Thumbtack and Zillow have revealed the top home renovation projects (that don’t require demolition) that are likely to generate the most attention from buyers in the United States.
According to the study, many homeowners cannot afford the stress or cost of major renovations, especially with inflation and the cost of homeownership at an all-time high.
Fortunately, some remodels have proven to be highly desirable in today’s market and don’t require knocking down walls or a huge budget. Thumbtack data indicates that these projects cost less than $5,000 on average nationwide.
Top 10 No-Demolition Renovation Projects of 2024:
Gardener
This rectangular container for flowers, plants or herbs is installed outside just below the windowsill and adds color and curb appeal to the home. Homes with a window box can get 48% more saves and 52% more shares per day on Zillow compared to similar homes without this feature. The national average cost is $100-$150 for professional installation and $15-$900 for materials, depending on the types purchased.
Open shelving
Open shelving allows homeowners to display meaningful items without the need for bulky furniture. Homes with open shelving can get 37% more saves and 45% more shares per day on Zillow. The national average cost is $275 for professional installation, not including the cost of shelving. According to Thumbtack data, installations of closet and shelving systems are up 31.5% year-over-year, indicating that homeowners are leaning into this trend.
Painted brick
Homes with painted brick can get 31% more saves and 39% more shares per day on Zillow compared to similar homes. The national average cost is typically around $1.85 to $3.03 per square foot, and the national average for the entire job is $4,600 to $7,600, including labor, material, and equipment.
Vintage touches and finishes
Homes with vintage features not only have charm and personality, but they can also get 28% more saves and 31% more shares per day on Zillow compared to similar homes. The price of vintage decor and details varies drastically, but homeowners can find great vintage pieces and accessories for under $100.
Outdoor television
One of the hottest features of summer: Homes with an outdoor TV can receive 28% more saves and 26% more shares per day than expected on Zillow. The national average cost is $175 to $300, though costs could increase based on electrical capabilities and weatherproofing.
Outdoor TV installations increased 12.7% year-over-year, according to Thumbtack data.
Picket fence
A white picket fence is a classic feature that buyers can never get enough of. Homes with one can get 27% more saves and 31% more shares per day on Zillow compared to homes without one. The average national cost to install a picket fence is $7 to $45 per linear foot. Recently, a Thumbtack study found that more than a third (39%) of homeowners said their dream yard would have a fenced-in space for pets.
Pergola
Pergolas are structures freestanding or attached to a home that create a shaded outdoor living space. Homes with a pergola can get 20% more saves and 24% more shares per day on Zillow compared to similar homes. The national average cost is $3,600 for a 10-by-10-foot pergola, including labor and materials.
Bonfire
Homes that have a fire pit can get 19% more saves and 23% more shares per day on Zillow. The national average cost is a couple hundred dollars, depending on the kit purchased. This is a do-it-yourself project, as the materials can be found at any local hardware store.
Outdoor sound system
Homes with an outdoor sound system can get 18% more saves and 19% more shares per day on Zillow compared to similar homes. The national average cost is $500 to $2,000, depending on the type and quality of the system. Thumbtack recommends combining this project with an outdoor TV installation to save time and money, since the same professional will be able to set up your outdoor sound system along with the TV.
Smart lighting
Smart home installations are up 21.8% year-over-year, according to Thumbtack data, and smart lighting is a major part of this increase. Plus, homes with smart lighting can see 18% more savings and 23% more shares per day on Zillow. The national average cost is $308 per installation.
“Certain low-cost projects can pay off big because they elevate a home’s image in a buyer’s mind,” said Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s housing trends expert. “These features add a wow factor to a home or serve as a signal that the home is up-to-date, well-maintained or move-in ready. When it comes time to sell, these features can help a home sell faster or for more money, because there will likely be more competition for that home among buyers.”
Keep reading:
· Real estate market myths affecting buyers and sellers in the US today
· Mortgage rates do not convince home buyers
· Places homebuyers are moving to in the US