What Renovations Add the Most Value in St. Charles Homes?

When preparing to sell, many St. Charles homeowners ask: Which renovations will actually increase my home’s value? It’s a great question—because while some upgrades deliver strong returns, others can drain your wallet without improving your resale price.

At MarketPoint Realty, Jacob Geringer—both a Broker and Certified Residential Appraiser—has guided hundreds of homeowners through these decisions. With his unique valuation perspective, Jacob helps sellers focus on updates that truly move the needle in today’s market, while steering clear of costly projects that rarely pay off.

Renovations with the Highest ROI

1. Kitchen Refreshes

A modern, functional kitchen is one of the biggest selling points in a home. Full remodels can be expensive, but even partial updates often deliver a strong return on investment.

• Refacing or repainting cabinets

• Installing new countertops

• Updating appliances to stainless steel or energy-efficient models

• Adding a modern backsplash

On average, kitchen updates in St. Charles deliver 70–80% ROI and can help your home stand out against comparable listings.

2. Bathroom Updates

Bathrooms are another space where buyers focus their attention. Outdated bathrooms can make a home feel older, while even small updates create a sense of freshness.

• Replacing outdated fixtures with modern options

• Adding bright, neutral tile or flooring

• Installing better lighting

• Refreshing vanities or mirrors

These updates typically bring 65–75% ROI and often serve as deal-makers when buyers are comparing homes.

3. Neutral Paint and Fixtures

A fresh coat of neutral paint is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make. Paired with updated lighting, cabinet hardware, or doorknobs, neutral finishes create a clean, move-in ready appearance that appeals to the widest pool of buyers.

Because the cost is relatively low, this update delivers a high return and helps buyers envision themselves in the space.

4. Landscaping and Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. When a potential buyer pulls up to your home, the exterior sets the tone for the entire showing.

• Trimmed bushes and trees

• Fresh mulch and simple landscaping

• A clean, painted front door

• Power-washed siding or walkways

Homes with strong curb appeal can sell for up to 7% more on average. Even modest improvements can create a sense of pride and polish that encourages buyers to view the home more positively.

Renovations with Low ROI

Not all projects deliver a strong return. Homeowners should be cautious before spending on upgrades that may not add equivalent value.

• Luxury Pools and Hot Tubs: Expensive to install and maintain, with a limited buyer pool.

• Over-Customized Spaces: Highly unique designs may turn off buyers instead of attracting them.

• Large Additions: Expansions often cost more than they add in resale value, unless they solve a specific market demand (such as adding a bathroom in a one-bathroom home).

In short: bigger isn’t always better. Focus on updates that appeal to a broad range of buyers rather than niche features.

Local Success Story

A couple in St. Charles was preparing to sell their longtime home. Their first instinct was to spend $40,000 on a major kitchen remodel. Instead, Jacob advised them to focus on paint, fixtures, and landscaping—a fraction of the cost.

The result? Their home sold above asking price in just eight days. By avoiding unnecessary expenses and focusing on high-ROI updates, they saved money while still maximizing their sale price.

FAQs: Renovations and Value

Q: Should I renovate before getting an appraisal?
Not always. An appraisal before updates can highlight which areas will have the biggest impact on your value. This helps you avoid overspending.

Q: What’s the number one mistake sellers make with renovations?
Over-improving. Spending $40,000 on a luxury kitchen may not yield equivalent value in St. Charles’ market. Stick to updates that match neighborhood expectations.

Q: Do buyers prefer move-in ready homes?
Yes. Even modest updates that make a home feel clean and modern can shorten time on market and generate stronger offers.

Q: Are energy-efficient updates worth it?
Increasingly, yes. Features like smart thermostats, new windows, and energy-efficient appliances are popular with eco-conscious buyers and can improve your home’s appeal.

Q: How do I know which renovations fit my specific property?
This is where Jacob’s dual expertise as a broker and appraiser comes in. He can evaluate your home’s current value and advise which updates will provide the best return in your price range and neighborhood.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, neutral paint, and curb appeal for the strongest ROI.

• Avoid overspending on luxury features or highly personalized renovations.

• Energy-efficient and move-in ready updates increasingly attract today’s buyers.

• Consult with a professional appraiser or broker before investing heavily in renovations.

Final Thoughts

Renovating before selling your home can feel like a gamble—but it doesn’t have to be. By focusing on strategic updates, you can maximize your return and avoid wasting money on projects that don’t pay off.

With his combined experience as a Certified Residential Appraiser and Broker at MarketPoint Realty, Jacob Geringer provides sellers in St. Charles with data-driven guidance. His insights help homeowners invest wisely, present their properties effectively, and ultimately achieve the best possible sale outcome.

📞 Thinking of renovating before you sell? Call MarketPoint Realty at (314) 570-6794 and let Jacob guide you toward the smartest upgrades for your home.

About Jacob Geringer

Jacob Geringer is a Certified Residential Appraiser, Licensed Real Estate Broker, and Entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience helping clients in St. Charles and the greater St. Louis area. As the Broker of MarketPoint Realty and President of 24 Hour Appraisal Group, Jacob combines valuation expertise with real-world market knowledge, guiding homeowners toward renovation decisions that maximize resale value.