Renovating your home can be one of the best ways to increase both its market value and its appeal to potential buyers. However, according to Debora Ciupitu, a ten-year veteran realtor with Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International, not all renovations are created equal when it comes to return on investment (ROI). In a recent conversation with Reno ROI, Debora shared her valuable insights on where homeowners should focus their renovation dollars to see the greatest impact.

Kitchens and Bathrooms: Key Investment Areas

For homeowners considering renovations, Debora emphasizes two primary areas: the kitchen and the owner’s suite bathroom. “The kitchen, that’s where a lot of people spend time at,” she explains, noting that it’s often the focal point during gatherings. “When you’re hosting a party or having Thanksgiving, everyone kind of lingers around the kitchen because that’s where the food is.” She also highlights the importance of bathrooms, adding that they’re another significant space where people spend time and appreciate updates.

Debora notes that the kitchen is often the area with the most noticeable impact, suggesting that updates here can include fresh paint, modern cabinets, and even new countertops. These relatively straightforward changes can make a home feel more inviting and current, which is especially important for potential buyers who may be turned off by outdated aesthetics.

The Value of Hiring Professionals

One common pitfall, Debora warns, is attempting complex renovations on a DIY basis without the necessary skills. “Unless you are very well experienced, DIY renovations can be a mistake,” she says, advising homeowners to work with professionals to ensure quality and consistency. She points out that even well-intentioned DIY projects can fall short if they lack the polish and precision of professional work, particularly in high-value homes.

Debora stresses the importance of design choices that appeal broadly to the market, especially with kitchen renovations. “People are into white cabinets right now; those will sell faster,” she explains, urging homeowners to consider neutral colors and styles that have lasting appeal. Making bold design choices like black cabinets or highly personalized features can be risky. Debora recalls a client who installed a $15,000 Japanese bathtub, only to struggle with resale later because prospective buyers didn’t appreciate the unique investment.

Making a Home Market-Ready: Turnkey Appeal

In today’s competitive market, Debora finds that most buyers are looking for a “turnkey” experience—they want a home that’s already updated and doesn’t require immediate work. She points out, “If someone is buying a $500,000 house and renovations are going to cost $100,000, a lot of people don’t have that extra cash on hand.” By investing in strategic updates, homeowners can make their property more attractive to buyers who may not have the budget to tackle renovations themselves.

Timing is also crucial when remodeling a home for resale. Debora advises giving yourself four to six months to plan and complete any major updates. “With the contractors I work with, kitchen and bathroom renovations usually take about three months,” she says, allowing homeowners ample time for adjustments before listing their property.

Design Trends to Watch

When it comes to design trends, Debora notes a resurgence in gold and brass fixtures. “Now it’s all about neutral colors, and surprisingly enough, gold and brass are coming back,” she says. This trend toward mixing classic elements with modern touches can add warmth and sophistication to a home’s aesthetic without compromising its resale potential.

Balancing Personal Taste and Market Appeal

Finally, Debora offers advice on balancing personal style with broader market preferences. While it’s natural to want a home to reflect personal taste, homeowners should consider long-term trends if they may sell in the future. “You can make it your own by adding things that are easily removable, like big art pieces or temporary backsplashes,” she suggests. This approach allows homeowners to enjoy a customized space without risking resale challenges.

Conclusion

Debora’s insights highlight how strategic renovations can make a substantial difference in a home’s appeal and market value. By focusing on key areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, sticking to timeless styles, and working with professionals, homeowners can enhance their living spaces while maximizing ROI. For those considering a renovation project, Debora’s advice serves as a practical roadmap to achieving both personal satisfaction and financial success.