Top 5 Home Renovations with the Highest ROI in 2025

Not all upgrades are created equal. While it’s easy to get caught up in trendy finishes or luxury features, smart property managers and investors focus on one thing: return on investment. If you’re renovating to increase property value, attract higher-paying tenants, or prep for a future sale, you need to know which upgrades truly pay off.

At DOCI, we’ve tracked the data and seen the results firsthand. These five renovations consistently offer the highest ROI in 2025 and they’re well worth the investment.

1. Steel Entry Door Replacement ROI: Up to 188%

Replacing the front door might seem like a small update, but it consistently ranks as one of the best-performing renovations in terms of ROI. A new steel entry door can return nearly double its cost up to 188% while improving security, aesthetics, and energy performance.

Why this upgrade pays off:

• Enhances curb appeal instantly
  
  
• Offers a high perception of safety and quality
  
  
• Provides insulation benefits that reduce heating and cooling costs
  
  
• Relatively low upfront cost compared to other major upgrades
  
  

Best practices:
Choose a steel door with a clean, modern design and solid weather stripping. Opt for neutral tones like black, charcoal, or deep gray that match a range of exterior finishes. Look for models with a multi-point locking system to appeal to security-conscious tenants and buyers.

2. Garage Door Replacement ROI: Up to 194%

An outdated or dented garage door drags down your property’s visual appeal. Replacing it with a modern, insulated model not only upgrades the look of your entire exterior but can also improve energy efficiency in attached garages or ADUs.

Why this upgrade pays off:

• ROI has increased steadily year-over-year, reaching as high as 194%
  
  
• Boosts curb appeal significantly for multifamily units with street-facing garages
  
  
• Adds modern function with quiet openers, smart access, and better insulation
  
  
• Reduces heating and cooling loss for properties with living space above or beside garages
  
  

Pro tip:
Go for an insulated steel model with a woodgrain texture or frosted glass panels for a contemporary look. If your property has more than one unit sharing garage space, consider upgrading all doors for a unified exterior.

3. Manufactured Stone Veneer ROI: Up to 153%

You don’t need to build with solid stone to get the luxury look. Manufactured stone veneer is a lightweight, cost-effective alternative that can dramatically elevate your building’s exterior. The ROI on this renovation reaches up to 153%, making it one of the most profitable aesthetic upgrades available.

Why this upgrade pays off:

• Adds visual impact and character to otherwise flat or aging facades
  
  
• Appeals to tenants and buyers looking for upscale finishes
  
  
• Much lower cost than traditional masonry or full cladding
  
  
• Minimal maintenance requirements once installed
  
  

Where to install:
Focus on entryways, front-facing sections of the building, and around garage doors. Stone veneer pairs well with fiber cement or vinyl siding and can be used to break up large wall expanses.

Installation tip:
Use a skilled installer who understands moisture barriers and trim details to prevent future water intrusion.

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel ROI: Approximately 96%

Kitchens are a deciding factor for both renters and buyers, but a full gut renovation isn’t always necessary. A minor kitchen remodel typically defined as cosmetic updates like cabinet refacing, new counters, and updated hardware offers a strong ROI while minimizing disruption and cost.

Why this upgrade pays off:

• Visibly refreshes the most important room in the house
  
  
• Faster and cheaper than full remodels, with less tenant downtime
  
  
• Offers wide appeal without veering into style-specific finishes
  
  
• Addresses functional wear and tear like loose drawers, dingy counters, or mismatched appliances
  
  

Where to focus:

• Cabinets: Reface or repaint with durable finishes
  
  
• Counters: Install quartz or solid surface for clean, modern appeal
  
  
• Fixtures and pulls: Use brushed nickel or matte black for timeless impact
  
  
• Lighting: Swap outdated fixtures for bright LED options
  
  

At DOCI, we regularly help clients maximize kitchen appeal with these efficient, high-return upgrades often completed between turnovers to reduce vacancy.

5. Vinyl Siding Replacement ROI: Around 73%

While the ROI isn’t as high as the other upgrades on this list, replacing old vinyl siding still delivers solid returns and major property value benefits. New siding improves curb appeal, energy efficiency, and protection against the elements, all of which make your rental more appealing and easier to maintain.

Why this upgrade pays off:

• Updates the look of the entire property instantly
  
  
• Improves insulation when paired with foam backing
  
  
• Reduces ongoing exterior maintenance needs
  
  
• Increases weather resistance and moisture control
  
  

Choosing the right material:
Opt for insulated vinyl or fiber cement if you’re in a colder climate. Stick to classic horizontal lap profiles in neutral tones that appeal to a wide range of renters and buyers.

Bonus:
New siding can qualify your property for energy efficiency rebates in some regions. It also gives you the opportunity to inspect and repair underlying sheathing or framing issues during replacement.

How to Decide Which Renovations to Prioritize

If your budget doesn’t allow for all five of these upgrades at once, focus on the projects that best fit your property’s current condition, target renter profile, and long-term strategy.

For long-term hold properties:
Start with exterior upgrades that reduce maintenance and boost insulation, like siding, doors, and stone veneer.

For quick-turn rentals or units in high-demand areas:
Focus on cosmetic upgrades that make the biggest impact on showings, such as minor kitchen remodels and new garage doors.

For multifamily buildings or shared spaces:
Look for upgrades that improve shared curb appeal and first impressions manufactured stone, garage doors, and front entries.

Why DOCI Focuses on ROI-Driven Renovations

At DOCI, our renovation strategies are built on one simple goal: get the most value from every dollar spent. We don’t chase trends or recommend upgrades just for looks. Instead, we prioritize smart investments that:

• Increase rent without overcapitalizing
  
  
• Reduce turnover by improving tenant satisfaction
  
  
• Protect long-term property value
  
  
• Fit seamlessly into your existing capital improvement plan
  
  

Whether you manage a single property or a large portfolio, our team helps you identify the upgrades that deliver measurable results and we handle the work from planning to completion.

Conclusion: Renovate Smarter for Bigger Returns

Upgrades like new entry doors, garage doors, stone veneers, kitchen refreshes, and siding replacements might not be flashy but they are proven winners when it comes to ROI. Each one offers a powerful combination of aesthetic improvement, tenant appeal, and long-term durability.

Don’t guess which renovations are worth the money. Make every decision based on return, performance, and future savings.

👉 Contact DOCI Today to start planning your next high-ROI renovation project with a team that understands what matters most.

‍