Smart Home Investments
JLC Cost Vs Value 2025 Report
refinishing hardwoods, cleaning or replacing carpet, or layering rugs to completely transform a space. Whether you’re considering a move this spring or simply want to enjoy the updates yourself, these improvements provide lasting value. For a deeper dive into the numbers, we’ve included a QR code so you can explore the full 2025 Cost vs. Value Report.
We’re often asked which home updates provide the best return on investment. The answer depends on your timeline—whether you’re planning to sell in the next year or further down the road. To help guide these decisions, we look to the annual Cost vs. Value Report, published each year by the Journal of Light Construction, which tracks how remodeling projects perform in different regions of the country. While results vary, we’ve highlighted the updates that resonate most with buyers here on the North Shore. Interestingly, a new garage door ranks in the top three nationally year after year, but because so many of our homes don’t feature front-facing garages, it isn’t typically a focal point in our market. If your outlook is a year or less and you’re looking for improvements that consistently deliver the best “bang for your buck,” three projects stand out: painting in fresh, neutral tones, which instantly modernizes and brightens a home; updating lighting fixtures—especially in kitchens and dining areas—to add both warmth and drama; and refreshing flooring, whether by
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