If you live in Chicago and are looking for your next home improvement project, you also want it to be one that adds value to your home. From a heated garage to adding double-pane windows and more, there are plenty of remodeling projects to help maximize your home’s value.
With the right upgrades and features, you can revamp your Chicago home, making it a more welcoming place to be every day – and hopefully get a higher return on your investment when the time comes to sell. Let’s explore the top Redfin-recommended home remodeling projects for Chicago homeowners that may boost your property value.
It’s important to note that the median list price in Chicago is $297,500, so comparing the list price of different home features can help you determine which upgrades will help you sell for more.
#1: Heated garage
If your Chicago home has a garage, consider remodeling it into a heated garage. This upgrade can be a great way to bolster your home’s value for a variety of reasons. A heated garage offers an extra level of comfort and convenience, especially during the cold winter months. This can be a major draw for prospective homebuyers.
Additionally, a heated garage can help protect your car from the Midwestern winters and potentially avoid costly repairs due to weather-related damage. If your home doesn’t have an existing garage, consider adding an attached or detached garage to your property and fitting it with a heater.
Homes for sale in Chicago that included a heated garage sold for a median list price of $499,000.
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#2: Open concept design
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An open floor plan is often a desirable feature for both homebuyers and homeowners who value spaciousness and natural light. By removing unnecessary walls and doors, an open-concept home provides a more fluid and functional living space that’s perfect for entertaining guests. Open-concept homes are highly versatile and customizable. This gives you the ability to tailor your living space to fit your changing needs and preferences over time. Additionally, open-concept homes can create the illusion of more square footage, making it attractive to potential buyers.
Homes for sale in Chicago that included an open concept design sold for a median list price of $430,000.
#3: New roof
Adding a new roof to your home in Chicago may increase its value by improving energy efficiency, enhancing curb appeal, and protection from water damage. In a city like Chicago, where there are variable weather conditions, a new roof with proper insulation has many benefits. It can help regulate home temperature, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs, and providing added protection from water damage. A new roof also can improve your home’s appearance and indicate to future buyers that the home’s exterior is ready to withstand the Chicago snow.
Homes for sale in Chicago that included a new roof sold for a median list price of $345,000.
#4: Double-pane windows
Another valuable home improvement project to consider for your Chicago home is double-pane windows. Upgrading your windows can be a smart investment that enhances energy efficiency, curb appeal, and safety. Double-pane windows typically offer better insulation, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs and providing a quieter living environment. They also provide a modern and updated look to a home and extra durability against weather conditions and damage. All of these factors make double-pane windows an attractive feature for potential homebuyers.
Homes for sale in Chicago that included double-pane windows sold for a median list price of $449,500.
#5: Large kitchen
A spacious kitchen can be a huge plus for homeowners and future homebuyers, helping increase the functionality of the space. Having a large kitchen offers ample counter and storage space, making it easier to prepare and cook meals. This can be an attractive feature for people who love to entertain or who have a large household. Additionally, a big kitchen can improve your home’s aesthetic appeal, making it feel modern and updated. This home remodeling project may help your Chicago home stand out from other houses on the market when it comes time to sell.
Homes for sale in Chicago that included a large kitchen sold for a median list price of $349,900.
Per home listing data on Redfin.com, as of March 2023.
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