A well-planned home remodel can dramatically improve your comfort, lifestyle, and property value—but it’s easy to go too far and end up overbuilding for your neighborhood. In Northbrook, where housing styles and price points vary widely, smart planning is key.
Whether you’re working with home remodeling contractors in Chicago, Illinois, or managing a project on your own, this guide shares top home remodeling tips to help you boost your home’s value without sinking too much into upgrades that won’t pay off.
Let’s talk strategy—and ROI.
Know Your Home’s Ceiling Value
Before investing in a major home remodel, research your home’s market cap—the maximum resale value based on neighborhood comps. In Northbrook, this can vary dramatically block to block.
If your home is already at the top of the price range, adding a luxury kitchen or custom basement might not generate enough ROI (return on investment) to justify the cost.
Pro Tip:
Ask a local real estate agent or appraiser to help you understand the top-end value for homes like yours in your area.
Focus on Remodels That Add Value
Not all home remodels are created equal. Some upgrades provide strong returns, like kitchen remodels; others are better suited for personal enjoyment rather than resale.
High-ROI Remodels in Northbrook:
Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)
- National ROI: ~70–78%
- Northbrook ROI: Often higher with updated layouts and energy-efficient appliances
- Focus on: Upgrading cabinets, adding quartz or granite countertops, updating lighting, and replacing appliances
Bathroom Remodel (Midrange)
- National ROI: ~60–67%
- Northbrook ROI: Higher if your home only has one bathroom or an outdated layout
- Focus on: Walk-in showers, modern vanities, low-flow fixtures, and quality tile work
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
- New windows, attic insulation, or HVAC systems reduce energy bills and appeal to buyers.
Curb Appeal Enhancements
- Minor landscaping, new doors, and fresh paint often offer a big impact for a low home remodel cost.
Avoid Overpersonalization
While it’s tempting to design your dream space, highly customized remodels can limit resale appeal. Think twice before adding a home recording studio, built-in fish tank, or exotic imported tile.
If you are planning to sell in the near future, stick to home remodeling projects that create universal appeal like:
- Neutral color palettes
- Simple cabinet styles
- Versatile layouts
- Quality over flash
If you plan to stay long-term, go ahead and personalize—but if resale is within 5 years, keep buyers in mind.
Match the Market—Not Just Your Taste
In Northbrook, buyers expect different things depending on the neighborhood and home type. An ultra-modern kitchen may feel out of place in a mid-century ranch, and a high-end basement bar might not make sense in a starter home.
How to Stay in Sync:
- Check listings for nearby homes to see what’s selling
- Tour open houses to evaluate competing properties
- Ask home remodeling contractors (like us!) in and around Chicago, Illinois what upgrades they’re seeing success with locally
The best home remodels that add value are the ones that elevate your home while fitting seamlessly into the local market.
Understand Home Remodel Cost vs. Value
A common mistake? Confusing home remodel cost with value added. Spending $100K doesn’t guarantee a $100K increase in resale value. In fact, most projects recoup between 50–75% of their cost.
Realistic Cost Expectations in Northbrook:
Remodel Type / Avg. Cost (Midrange) / Avg. ROI (%)
Kitchen Remodel / $25,000–$50,000 / 70–75%
Bathroom Remodel / $15,000–$30,000 / 60–67%
Basement Finishing / $20,000–$40,000 / 50–60%
New Windows (whole home) / $10,000–$20,000 / 60–70%
Want to make every dollar count? Start with the spaces buyers care most about—kitchens and bathrooms—and aim for quality upgrades rather than lavish overhauls.
Work With the Right Contractors
Choosing the right team is one of the most important home remodeling tips we can offer. Reputable home remodeling contractors in and around Chicago, Illinois, understand the balance between improving functionality and avoiding overbuilding.
What to Look For:
- Transparent pricing and detailed estimates
- Local references in Northbrook or surrounding suburbs
- Knowledge of permit requirements and zoning laws
- Insight into what upgrades pay off in your specific area
A good contractor won’t just understand your vision—they’ll help you improve it, with home remodel suggestions that make financial sense.
Maximize Function, Not Just Size
Instead of:
- Adding a massive master suite
Consider:
- Reworking existing space to create a walk-in closet or dual-vanity bath
Instead of:
Consider:
- Finishing the basement or attic
Home remodeling that boosts function—storage, flow, efficiency—typically delivers more value than excessive square footage.
Final Thoughts: Remodel Smart, Not Big
In Northbrook, the smartest home remodel is one that meets your needs today and positions you for success tomorrow. Focus on home remodels that add value, avoid overcustomization, and align your plans with your neighborhood’s market.
Whether it’s a strategic roi kitchen remodel or a thoughtful just-for-you bathroom remodel, let data—not just design—guide your decisions.
Ready to Remodel?
Consult with Moller Builders today, your trusted home remodeling contractors in Northbrook, Illinois. We understand both value and vision when it comes to home remodels. Your dream home doesn’t need to break the bank—or outpace the block.
