If you’re a homeowner in the Metro DC area, you already know how quickly the housing landscape changes – and how competitive it can be. Whether you’re planning to sell in the future or simply want to be smart about where you invest in your home, choosing the right remodeling projects can significantly increase your property value. At Tabor Design Build, we help homeowners make informed decisions that maximize function, beauty, and long-term return on investment.
Here are the top 10 home improvements with the highest ROI in the DC market today, based on buyer demand, regional trends, and what we see across local neighborhoods – from Chevy Chase to Capitol Hill to Arlington.
1. Kitchen Remodel (Major or Minor)
The kitchen continues to deliver some of the strongest returns in the DC region. A well-designed kitchen, with thoughtful space planning, high-performing appliances, updated cabinetry, and better workflow, boosts both resale value and daily livability.
Why it works:
DC buyers expect updated kitchens, especially in older homes. Even a minor refresh (new countertops, paint, hardware) offers strong returns.
ROI Potential: ~60–85% depending on scope.
Trending in DC:
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Light, airy transitional design
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High-efficiency appliances
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Enlarged islands for entertaining
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Custom cabinetry for narrow rowhouses
2. Bathroom Remodel (Primary or Hall Bath)
Bathrooms are one of the first things buyers evaluate. A clean, modernized bathroom signals that the home has been well maintained.
Why it works:
Older homes in D.C. and the surrounding suburbs often have outdated plumbing, tile, and layouts. Upgrading improves both aesthetic appeal and daily comfort.
ROI Potential: ~55–70%
Local favorites:
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Walk-in showers with glass enclosures
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Heated flooring
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Double vanities in primary suites
3. Basement Finishing & Lower-Level Remodels
Many DMV homes have unfinished or underutilized basements. Turning that space into a family room, gym, guest suite, or rentable ADU adds significant value.
Why it works:
Extra livable square footage is one of the fastest ways to increase home value in the DC market, where space is a premium.
ROI Potential: ~65–75%
4. Adding a Deck or Screened Porch
Outdoor living is in high demand across the region. A well-designed deck or screened porch extends your living space and attracts buyers interested in indoor-outdoor flow.
Why it works:
Seasonal weather makes screened porches especially popular in MD and VA suburbs, while DC rowhomes benefit from curated outdoor retreats.
ROI Potential: ~60–80%
5. Entryway & Curb Appeal Upgrades
First impressions matter. A refreshed façade – new siding, updated lighting, a modern front door, or improved landscaping – immediately increases perceived value.
Why it works:
Buyers associate curb appeal with quality and care. Even modest updates pay off quickly.
ROI Potential: ~60–100% depending on the upgrade.
6. Attic to Living Space Conversion
In many older homes, attic space is underutilized. Converting it into a primary suite, office, or playroom is a high-value renovation, especially in neighborhoods with strict footprint restrictions.
Why it works:
DC rowhouses, Silver Spring colonials, and Arlington cape cods often have unused attic square footage that can be transformed without expanding outward.
ROI Potential: ~60–70%
7. Energy-Efficient Window Replacement
Energy-efficient upgrades continue to rise in popularity as homeowners focus on comfort and monthly savings.
Why it works:
The DC climate, with chilly winters and humid summers, makes quality windows a major selling point. Buyers love lower utility bills and improved comfort.
ROI Potential: ~60–70%
8. Whole-Home HVAC or System Upgrades
While mechanical upgrades aren’t always as visually exciting, they are major value drivers—especially for older homes.
Why it works:
Smart buyers look beyond finishes. A new HVAC system, updated electrical, improved insulation, or upgraded plumbing reduces long-term maintenance costs.
ROI Potential: ~50–70%
9. Home Office or Flex Space Addition
With hybrid work still standard in the DC region, dedicated work-from-home spaces remain essential.
Why it works:
Whether it’s a finished attic office, a small addition, or a reimagined basement workspace, flexibility equals value.
ROI Potential: ~55–70%
10. Whole-Home Interior Refresh (Paint, Flooring, Lighting)
Smaller updates can make a big impression without the cost of full-scale construction.
Why it works:
Fresh paint, modern lighting, and updated flooring create an instantly elevated atmosphere, crucial when homeowners are preparing to sell.
ROI Potential: Often over 100% for minor cosmetic updates.
How to Choose the Best ROI Projects for Your Home
Location, home age, long-term goals, and neighborhood expectations all influence ROI. That’s why homeowners across the Metro DC area trust Tabor Design Build to guide them toward the projects that deliver the strongest value—both emotionally and financially.
Whether you want a personalized ROI assessment or you’re ready to start planning, our team is here to help you make the smartest investment in your home.
Ready to Talk About Your ROI?
Schedule a consultation with Tabor today to discuss which improvements will make the biggest impact on your home’s value and your day-to-day life.
