Home Improvement January 30, 2026

Top 5 Home Improvements That Increase Property Value in New Jersey 

For New Jersey homeowners, real estate is more than just a place to live—it’s a long-term investment. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home in New Jersey or planning future upgrades, choosing the right renovations can significantly boost your home’s resale value. 

With NJ’s competitive housing market—especially in areas like Jersey City, Hoboken, Bergen County, Essex County, and Middlesex County—buyers are looking for move-in-ready, energy-efficient, and modern homes. Below are the top five home improvements that add the most property value in New Jersey. 

 

  1. Kitchen Renovations That Appeal to New Jersey Buyers

A modern kitchen is one of the biggest selling points for homes in New Jersey. Buyers consistently rank kitchen upgrades as a top priority when shopping for homes. 

Why kitchens matter in the New Jersey real estate market:
Many NJ homes—especially older properties—benefit greatly from updated kitchens that blend functionality with contemporary design. 

High-ROI kitchen upgrades include: 

  • Energy-efficient stainless steel appliances 
  • Quartz or granite countertops 
  • Updated or refaced cabinets 
  • Modern lighting and backsplashes 

A mid-range kitchen remodel can deliver a 70–80% return on investment, making it one of the smartest home improvements for increasing property value in NJ. 

✅ Local tip: Open-concept kitchens are especially popular in North Jersey and commuter-friendly towns. 

 

  1. Bathroom Remodels That Increase Home Value in NJ

Bathroom upgrades are another high-impact improvement for New Jersey homes. Even small updates can make a big difference in buyer perception. 

Popular bathroom upgrades among NJ homeowners include: 

  • Walk-in showers with glass enclosures 
  • Updated vanities and water-saving fixtures 
  • Neutral tile and modern finishes 
  • Improved lighting and ventilation 

Updated bathrooms signal that a home has been well cared for—an important factor for buyers in the New Jersey housing market. 

✅ ROI insight: Bathroom remodels typically recoup 60–70% of renovation costs. 

 

  1. Energy-Efficient Home Improvements in New Jersey

With cold winters, hot summers, and rising energy costs, energy-efficient home upgrades are especially valuable in New Jersey. 

Top energy-efficient improvements for NJ homes: 

  • Energy-efficient windows and doors 
  • Improved insulation 
  • High-efficiency HVAC systems 
  • Smart thermostats 

Many upgrades qualify for New Jersey energy rebates and tax incentives, making them both cost-effective and attractive to buyers. 

✅ Buyer appeal: Energy-efficient homes in NJ often sell faster and at higher prices due to lower utility bills. 

 

  1. Boost Curb Appeal to Stand Out in New Jersey Neighborhoods

Curb appeal plays a major role in home value across New Jersey’s suburban and urban neighborhoods. 

Exterior upgrades that add value in NJ include: 

  • New siding or exterior paint 
  • Updated front doors and garage doors 
  • Professional landscaping 
  • Roof repairs or replacement 

Strong curb appeal helps your home stand out in competitive markets like Jersey City, Union County, and Morris County. 

✅ Quick win: Landscaping improvements alone can increase property value by up to 10%. 

 

  1. Finished Basements & Additional Living Space

Finished basements are highly desirable in New Jersey, where space is often limited and multi-purpose rooms are in demand. 

Popular uses for finished basements in NJ homes: 

  • Home offices and remote workspaces 
  • In-law suites for multigenerational living 
  • Entertainment or media rooms 

A finished basement adds livable square footage without expanding the home’s footprint—one of the highest ROI renovations in New Jersey. 

✅ Local advantage: In-law suites are especially valuable for NJ families seeking flexible living arrangements. 

 

Final Thoughts: Smart Home Improvements for New Jersey Homeowners 

If you’re looking to increase your home’s value in New Jersey, focus on renovations that align with local buyer expectations: modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, energy efficiency, strong curb appeal, and flexible living spaces. 

Before starting any renovation project: 

  • Research local New Jersey home values 
  • Avoid over-improving beyond your neighborhood’s market 
  • Work with professionals familiar with NJ building codes and buyer trends 

 

✅ Call to Action: Ready to Increase Your Home’s Value in New Jersey? 

Thinking about upgrading your home or preparing it for sale in the New Jersey market? 

📞 Contact me today to find out which upgrades will deliver the highest return on investment for your specific location. 

Whether you’re in Jersey City, North Jersey, Central Jersey, or the Shore, expert guidance can help you maximize your home’s value and sell with confidence. 

👉 Start your home value improvement journey today—your future equity depends on it. 

 Portia.asare@cbrealty.com