Kitchen renovations, bathroom upgrades, finished basements, home offices, energy-efficient improvements, and functional home additions typically offer the strongest return on investment. According to CMHC, increasing home value remains one of the leading reasons Canadians renovate, while the Appraisal Institute of Canada recommends choosing upgrades that improve functionality and market appeal to maximise resale value.
Canadian homeowners continue to view renovation as a practical investment. CMHC’s 2025 Mortgage Consumer Survey found that 74% of first-time buyers planned to renovate within five years, while 37% of homeowners planning renovations identified increasing property value as a primary reason. The Appraisal Institute of Canada also advises homeowners to choose upgrades that add measurable function and market appeal, since not every project produces the same return.
Working with experienced and reliable “general contractors near me” can significantly improve the achievement of aesthetic and functional goals and help secure a strong return on investment at sale.
Renovation Experts Prioritize Kitchens and Bathrooms for Stronger Buyer Appeal
Canadian homeowners continue to invest in renovations that improve both their lifestyles and their long-term property values. According to the 2025 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, these are the most commonly renovated interior spaces:
- Kitchen – 24%
- Bathroom – 24%
- Living Room
- Guest Bedroom
- Primary Bedroom
- Laundry Room
- Closet
- Dining Room
- Home Office
2024 Results (for comparison)
- The previous year’s survey found:
- Kitchen – 29%
- Guest Bathroom – 27%
- Primary Bathroom – 25%
- Living Room – 21%
Kitchens and bathrooms remain the most commonly renovated rooms in the United States. According to the 2025 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, both spaces were renovated by 24% of homeowners, followed by living rooms, bedrooms, laundry rooms, closets, dining rooms and home offices. These projects continue to rank among the most popular because they improve daily functionality while increasing buyer appeal.
Not every home improvement project requires structural changes. Use the comparison below to determine whether renovation or remodeling is right for you.
| Renovating | Remodeling |
✓ Repairs an existing space without changing the layout. ✓ Cosmetic upgrades such as painting, flooring, cabinets, lighting and fixtures. ✓ Lower project cost because structural work is limited. ✓ Shorter construction timeline. ✓ Fewer permits are unless structural work is involved. ✓ Better suited to homes that are still functional but look outdated. ✓ Less disruption to daily life. | ✓ Changes the layout, structure or function of a space. ✓ May involve removing walls, building additions or reconfiguring rooms. ✓ Higher project cost due to engineering, permits and structural work. ✓ Longer construction timeline. ✓ Building permits and inspections are commonly required. ✓ Ideal when the existing layout no longer meets your needs. ✓ Greater disruption during construction. |
According to CMHC’s 2025 Mortgage Consumer Survey, the most common reasons for renovating include customizing a home to better suit changing needs, increasing property value, improving energy efficiency, addressing maintenance issues, and adding secondary living space.
Interior Renovations That Deliver Strong Buyer Appeal
The best home upgrades for resale value are not always the most expensive. According to the Journal of Light Construction, exterior projects such as garage door replacement, steel entry doors, manufactured stone veneer and siding replacement deliver some of the strongest returns, while minor kitchen remodels remain one of the highest-performing interior upgrades. The following projects stand out for their ability to improve function, buyer appeal and property value.
Kitchen Remodels
A modern, well-equipped kitchen appeals universally to potential house buyers. Minor kitchen remodels can offer substantial returns by making some changes without altering the room’s layout. You can simply do any of the following:
→ Replace dated laminate countertops with quartz or engineered stone. Buyers also favour integrated sinks for a cleaner, seamless finish.
→ Install ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers and induction cooktops, to reduce energy consumption.
→ Refinish or reface solid cabinet boxes instead of replacing them, then add soft-close hinges, full-extension drawers and modern hardware.
→ Upgrade task and ambient lighting by adding recessed LED lights, under-cabinet lighting and pendant fixtures above an island or peninsula.
→ Replace worn backsplashes with large-format porcelain or ceramic tile that is easier to clean.
→ Improve storage without changing the layout by installing pull-out pantry shelves, corner cabinet organisers, deep pot drawers and built-in waste bins to maximise usable space.
These targeted upgrades improve how the kitchen looks and functions while avoiding the expense of a full structural remodel. For homeowners planning to sell, they also create the updated, move-in-ready appearance that many buyers expect.
Bathroom Upgrades
Midrange bathroom remodels recoup a substantial portion of their cost at resale, making them among the strongest interior investments for homeowners. Modern buyers also place greater emphasis on storage, larger showers, durable finishes and low-maintenance materials. Rather than completing a full bathroom remodel, many general contractors and bathroom designers recommend prioritising these additions that have the greatest visual and functional impact.
- Double-sink vanity
- Walk-in shower with frameless glass enclosure
- Freestanding soaking bathtub
- Quartz or engineered stone vanity countertop
- Heated tile flooring
- Built-in shower niche
- Recessed medicine cabinet
- Comfort-height dual-flush toilet
- LED backlit or oversized vanity mirror
- Dedicated linen cabinet or built-in storage tower
- Underfloor heating system
- Water-efficient rainfall shower with handheld spray
- Full-height porcelain or ceramic wall tile
- Floating vanity with soft-close drawers
- Smart exhaust fan with humidity sensor
One of the biggest cost drivers is changing the existing plumbing layout. General contractors consistently recommend keeping toilets, showers and vanities in their current locations whenever possible, as relocating drains, water lines or electrical services can add thousands of dollars in labour, permits and reconstruction.
According to Bathify’s Canadian renovation guide, a cosmetic refresh for a standard bathroom typically starts at CAD $6,000–$12,000, while a mid-range renovation with new tile, vanity, fixtures and lighting generally falls between CAD $14,000 and $26,000. Projects involving layout changes, relocated plumbing or custom showers can increase costs to CAD $26,000–$45,000 or more.
Refresh Your Front Yard With Budget-Friendly Improvements
You can strengthen curb appeal without creating a landscape that is costly to maintain. Native and drought-resistant plants help reduce watering, fertilizer use and long-term upkeep. The following improvements can add lasting value without requiring a large budget.
- Choose Low-Maintenance Landscaping: Select drought-resistant plants and use mulch to reduce weeds and watering needs.
- Maximize Small Spaces: Use vertical gardening to make small front yards look bigger and more welcoming.
- Opt for Budget-friendly Updates: Clean your yard, paint your front door, and use affordable walkway materials.
- Incorporate Colour: Select plants and decorations that complement your home’s colour scheme to create a cohesive look.
- Plan for Year-Round Appeal: Include plants with varying bloom times and evergreens to keep your yard looking good in all seasons.
- Layer Plantings: Use a mix of trees, shrubs, and groundcovers to create interest.
- Invest in Perennials: They return each year, reducing the need for replanting and providing consistent colour and texture.
- Use Containers for Flexibility: Containers can be moved around and updated seasonally, offering versatility in your landscaping
Smart Home Technology
Controlling your home with smart home technology offers a range of options for enhancing convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Controlling your home with smart technology includes:
- App Remote Control: Manage devices like shutters and lights via apps, saving energy and enhancing security.
- 433MHz RF Control: Control switches and blinds through walls with 433MHz frequency devices.
- Passive Infrared (PIR) Control: Use motion sensors for security and to automate lighting based on movement.
- Central Scene Control: Use smart panels or Home Assistant for centralized device management.
- Voice-Activated Control: Operate devices hands-free with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Cross-Device Control: Control appliances from smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches.
- Smart Scene Control: Automate device actions with customized scenes for convenience.
- Web-Based Control: Manage devices through a web browser without needing an app.
Home Improvements’ National Averages
Home renovations can enhance your living experience and offer financial benefits if you sell. A 2023 “Cost vs. Value” report provides insights into the return on investment for various home improvement projects, which compares renovation costs to the potential increase in property value.
| Project | Investment Cost | Value at Sale | Percentage of Cost Recouped |
|---|---|---|---|
|
HVAC System Update to Electric |
$17,747
|
$18,366 |
103.5% |
|
Replacement of Garage Door |
$4,302 |
$4,418 |
102.7% |
|
Application of Manufactured Stone Veneer |
$10,925 |
$11,177 |
102.3% |
|
Steel Entry Door Installation |
$2,214 |
$2,235 |
100.9% |
|
Vinyl Siding Update |
$16,348 |
$15,485 |
94.7% |
|
Fiber-Cement Siding Upgrade |
$19,361 |
$17,129 |
88.5% |
|
Midrange Kitchen Refresh |
$26,790 |
$22,963 |
85.7%
|
|
Vinyl Window Replacement |
$20,091 |
$13,766 |
68.5% |
|
Midrange Bathroom Overhaul |
$24,606 |
$16,413 |
66.7%
|
|
Wood Window Replacement
|
$24,376 |
$14,912 |
61.2%
|
|
Asphalt Shingle Roof Renewal |
$29,136
|
$17,807 |
61.1% |
|
Fiberglass Grand Entrance Addition |
$10,823 |
$5,457
|
50.4% |
|
Wooden Deck Construction |
$17,051 |
$8,553 |
50.2% |
|
Metal Roof Installation |
$47,414 |
$23,163 |
48.9%
|
|
Universal Design Bathroom Update |
$39,710 |
$18,270 |
46.0% |
|
Major Midrange Kitchen Overhaul |
$77,939 |
$32,574 |
41.8%
|
|
Composite Deck Addition |
$23,430 |
$9,325 |
39.8% |
|
Upscale Bathroom Remodel |
$76,827 |
$28,203 |
36.7% |
|
High-End Kitchen Redesign |
$154,483
|
$48,913 |
31.7%
|
|
Midrange Bathroom Extension |
$57,090 |
$17,237 |
30.2%
|
|
Midrange Primary Suite Expansion |
$157,855 |
$47,343 |
30.0% |
|
Upscale Bathroom Extension |
$104,733 |
$27,830 |
26.6%
|
|
Luxury Primary Suite Addition |
$325,504
|
$73,875 |
22.7% |
Key Projects for Maximum Value Enhancement
| Home Upgrade | Project Scope | Average Cost | ROI (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Basement Finish
|
400 – 1,500 sq ft
|
$15,000 – $50,000 |
75%
|
|
Veneer Stone Installation |
Exterior Accent |
Approx. $10,000 |
92% |
|
Deck or Patio Addition |
Outdoor Living Space |
Variable
|
75% (Deck)
55% (Patio) |
|
Luxury Kitchen Renovation |
Full or Minor Remodel
|
Starts at $20,000 |
55% (Full)
70% (Minor) |
The Best General Contractors in Nanaimo for Home Renovations
The success of any home renovation project, including adding a second storey, electrical upgrades, plumbing work, or major construction, depends on the experience of the general contractor and subcontractors managing the project. Choosing the best general contractors in Nanaimo, such as Nanaimo Builders & Renovation, can keep the project organised, meet local building requirements, and bring your renovation goals to life.
The right general contracting services will guide you through the overall completion process with great customer service. If you want excellent work to maximize your home’s value and ROI, Nanaimo, BC, has lots of general contractors, like Nanaimo Builders and Renovations, who ensure quality and structural stability. Don’t waste any time—start upscaling your property with these home additions and renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does adding square footage to a home affect its insurance?
Adding square footage can increase the cost of rebuilding your home, leading to higher insurance premiums. New bedrooms, home additions, finished basements and expanded living areas raise the property’s replacement value, so the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada recommends reviewing your coverage after major improvements to reduce the risk of being underinsured.
Before construction begins, contact your insurance provider and explain the full scope of the project. RBC Insurance notes that renovations can affect dwelling coverage, liability protection and the estimated rebuilding cost, while Ratehub advises homeowners to ask whether temporary renovation or builder’s risk coverage is required during construction.
What permits might be required for home renovations or additions?
Building permits play an important role in keeping renovation projects safe and compliant. Before construction begins, you should understand which approvals are required and how the City of Nanaimo’s Building Inspections team supports the permitting process.
- Residential Building Permit
- Alteration Permit
- Plumbing Permit
- Demolition Permit
- Accessory Building Permit
- Secondary Suite Permit
- Swimming Pool Permit
- Driveway (Access) Permit
- Retaining Wall Permit
Builders from Nanaimo Builders & Renovations can identify the permits and inspections required for the renovations listed above.
How long do home renovation projects typically take to complete?
The timeline for home renovation projects depends on their size and complexity.
- For small tasks, like painting, electrical work, or plumbing projects, expect a few days to a week.
- For larger renovations, such as kitchen remodeling, room construction, and any other home additions, the expected timeline could be one month to several months.
The planning, permit acquisition, and material procurement process also influence the project duration. To establish realistic timelines, consult with “general contractors near me” in Nanaimo, British Columbia.
