Home Improvements That Actually Pay Off: 2025 ROI Data for Wilmington Sellers

The top 3 home improvements with the best ROI in Wilmington NC are: 1) Backup power generators (97% ROI), 2) Vinyl siding replacement (95% ROI), and 3) Vinyl window replacement (83% ROI), according to the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report.

If you’re planning to sell your Wilmington or Wrightsville Beach home, you’ve probably considered making some improvements first. But here’s the critical question: Which renovations will actually increase your home’s value enough to justify the investment?

As a realtor with 25+ years of experience in finance, accounting, and real estate, I’ve seen homeowners make costly mistakes—spending tens of thousands on improvements that don’t move the needle when it comes time to sell. The good news? The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report by Zonda Media gives us concrete data about which projects deliver the best return on investment in our Southeast coastal market.

Let me break down what the numbers really mean for your home.

Understanding ROI in Home Improvements

Before we dive into specific projects, let’s clarify what “return on investment” means in real estate. ROI is the percentage of your renovation cost that you’ll recoup when you sell your home. For example, if you spend $10,000 on a project and it increases your home’s value by $9,000, that’s a 90% ROI.

It’s important to understand that very few home improvements deliver a 100% or greater return. Real estate isn’t like the stock market—you’re not necessarily looking to “profit” from improvements. Instead, you’re strategically investing to make your home more competitive and appealing to buyers in our market.

The Top 3 High-Return Projects for Wilmington Sellers

1. Backup Power Generator Installation (97% ROI)

Average Investment: $13,561
Average Value Returned: $13,089
ROI: 97%

Living on the North Carolina coast, we know the reality of hurricane season. Power outages aren’t just inconvenient—they’re expected. That’s why backup generators have become one of the most valuable improvements you can make.

Why This Works in Our Market:

Buyers moving to Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach from other parts of the country are often shocked by our storm preparation needs. A whole-house generator isn’t just a luxury feature—it’s peace of mind. When potential buyers see that generator already installed, they’re not just seeing a $13,000 expense they won’t have to make; they’re envisioning their family safe and comfortable during the next storm.

I’ve shown countless homes where the generator became a key selling point, especially for buyers relocating from areas without severe weather concerns. In our coastal market, this improvement speaks directly to practical safety and security—two priorities that consistently drive purchasing decisions.

2. Vinyl Siding Replacement (95% ROI)

Average Investment: $16,491
Average Value Returned: $15,642
ROI: 95%

New siding delivers nearly dollar-for-dollar return, and it’s easy to understand why. Your home’s exterior is the first thing every buyer sees—and first impressions matter enormously in real estate.

The Coastal Advantage:

In our humid, salt-air environment, siding takes a beating. Sun exposure, moisture, and storms can leave older siding looking tired and worn. Vinyl siding replacement instantly transforms your home’s appearance while addressing practical concerns about maintenance and durability.

When buyers pull up to a home with fresh, clean siding, they subconsciously think: “This house has been well-maintained.” That perception carries through the entire showing. Conversely, weathered or damaged siding raises immediate red flags about deferred maintenance and potential hidden issues.

Pro Tip: Consider neutral, coastal-appropriate colors that appeal to the broadest buyer pool. Whites, grays, and soft blues work beautifully in our market and photograph exceptionally well—crucial in today’s digital-first home search process.

3. Vinyl Window Replacement (83% ROI)

Average Investment: Varies by home size
Average Value Returned: 83% of cost
ROI: 83%

New windows deliver a triple benefit: improved curb appeal, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduced maintenance. In our climate, where air conditioning costs can be substantial, energy-efficient windows are more than just an aesthetic upgrade.

What Buyers See:

When I walk through homes with buyers, old windows are one of the most commonly mentioned concerns. They worry about:

• High energy bills
• Difficulty opening and closing
• Poor insulation and drafts
• Maintenance requirements
• Potential water intrusion during storms

New vinyl windows eliminate all these concerns immediately. Plus, they photograph beautifully, making your online listing stand out in a crowded market.

Energy Efficiency Matters: With rising utility costs and increasing environmental awareness, buyers are paying closer attention to energy efficiency. New windows with proper ratings can be a significant selling point, particularly for retirees on fixed incomes who want to minimize monthly expenses.

Other High-Value Improvements Worth Considering

While they didn’t make the top three for pure ROI, these improvements consistently deliver strong returns in our market:

Fresh Paint (Interior and Exterior)

Paint is the most cost-effective transformation you can make. A professionally painted interior with neutral, coastal-appropriate colors makes your home feel fresh, clean, and move-in ready. Exterior paint dramatically improves curb appeal and signals proper maintenance.

Investment: $3,000-$8,000 depending on home size
Return: Often delivers 100%+ ROI through faster sales and reduced price negotiations

New Flooring

Worn carpet, dated tile, or damaged hardwood floors can be deal-breakers for buyers. Modern, durable flooring—whether luxury vinyl plank, new carpet, or refinished hardwood—immediately elevates your home’s perceived value.

Coastal Consideration: In our market, buyers particularly appreciate flooring that can withstand sandy feet, wet dogs, and the general wear of beach living. Waterproof luxury vinyl plank has become incredibly popular for this reason.

Front Door and Garage Door Replacement

Your entryways frame the buyer’s first impression. A beautiful new front door and clean, modern garage doors can transform your home’s curb appeal for a relatively modest investment.

Investment: $2,000-$5,000
Impact: Disproportionately high considering the cost

Strategic Landscaping

Well-maintained landscaping creates immediate emotional appeal. In our coastal market, native plants, low-maintenance designs, and outdoor living spaces resonate strongly with buyers seeking that relaxed beach lifestyle.

The Reality Check: Improvements That Don’t Pay Off

Now for the tough truth—some improvements that homeowners assume will deliver strong returns actually don’t, at least not financially.

Major Kitchen Remodels (50% ROI)

Midrange Kitchen Remodel:
Average Investment: $81,000
Average Value Returned: $40,500
ROI: 50%

Upscale Kitchen Remodel:
Average Investment: $161,000
Average Value Returned: $80,500
ROI: 50%

These numbers surprise many sellers. How can a beautiful new kitchen only return half its cost?

The Kitchen Paradox:

Here’s what I tell my clients: Kitchens are highly personal. What you consider the perfect layout, finishes, and style might not align with the next buyer’s vision. That $8,000 custom range? The new owner might prefer a different brand or style. Those imported Italian tiles? Not everyone’s taste.

Additionally, kitchen remodels vary wildly in quality and cost. Buyers don’t necessarily value a $161,000 luxury kitchen at $161,000 more than a home with a functional $40,000 kitchen. They’re comparing your home to others in the same price range, many of which already have perfectly nice kitchens.

When Kitchen Remodels Make Sense:

Don’t let these numbers completely discourage kitchen work. There’s a difference between a full luxury remodel and strategic updates:

• Update vs. Remodel: Painting cabinets, replacing hardware, updating lighting, and adding a new backsplash can cost $5,000-$15,000 and deliver much stronger ROI than a complete gut renovation.
• Lifestyle vs. Resale: If you’re planning to live in your home for 5-10 more years, remodel for your enjoyment. Just understand it’s a lifestyle choice, not an investment.
• Dated vs. Non-functional: If your kitchen is truly non-functional or severely dated (think: 1970s original), some level of update may be necessary to sell competitively.

Bathroom Additions (50% ROI)

Average Investment: $65,000-$95,000
Average Value Returned: 50% of cost
ROI: 50%

Adding a bathroom seems logical—more bathrooms equal more value, right? Not necessarily at a 1:1 ratio.

The Math Doesn’t Work:

While an additional bathroom can make your home more marketable, it rarely increases the value by the full cost of construction. A $75,000 bathroom addition might only add $35,000-$40,000 to your home’s value.

Exception: If your home is significantly under-bathed for its size (like a 4-bedroom home with only one bathroom), adding a second bathroom can make your home more competitive. But it’s still unlikely to fully recoup the investment at sale.

Primary Suite Additions (50% ROI)

Average Investment: $150,000-$250,000
Average Value Returned: 50% of cost
ROI: 50%

Adding a luxurious primary suite with spa bathroom and walk-in closet sounds like a winning strategy. The data tells a different story.

Why the Low Return:

Major additions face several challenges:

• They often change the home’s footprint and flow in ways that aren’t universally appealing
• The cost is substantial, pushing your home into a higher price bracket where it may not compete well
• Buyers comparing homes in that higher bracket expect these features as standard, not premium additions
• Architecture and design execution varies greatly—what you love might not appeal to others

Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach Market Insights

After five years selling coastal North Carolina real estate and 15 years living here, I’ve observed some market-specific trends that influence which improvements deliver the best returns:

Storm Resilience Sells

Coastal buyers are increasingly sophisticated about storm preparation and climate risks. Improvements that enhance storm resilience—generators, impact windows, roof upgrades, proper drainage—resonate strongly. These aren’t just functional upgrades; they’re selling points that reduce buyer anxiety and insurance concerns.

Energy Efficiency is Non-Negotiable

Our hot, humid summers mean air conditioning runs constantly. Buyers scrutinize utility costs and ask detailed questions about insulation, windows, and HVAC efficiency. Energy-efficient improvements that reduce monthly costs deliver strong returns.

Outdoor Living Space Premium

In our climate, outdoor living space is essentially additional square footage. Well-designed decks, patios, screened porches, and outdoor kitchens deliver excellent returns because they directly enhance the coastal lifestyle buyers are seeking.

Low-Maintenance Appeals

Many buyers are retirees or second-home owners who don’t want intensive maintenance responsibilities. Improvements that reduce maintenance—vinyl siding over wood, composite decking over wood, native landscaping—are valued accordingly.

Beach-Appropriate Design

Coastal contemporary, relaxed traditional, and low-country styles resonate in our market. Ultra-modern or overly formal designs can be harder to sell. When making improvements, consider our regional aesthetic preferences.

The Strategic Question: Lifestyle or Resale?

Before starting any home improvement project, ask yourself this critical question: Am I doing this to enhance my lifestyle or to improve resale value?

Improving for Lifestyle

If you’re planning to stay in your home for several more years, make improvements that enhance your daily life. That dream kitchen? Go for it—just budget it as a lifestyle expense, not an investment. Enjoy it for what it is: an upgrade to your quality of life.

When improving for lifestyle:

• Focus on what matters most to your family
• Choose finishes and features you love
• Don’t expect full financial return at sale
• Consider it part of the cost of living in a space you love

Improving for Resale

If you’re selling within the next 1-2 years, be strategic and data-driven:

• Stick to improvements with proven ROI
• Choose neutral, broadly appealing options
• Focus on condition over luxury
• Consider your specific market and price point
• Calculate whether each improvement will attract more buyers or command a higher price

The Hybrid Approach:

Sometimes you need to improve for both reasons. If you’re planning to sell in 2-3 years but the kitchen is truly non-functional, you might opt for a moderate update that improves your daily life while also making the home more marketable. The key is setting realistic expectations about the financial return.

How to Make Smart Improvement Decisions

1. Start With Your Goals

Are you trying to:

• Sell faster?
• Command a higher price?
• Compete in a specific price bracket?
• Make your home more marketable to a specific buyer demographic?

Your answers should drive your improvement strategy.

2. Understand Your Competition

What do other homes in your price range offer? If every comparable home has updated kitchens and yours is original from 1985, you may need to invest in updates to compete—even if the ROI isn’t perfect. Context matters.

3. Consider Your Timeline

Selling within 6 months? Focus on high-impact, high-ROI projects: paint, flooring, landscaping, minor repairs.

Selling in 1-2 years? You have time for more substantial projects like siding, windows, or moderate kitchen/bath updates.

Selling in 3+ years? Improve for your lifestyle, but keep resale considerations in mind for major decisions.

4. Know Your Numbers

Before starting any project, get:

• Detailed contractor estimates
• Realistic ROI expectations for your specific market
• A professional opinion on whether the improvement will impact your home’s marketability

As your real estate agent, I can provide comparative market analysis showing how similar improvements have affected other home sales in your area.

5. Don’t Over-Improve for Your Neighborhood

If you’re in a neighborhood where homes sell for $400,000-$500,000, investing $100,000 in improvements to reach $550,000 likely won’t work. Buyers shopping at $550,000 are looking in different neighborhoods with different amenities and features. You risk pricing yourself out of your natural buyer pool without truly competing in the higher bracket.

Common Improvement Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Following Personal Preferences Over Market Preferences

That bold accent wall or ultra-specific design style you love? It might turn off potential buyers. When improving for resale, neutral and broadly appealing wins over personal and distinctive.

Mistake #2: Doing DIY Work That Looks DIY

Quality matters. Amateur tile work, uneven paint, or poorly executed projects can actually decrease your home’s value. If you lack the skills or tools for professional results, hire a professional—especially for visible improvements.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Required Repairs in Favor of Luxury Upgrades

That gorgeous new light fixture won’t distract buyers from the leaking roof or cracked foundation. Always address functional issues and deferred maintenance before cosmetic improvements.

Mistake #4: Upgrading One Room to Luxury While Others Remain Dated

A stunning, fully remodeled kitchen next to a 1980s bathroom creates discord. Buyers notice the inconsistency and wonder what else has been neglected. Aim for consistent quality throughout.

Mistake #5: Starting Projects You Can’t Finish Before Listing

Incomplete projects are red flags for buyers. If you’re listing soon, only start projects you’re certain can be completed professionally before your listing goes live.

Working With a Realtor for Improvement Guidance

This is where my financial background becomes particularly valuable. With 25+ years in finance and accounting before becoming a Realtor, I analyze home improvements differently than most agents.

What I Can Help You Determine:

• Which improvements will deliver the strongest return for your specific home
• How your home compares to competition in your price bracket
• What buyers in your market segment prioritize
• Estimated ROI based on comparable sales data
• Whether improvements will help you sell faster, command higher prices, or both
• Strategic pricing after improvements to maximize your return

The Customized Analysis Approach:

Every home is different. Cookie-cutter improvement advice doesn’t account for:

• Your home’s specific condition and features
• Your neighborhood and price point
• Current market conditions
• Your timeline and financial goals
• The competition you’ll face

I provide customized analysis based on your unique situation, not generic national data.

Current Market Considerations (2025)

As we move through 2025, several factors are influencing home improvement decisions in our market:

Inventory Levels

Our market has seen increased inventory compared to the tight conditions of 2021-2022. With more choices, buyers can be more selective. Well-prepared homes with the right improvements stand out, while properties with deferred maintenance or dated features sit longer.

Interest Rate Environment

Higher interest rates mean buyers are budget-conscious and calculating total monthly costs carefully. Energy-efficient improvements that reduce monthly expenses have added appeal.

Buyer Demographics

We’re seeing strong demand from retirees seeking coastal living, military families relocating to Camp Lejeune, and remote workers choosing lifestyle over location. Each group has specific priorities that smart improvements can address.

Climate Concerns

Hurricane season and flooding risks are increasingly factored into buying decisions. Improvements that demonstrate resilience and risk mitigation carry additional weight.

Your Next Steps

If you’re considering selling your Wilmington or Wrightsville Beach home, let’s talk strategy before you invest in improvements.

I’ll provide:

1. Comparative Market Analysis: See how your home compares to recent sales and current competition
2. Improvement Recommendations: Specific suggestions based on your home, timeline, and goals
3. ROI Calculations: Realistic projections for recommended improvements
4. Vendor Connections: Access to my network of trusted contractors, stagers, and service providers
5. Pricing Strategy: How improvements will factor into optimal listing price

The Bottom Line:

Home improvements should be strategic decisions based on data, market knowledge, and your specific goals—not assumptions, trends, or what worked for your neighbor’s house five years ago.

The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report gives us valuable regional data, but applying that data to your unique situation requires local market expertise and financial analysis. That’s exactly what I bring to every client relationship.

Ready to Maximize Your Home’s Value?

Whether you’re planning to list next month or next year, now is the time to develop your improvement strategy. Let’s schedule a consultation to:

• Tour your home and identify opportunities
• Discuss your timeline and goals
• Review current market conditions
• Create a customized improvement plan
• Calculate projected returns on recommended improvements

Contact me today for your complimentary home improvement consultation and customized ROI analysis.

Kimberly Crouch
eXp Realty
Offering you authentic coastal luxury at every price point

📧 kim@kimberlycrouch.com
📱 910.679.6072
🌐 https://sellercourse.kimberlycrouch.com/

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Data Source: This article references the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report by Zonda Media (costvsvalue.com), using South Atlantic regional data. All ROI percentages and cost figures are based on this report’s findings for our region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I renovate before selling or sell as-is?

A: It depends on your home’s condition, local competition, and your financial situation. Generally, strategic improvements with high ROI (paint, flooring, landscaping) almost always pay off. Major renovations may not. Let’s analyze your specific situation together.

Q: How long before listing should I complete improvements?

A: Ideally, complete all improvements 2-4 weeks before listing. This allows time for proper staging, professional photography, and ensures nothing looks rushed or incomplete when buyers start touring.

Q: Can I include improvement costs in my listing price?

A: Yes and no. The market determines value, not your costs. However, strategic improvements make your home more competitive, which can justify a higher listing price relative to less-updated competition. The goal is optimal market positioning, not cost recovery.

Q: What if I can’t afford major improvements?

A: Focus on high-impact, lower-cost updates: fresh paint, deep cleaning, landscaping, minor repairs, and decluttering. These can often deliver better ROI than expensive renovations. We can also discuss pricing strategies that account for needed updates.

Q: Should I get permits for improvement work?

A: Absolutely. Unpermitted work creates disclosure obligations and can derail sales. Always pull proper permits for structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.

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Ready to develop your strategic improvement plan? Contact me today for your personalized consultation and ROI analysis. Let’s make sure every dollar you invest works as hard as possible toward your selling goals.