High-ROI Home Renovations in Canada: Where to Spend for the Biggest Return

As a local REALTOR® working with buyers and sellers in St. Albert and the greater Edmonton area, I’m often asked the same question: Which renovations are actually worth it?

The answer is simple—homes that show well, feel move‑in ready, and reflect thoughtful updates consistently perform better in our local market. Below are the high‑ROI renovations I see making the biggest difference for Canadian homeowners, especially those preparing to sell.

1. Minor Kitchen Updates (Big Impact, Lower Cost)

In our market, buyers are drawn to kitchens that feel clean, current, and functional—but that doesn’t mean you need a full remodel. Minor kitchen updates often return 75–100% of their cost.

High‑impact kitchen upgrades include:

• Painting or refacing cabinets

• Updating hardware and lighting

• Installing a modern backsplash

• Replacing dated countertops

These changes help buyers feel confident they won’t be taking on a major project after moving in.

2. Fresh Paint Throughout the Home

If there’s one upgrade I recommend most often, it’s paint. A fresh, neutral colour palette can deliver over 100% ROI and immediately improves how a home shows—both in person and online.

Why paint works so well:

• Brightens rooms and makes spaces feel larger

• Creates a clean, well‑maintained impression

• Helps buyers visualize themselves living there

Neutral tones are especially effective for attracting the widest range of buyers in St. Albert and Edmonton.

3. Curb Appeal & Front Door Upgrades

First impressions matter, and I see this reflected clearly in showing feedback. Homes with strong curb appeal tend to attract more interest and stronger offers.

Simple, high‑ROI exterior improvements include:

• A new or freshly painted front door

• Updated exterior lighting

• Tidy landscaping with mulch or planters

• Power washing siding, steps, and walkways

These updates often return 70–90% ROI while setting the tone before buyers even step inside.

4. Budget‑Friendly Renovations Buyers Notice

Many of the upgrades that influence buyers most are also the most affordable.

These details signal that a home has been well cared for:

• Updated light fixtures

• New faucets and door hardware

• Bathroom vanity or mirror replacement

• Regrouting tile and resealing tubs

• Vinyl plank flooring in high‑traffic areas

• Closet organizers for improved storage

Individually small, these updates collectively help a home feel modern and move‑in ready.

5. Energy‑Efficient & Smart Home Features

Energy efficiency is increasingly important to buyers in our climate. Homes with lower operating costs stand out.

Value‑adding features include:

• Smart thermostats

• Energy‑efficient lighting

• Updated appliances

These upgrades signal thoughtful ownership and long‑term savings—something buyers appreciate.

Smart Renovation Advice for Local Homeowners

Based on what I see every day in the St. Albert and Edmonton markets:

• Renovate for buyer appeal, not personal taste (unless this is your forever home- then I say go for it!)

• Avoid over‑improving beyond your neighbourhood

• Focus spending on visible areas like entryways, kitchens, and living spaces

• Take care of small repairs—unfinished details are noticed by buyers, especially in vacant properties

  
  

Final Thoughts

Maximizing your home’s value doesn’t require major renovations. In our local market, strategic, affordable updates often lead to faster sales and stronger offers.

If you’re considering selling—or wondering which improvements will make the most sense for your home—I’m always happy to help. A quick conversation can save you time, money, and stress by focusing on the upgrades that truly move the needle.

-Breanne