH loan officer at 1-877-319-0577.
Credit is an agreement to borrow money with the promise that you will pay it back later through scheduled payments. It usually includes interest, which is additional money charged for the privilege and convenience of borrowing.
- To reduce monthly mortgage payments: When a lower interest rate on your loan is available – typically 1% or more – refinancing can help you save money every month.
- To cash out a portion of the equity in your home: You can get extra cash by obtaining a new loan for a balance larger than the one on your existing loan. You can then use the cash for anything from home improvements to college tuition.
- To obtain a stable interest rate: You may be able to switch from the uncertainty of a variable interest rate to a more stable (and possibly even lower) fixed rate.
- To consolidate debt: Similar to a cash out refinance, debt consolidation allows you to take out a new loan for a larger balance than your existing mortgage. You can then use the cash difference to pay off any higher interest debts you may have. Essentially you are using your home as collateral for the consolidated debts.
- To pay off your mortgage sooner: You can switch to a shorter repayment term, which can help you save thousands of dollars in interest payments.
To help decide if it makes good sense to refinance, start by speaking with an experienced loan officer, call 1-877-319-0577.
Good credit shows mortgage lenders that you make payments on time and are willing to repay any money borrowed. In general, people with good credit are often offered the lowest available interest rate.
One of the best ways to establish good credit is by making all of your credit payments on time. For more about the benefits of good credit, and strategies for establishing, building and maintaining it, talk with a credit advisor.
One of the best ways to establish good credit is by making all of your credit payments on time. For more about the benefits of good credit, and strategies for establishing, building and maintaining it, talk with a credit advisor.
If you make a payment after the stated due date, you may be charged penalties or late fees. A pattern of late credit payments may lead to poor credit and could negatively affect future loans. For instance, lenders may evaluate you as a high risk and offer a loan with a higher-than-usual interest rate.
In general, a mortgage payment is considered late, or delinquent, if it is received 15 days beyond the due date. A payment is considered to be in serious delinquency when it is 60 to 90 days late. Consequences may include costly penalty charges, default on the loan and possibly foreclosure on the property.
In general, a mortgage payment is considered late, or delinquent, if it is received 15 days beyond the due date. A payment is considered to be in serious delinquency when it is 60 to 90 days late. Consequences may include costly penalty charges, default on the loan and possibly foreclosure on the property.
