Best Home Renovation ROI? Study Says It’s Not the Kitchen or Bath

When it comes to renovations that actually pay off in Texas, curb appeal is king.

A new study by Oakridge Remodels ranked the most profitable home improvements across the state, and topping the list wasn’t a full kitchen redo or spa bathroom — it was a stone veneer addition.

The study was based on the Journal of Light Construction 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, which compared average costs for 23 remodeling projects with the value those projects retain at resale in 150 U.S. markets. The study found that Texas homeowners who added manufactured stone veneer to the exterior of their homes saw, on average, more than double their investment back at resale. That’s a better return than just about any other project, even nationally.

The next best bets? Doors, apparently. Replacing your entry door ranked No. 2 in most profitable home renovations, while replacing your garage doors ranked No. 3, delivering ROI percentages well above the 100% mark. Translation: not only do these updates improve the look of your home, they also more than pay for themselves when it’s time to sell.

1 – Stone veneer addition

A manufactured stone veneer upgrade gives your home the look of real stone without the structural cost. It’s typically added to the lower front façade or around entryways to elevate curb appeal. This project topped the list in Texas with a whopping 224.88% return on investment — meaning it more than doubles your money at resale. It’s also one of the top three most profitable renovations nationwide.

2 – Entry door replacement (steel)

Swapping out your front door for a steel one might not sound exciting, but it sends a strong first impression — both visually and in terms of security. While the Texas data includes an eyebrow-raising project cost, nationally, this renovation is one of the most profitable, landing in the top two for 38 states. It’s a quick curb appeal win that pays off.

3 – Garage door replacement

A fresh garage door — especially one with modern materials, smart features, or upgraded hardware — can dramatically boost a home’s appearance. In Texas, it’s another high-ROI project with a 150.58% return. Nationally, it ranks as the most profitable home renovation, period.

4 – Grand entrance addition (fiberglass)

This involves installing a larger, often double-height fiberglass door system — sometimes with sidelights or a transom — to create a more striking, elevated entry. While the visual impact is big, the ROI in Texas falls just short of breaking even at resale. It’s a high-dollar upgrade best suited for personal enjoyment.

5 – Minor kitchen remodeling

Think cosmetic refresh — not gut job. A minor kitchen remodel typically includes new cabinet fronts, updated hardware, energy-efficient appliances, and fresh countertops. While it may be the most common renovation in resale prep, it doesn’t always translate to profit in Texas, coming in with an 86.24% return on investment.

Oakridge Remodels founder Arthur Taylor said the findings underscore the importance of picking projects with strong ROI — especially if the goal is to sell or rent in a competitive market.

“Renovations can be great for aesthetics,” he said. “But if your goal is to increase property value, it’s best to stick to projects with a return on investment over 100%. This ensures you’re not only improving your home but also maximizing the financial benefits.”

In other words: stone, steel, and simple upgrades still go a long way — especially in Texas, where first impressions matter and buyers value move-in-ready curb appeal.