Best ROI Home Improvements for Your Home

Lee LaPlante  |  July 20, 2023

Malibu

Best ROI Home Improvements for Your Home

Malibu, Calif., is a unique Los Angeles County city on the picturesque Pacific coastline. Renowned for its stunning beaches, rolling hills, and exclusive celebrity residences, Malibu is also home to popular surfing spots and tourist attractions like the Malibu Pier.

With its natural beauty, this tranquil beach town makes for an idyllic place to call home. It is no wonder that homeowners in this area take pride in maintaining their beautiful properties, often investing in home renovations. Continue reading to find out the best return on investment home improvements residents can make.

Kitchen

A kitchen renovation or update is highly recommended for homes in the Malibu housing market. Many Malibu homes boast open living areas with expansive kitchens, ample storage, and large islands. For homes in this price range, built-in coffee or espresso machines and double ovens are standard features.

Investing in a complete kitchen remodel can yield a return on investment (ROI) of 75%, while an upgrade yields about 67%. Homeowners find kitchen renovations highly worthwhile; a beautiful kitchen enhances your enjoyment of your property and can increase its resale value. Additionally, with the rise of short-term rental properties in Malibu, a stunning kitchen can be a significant selling point for potential renters.

Bath

Bathrooms in Malibu homes are often designed with a luxurious spa-like feel. The trend of wet bathrooms featuring waterproof surfaces has become popular. These bathrooms are typically spacious, featuring double sinks and beautiful, free-standing tubs. Many boast skylights and large windows with stunning views, providing a retreat-like atmosphere akin to a high-end resort.

Homeowners renovating their bathrooms can redesign the space to incorporate the lavish amenities expected in this exclusive neighborhood. A bathroom remodel in Malibu can provide a 71% return on investment, a rewarding outcome for your lifestyle and wallet. Incorporating luxury elements in bathrooms is usually a good investment for Malibu residents.

Converting vs. adding space

Homeowners can explore options in their attics or basements for additional living space when homes feel too cramped. Opting to convert a basement has an 86% ROI, while attic spaces offer a 75% return. Basements are rare in California, and attics are often too small to serve as living areas. Fortunately, many homes in Malibu boast generous square footage, and the need for extra space is typically low. Homeowners seeking to expand their living quarters may consider building an addition or upgrading to a larger home.

Entry points

When renovating a home, it is easy to overlook the entryways. Malibu homes boast breathtaking views, though, and you can emphasize the scenery at entry points. To achieve this, upgrade to large windows offering a panoramic view of the surrounding water, hills, and canyons. Your entry door should be substantial and impressive since it is the first thing people see when approaching the home.

One aspect that often goes unnoticed is the garage door. A suitable garage door can complement your home’s aesthetics and serve as a barrier against harsh weather and unwelcome pests. It is a wise choice with a return on investment of about 100%.

Outdoor areas

Increasing your living space in warm climates is an excellent idea you can accomplish by adding a deck, porch, or patio. Such additions are helpful throughout the year, providing a comfortable outdoor space for you and your loved ones. According to the National Association of Realtors, a new patio offers an outstanding 95% return on investment, while a new deck provides an impressive 89% ROI.

Outdoor areas are highly satisfying for homeowners as they significantly increase available space without the high cost of building an additional room. So, if you want to enjoy the outdoors while still at home, adding a deck, porch, or patio is a perfect choice.

When considering external upgrades to your home, remember to account for landscaping. Native plants, trees, and lawns are popular for homeowners in Southern California, a biodiversity hotspot where the Mediterranean climate supports plant growth year-round. Western ragweed and California aster are just two of the many plants native to Malibu.

Outdoor projects are well worth your time and energy, with an impressive return on investment rate of over 100% in some cases. Rather than embark on an extensive project, you might start with straightforward, low-maintenance DIY landscape upgrades. Consider partnering with an expert local real estate agent for additional insight and connections with trustworthy contractors.

Work with Lee LaPlante

If you plan to upgrade your home with the intention of selling, you need only invest in projects that will uplevel your property’s appeal and value. Many of the above recommendations are substantial investments, even for luxury homeowners in Malibu. Each home is different, and yours deserves the benefit of expert insight and advice.

To work with an esteemed Malibu real estate agent, contact Lee LaPlante. Lee and her team are renowned in the local real estate market. They have the data to back up recommendations on renovating your house. Lee is very experienced in Malibu and specializes in luxury properties and relocation services. With a keen eye for architectural design and refinement, she can appreciate the unique concerns of the Malibu community.

Are you planning to sell your property in Malibu or on the hunt for a new home in the Pacific Palisades area? Look no further than Lee, your trustworthy real estate agent. With Lee's expertise, you can expect to receive the best possible returns on your investment. Contact Lee today to explore your options and start your real estate journey.

*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock




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