Top Home Upgrades That Boost Your Home’s Value

Published: July 20, 2024
The image depicts a home renovation workspace set up on a wooden table inside a room under construction. The table is covered with various construction tools and materials, indicating an active home improvement project. On the left side of the table, a pair of clear safety goggles rests next to a pair of yellow and black earmuffs, emphasizing safety during the renovation process. Nearby, a white hard hat is placed, further reinforcing the construction theme. A yellow measuring tape with black markings is stretched across the table, alongside a black-handled hammer with a yellow grip, which lies on top of a set of architectural blueprints. The blueprints feature detailed drawings, likely of the home's layout or renovation plans. A clipboard with a stack of papers, possibly project specifications or permits, is positioned next to the blueprints, with a pencil resting on top. On the right side of the table, a black and orange cordless power drill stands upright, ready for use. Next to the drill, a yellow retractable tape measure with a black clip is coiled, adding to the assortment of tools. In the background, a white vase with green eucalyptus branches adds a touch of decor to the otherwise utilitarian scene. The room itself has a fireplace with a wooden frame and large windows, allowing natural light to flood in, illuminating the workspace. The floor is covered with a protective white sheet, typical of a construction site to prevent damage during the renovation. The image serves as the featured image for a blog titled "Top Home Upgrades That Boost Your Home’s Value," suggesting that the tools and setup represent the hands-on work involved in home improvement projects aimed at increasing property value.

Think of your home as a work of art—every upgrade you make is like adding a splash of color that makes it even more appealing. In Wichita, 2024 is shaping up to be a great year for making smart home improvements that really boost your property’s value.

Whether you’re aiming to enhance your home’s curb appeal, improve energy efficiency, or just make it more attractive to potential buyers, choosing the right home upgrades can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top upgrades that offer the best bang for your buck in Wichita, helping your home shine in a crowded market.

Home Upgrade #1: HVAC Replacement

The image features a close-up view of a white HVAC unit, specifically focusing on the top section where a circular fan with black blades is visible through a protective grille. The unit's exterior has a series of horizontal slats, typical of an air conditioning or heat pump condenser. The background is slightly blurred, emphasizing the texture and details of the HVAC unit. On the left side of the image, there is a vertical dark teal panel with white text that reads "HOME UPGRADES #1" in bold, capital letters. The "#1" is highlighted within a lighter teal rectangular section for emphasis. Below this, the word "HVAC" is written vertically in a faint, light gray outline font, aligned along the left edge of the panel. In the bottom right corner of the image, there is a logo and text combination. The logo consists of a stylized black script signature that reads "kg" followed by the name "KENDRA GILL" in smaller black capital letters. Next to this, there is a rectangular logo with the text "REECE NICHOLS SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in black, with "SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in smaller font below "REECE NICHOLS." The logos and text indicate the source or sponsor of the content, likely related to real estate or home improvement services. The surrounding text provides context for the image, explaining the benefits of upgrading from an old gas furnace to a modern electric heat pump. It highlights the improvement in efficiency, comfort, and market appeal for the home, emphasizing the necessity of an effective heating and cooling system in today’s world.

Switching from an old gas furnace to a modern electric heat pump is more than just an upgrade—it’s a smart move for your home’s efficiency and comfort. In today’s world, having an effective heating and cooling system isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. By converting to this energy-efficient system, you’re not only enhancing your home’s climate control but also positioning it to be more attractive to potential buyers.

Costs and Recouped Value:

  • National Cost Recouped: 66.1%
  • Wichita Cost Recouped: 96.0%

Beyond the numbers, the benefits are impressive. Switching to an electric HVAC system is financially smart because electricity is increasingly becoming more affordable than gas, thanks to the growing use of renewable energy sources in the U.S.

Home Upgrade #2: Replace Entry Door with Steel Door

The image depicts a welcoming front porch scene featuring a newly upgraded entry door. The door is a sleek, dark-colored steel unit with a dual-pane half-glass panel at the top, consisting of six rectangular windowpanes arranged in a grid pattern. The door is set within a white-painted exterior wall with horizontal siding, and it is framed by a black trim. To the right of the door, a black outdoor wall sconce with a lantern-style light fixture is mounted on the wall, casting a warm glow. In front of the door, a light brown doormat with a simple black arrow design is placed on the wooden porch floor, which has a light stain and shows long shadows from nearby railings, indicating sunlight filtering through. To the right of the door, a tall, rectangular gray planter holds a festive arrangement of evergreen branches, red berries, and small pinecones, adding a touch of seasonal decor. Another similar planter with a matching arrangement is partially visible on the far right. To the left of the door, a white rocking chair with a woven wicker seat and backrest is positioned on the porch, holding a cozy red throw pillow with a white snowflake pattern, suggesting a winter or holiday theme. Next to the chair, a weathered metal bucket with a handle is placed on the floor, containing a few pieces of firewood, adding a rustic touch to the scene. A large window with black trim is visible on the wall to the left of the door, reflecting a clear blue sky. On the left side of the image, a vertical dark teal panel features white text that reads "HOME UPGRADES #2" in bold, capital letters. The "#2" is highlighted within a lighter teal rectangular section for emphasis. Below this, the word "DOOR" is written vertically in a faint, light gray outline font, aligned along the left edge of the panel. In the bottom right corner, there is a logo and text combination. The logo includes a stylized black script signature that reads "kg" followed by the name "KENDRA GILL" in smaller black capital letters. Next to this, a rectangular logo displays the text "REECE NICHOLS SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in black, with "SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in a smaller font below "REECE NICHOLS." This branding suggests the content is related to real estate or home improvement services in the South Central Kansas area. The surrounding text provides context for the image, explaining the upgrade of replacing an existing entry door with a 20-gauge steel door. It highlights the door's features, including a dual-pane half-glass panel, an aluminum threshold, and a pre-finished color that enhances both the home's curb appeal and security while complementing the exterior style.

A high-quality entry door is crucial for boosting your home’s curb appeal and enhancing security. Replacing your existing door with a new 20-gauge steel unit can significantly improve both function and style. This home upgrade features a dual-pane half-glass panel, an aluminum threshold, and a pre-finished color that complements your home’s exterior, combining durability with visual appeal.

Costs and Recouped Value:

  • National Cost Recouped: 188.1%
  • Wichita Cost Recouped: 272.3%

Installing a steel door improves insulation, prevents leaks, and enhances security by reinforcing the frame and adding stronger locks, making your home more secure and potentially saving you money. This investment not only boosts your home’s attractiveness but also its practical performance.

Home Upgrade #3: Garage Door Replacement

The image depicts the exterior of a modern home, focusing on the front entrance area and an adjacent garage. The house features a clean, white facade with a smooth, stucco-like finish. On the right side of the image, a sleek, dark gray garage door with horizontal panels is prominently displayed, showcasing a contemporary design that aligns with the home's minimalist aesthetic. To the left of the garage door, there is a matching dark gray front entry door with a vertical rectangular window near the handle, adding a cohesive look to the exterior. In front of the entry door, the area is accented with simple landscaping. Two tall, black planters hold neatly trimmed evergreen shrubs, adding a touch of greenery to the space. To the left of the entry door, a small landscaped area features additional greenery, including a round topiary shrub in a pot and some low-lying plants set against a border of dark mulch and decorative rocks. Above the entry door, a small, rectangular outdoor light fixture is mounted on the wall, providing functional lighting. The foreground of the image shows a driveway made of light gray pavers arranged in a herringbone pattern, leading up to the garage and entry door. The sky above is partly cloudy with patches of blue, suggesting a pleasant day. On the left side of the image, a vertical dark teal panel features white text that reads "HOME UPGRADES #3" in bold, capital letters. The "#3" is highlighted within a lighter teal rectangular section for emphasis. Below this, the word "GARAGE DOOR" is written vertically in a faint, light gray outline font, aligned along the left edge of the panel. In the bottom right corner, there is a logo and text combination. The logo includes a stylized black script signature that reads "kg" followed by the name "KENDRA GILL" in smaller black capital letters. Next to this, a rectangular logo displays the text "REECE NICHOLS SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in black, with "SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in a smaller font below "REECE NICHOLS," indicating the content is related to real estate or home improvement services in the South Central Kansas area. The surrounding text provides context for the image, explaining the upgrade of replacing an old garage door with a high-tensile-strength steel door. It highlights features like a lifetime warranty, insulated panels, and thermal seals, which enhance durability and energy efficiency while improving the home's aesthetics and functionality.

A new garage door can significantly enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. This upgrade not only improves the look of your property but also boosts its performance. The project involves removing the old garage door and installing a high-tensile-strength steel door with features like a lifetime warranty, insulated panels, and thermal seals. These additions ensure better durability and energy efficiency.

Costs and Recouped Value:

  • National Cost Recouped: 193.3%
  • Wichita Cost Recouped: 268.6%

A new garage door brings enhanced curb appeal, improved energy efficiency, and greater durability with reduced maintenance. This makes it a valuable investment for both aesthetic and practical reasons. Plus, it makes a significant impact with minimal effort!

Home Upgrade #4: Siding Replacement (fiber-cement)

The image features a close-up view of a home's exterior wall covered in fiber-cement siding. The siding consists of horizontal panels painted in a muted blue-gray color, with a smooth texture that highlights the material's clean, modern appearance. The panels are evenly spaced, creating a uniform and polished look, with subtle shadows between each panel that emphasize the depth and layering of the siding. On the left side of the image, a vertical dark teal panel features white text that reads "HOME UPGRADES #4" in bold, capital letters. The "#4" is highlighted within a lighter teal rectangular section for emphasis. Below this, the word "SIDING" is written vertically in a faint, light gray outline font, aligned along the left edge of the panel. In the bottom right corner, there is a logo and text combination. The logo includes a stylized black script signature that reads "kg" followed by the name "KENDRA GILL" in smaller black capital letters. Next to this, a rectangular logo displays the text "REECE NICHOLS SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in black, with "SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in a smaller font below "REECE NICHOLS," indicating the content is related to real estate or home improvement services in the South Central Kansas area. The surrounding text provides context for the image, explaining the upgrade of replacing 1,250 square feet of existing siding with new fiber-cement siding. It highlights the material's durability and enhanced appearance, noting that the project also includes the installation of trim and painting for a polished finish, ultimately improving both the functionality and aesthetics of the home.

Fiber-cement siding offers several advantages over traditional materials, making it a popular choice for home upgrades. This type of siding is known for its durability and enhanced appearance, providing a significant boost to both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. The project involves replacing 1,250 square feet of existing siding with new fiber-cement siding, which also includes the installation of trim and painting to ensure a polished finish.

Costs and Recouped Value:

  • National Cost Recouped: 88.4%
  • Wichita Cost Recouped: 101.9%

Financially, the upgrade is quite advantageous. The benefits of fiber-cement siding: it enhances your home’s durability and curb appeal while requiring low maintenance and offering long-lasting performance. This makes it a smart investment for improving your home’s exterior.

Home Upgrade #5: Manufactured Stone Veneer

The image showcases a close-up view of a home's exterior wall covered in manufactured stone veneer. The veneer consists of rectangular stone pieces in a mix of dark gray, black, and beige tones, arranged in a staggered pattern to mimic the look of natural stone. The stones vary in size and texture, with some having a rough, rugged surface and others appearing smoother, creating a rich, multidimensional appearance. The grout lines between the stones are minimal, enhancing the seamless and authentic look of the veneer. On the left side of the image, a vertical dark teal panel features white text that reads "HOME UPGRADES #5" in bold, capital letters. The "#5" is highlighted within a lighter teal rectangular section for emphasis. Below this, the words "STONE VENEER" are written vertically in a faint, light gray outline font, aligned along the left edge of the panel. In the bottom right corner, there is a logo and text combination. The logo includes a stylized black script signature that reads "kg" followed by the name "KENDRA GILL" in smaller black capital letters. Next to this, a rectangular logo displays the text "REECE NICHOLS SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in black, with "SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS" in a smaller font below "REECE NICHOLS," indicating the content is related to real estate or home improvement services in the South Central Kansas area. The surrounding text provides context for the image, explaining the upgrade of replacing existing vinyl siding with manufactured stone veneer. It highlights the natural, elegant appearance of the veneer, which enhances the home's exterior appeal and makes it more attractive to potential buyers. The project also includes installing sills, corners, an address block, and other detailed components to ensure a professional and polished finish.

Manufactured stone veneer plays a significant role in enhancing the exterior appeal of your home. Its natural, elegant appearance can dramatically improve the visual impact of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers. The project involves removing existing vinyl siding and replacing it with manufactured stone veneer. This includes installing sills, corners, an address block, and other detailed components to ensure a professional and polished look.

Costs and Recouped Value:

  • National Cost Recouped: 153.2%
  • Wichita Cost Recouped: 144.3%

Manufactured stone veneer offers extensive choices, giving you versatile options for your home. It’s favored for its easy installation, minimal upkeep, and instant curb appeal.

Maximize Your Home’s Value with Top Upgrades for Wichita Homes

Key home upgrades like HVAC replacement, entry door replacement, garage door replacement, fiber-cement siding, and manufactured stone veneer can significantly boost your home’s value in Wichita. These improvements not only enhance your home’s functionality but also its market appeal, ensuring you get the best return on investment. Considering these upgrades can lead to a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and attractive home that stands out.

Yes, energy-efficient upgrades are worth the investment! Improvements like energy-efficient windows or smart thermostats reduce utility costs and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. These upgrades can make your property stand out in a competitive market, especially as demand for sustainable homes grows.

Adding or renovating outdoor living spaces, like decks or patios, creates appealing areas for entertaining and can increase your home’s value. Upgrading to hardwood or luxury vinyl plank flooring is another buyer favorite, offering durability and a modern look. Additionally, finishing a basement to create usable living space, such as a home office or guest suite, can significantly enhance appeal. These upgrades cater to buyers seeking functionality, style, and long-term value.

Ready to Put Your Home on the Market?

Selling your home is a big step—and one you don’t have to take alone. Let’s chat about how to maximize your sale price with the right improvements. Set up a time for a free seller consultation here!

Kendra Gill | Wichita Realtor
ReeceNichols South Central KS
Cell: 316-871-6660
Office: 316-260-9998

Want to find out about other home upgrades and their return on investment? Remodeling by JLC has a great resource that you can find here!

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