Appraisal Institute: Smaller Renovation Projects Fuel Bigger ROI

Apr 19, 2017

When it comes to property renovations as a tool to increase sale value, the Appraisal Institute is recommending that homeowners pursue smaller-scale projects in order to get the fullest potential return on investment (ROI).

Among the projects recommended by the trade group to fatten up the expected ROI are attic insulation (fiberglass), entry door replacement (steel), manufactured stone veneer and minor kitchen remodel. Garage door and siding replacements are also on the Appraisal Institute’s to-do list.

“The latest research shows that home improvements with a relatively low cost are most likely to generate a positive cost-to-value ratio,” said Appraisal Institute President Jim Amorin. “Spending big dollars on major renovations doesn’t necessarily equate to a dollar-for-dollar return. In short: cost doesn’t necessarily equal value. Projects that move a home well beyond community norms are typically not worth the cost when the owner sells the property.”

About the author

Phil Hall

Link copied

Published

Apr 19, 2017

Analysis and Data

Figure Says Partners More Than Doubled HELOC Volume On Its Platform

Consumer loan marketplace volume reached $4.3 billion as Figure Connect drove more production off the company’s balance sheet and helped lift adjusted margins to a record 55%

Figure Technology Solutions said mortgage partners using its platform generated substantially more home equity lending volume than their previous production would have predicted, adding an originator-level measure to a quarter marked by rapid marketplace growth and record pr...

People On The Move

eLEND Names Avi Marcus Chief Legal Officer

Marcus will oversee legal strategy and corporate governance as the lender expands its use of AI, automation, and digital mortgage technology

American Financial Resources LLC, which does business as eLEND, has appointed Avi Marcus chief legal officer and corporate secretary.Marcus brings more than 15 years of executive legal experience across mortgage lending, real estate, financial services, and technology. He ha...

Oct

Denver, CO

More from

Industry News

July CPI Eases Mortgage-Rate Risk, But Doesn’t Promise Relief

Consumer inflation rose just 0.1% in July, reducing pressure for a September Fed rate hike as mortgage rates remain near their highest levels of the year

Industry News

Aug 13, 2026

The Fed Held. The Mortgage Market Got A Warning.

Three policymakers favored an immediate hike, while Warsh welcomed higher bond yields and offered no clear path toward mortgage-rate relief

Industry News

Jul 30, 2026

New Study Finds UWM's 'All-In' Triggered Industrywide Pricing Spillovers

Research shows wholesale competitors responded to the 2021 Rocket ban by lowering mortgage rates,

Industry News

Jul 15, 2026

First Major Housing Reform In Decades Becomes Law Without Trump's Signature

Bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act advances supply, construction, and mortgage reforms despite White House protest