When it comes to home renovations, most homeowners are laser-focused on return on investment (ROI). And it makes sense—any value you add becomes equity in your pocket, not the bank’s.

But amid all the talk about ROI and resale appeal, one important factor often gets overlooked: your happiness.

“Homeowners undertake remodeling projects for numerous reasons, but what remains intriguing is the disparity between the joy experienced post-remodel and the actual cost recovery,” shares Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research with National Association of Realtors® (NAR).

So before diving into your next home project, in addition to asking your agent about the ROI of any planned projects, ask yourself: Does it spark joy?

If you’re remodeling your kitchen, the answer is likely a resounding “yes,” according to the NAR 2025 Remodeling Impact Report. Among all the projects surveyed, a kitchen remodel stood out as the one most likely to increase both personal satisfaction and property value.

Why the kitchen?

“The kitchen tends to be the heart of the home,” says Renae Watkins, office manager for Kitchen Solvers of McCook. “It’s a central hub and one of the most-used spaces in any home. This is where people tend to gather to connect whether it be morning coffee or a holiday.”

That sense of centrality is exactly what makes a kitchen remodel so satisfying. Unlike a guest bathroom or spare bedroom—spaces you might only use occasionally—the kitchen is in constant use. Every upgrade, from new cabinets to better lighting, offers a daily dose of joy.

It’s also a smart investment. In the last two years, 48% of Realtors have seen increased demand for kitchen upgrades, and 30% recommend completing a kitchen remodel before listing a home.

Why? Not only will these updates help your listing shine, but homeowners can expect a 60% return on investment for both minor and major kitchen projects, the NAR report estimates.

With strong buyer appeal and everyday functionality, a well-designed kitchen can make your daily routines easier and make your home more valuable. What’s more joyful than that?

What makes for a joyful kitchen remodel?

Joy comes from a kitchen that works well, lasts long, and looks good—every single day.

“Homeowners report that the most important outcomes from remodeling projects are improved functionality and livability (28%); durable and long-lasting results, materials and appliances (23%); and enhanced beauty and aesthetics (23%),” according to the NAR report.

What's striking here is just how much longevity plays a role in both visual appeal and long-term satisfaction. Watkins recommends quartz countertops, shaker or slab-front cabinets, and classic backsplash choices like subway tile, natural stone, or handcrafted-look designs to fill all the buckets of functionality, durability, and aesthetics.

How to maximize both joy and value

To get the most out of your kitchen remodel—both emotionally and financially—it pays to be strategic. These expert-backed tips will help you create a space you’ll love to live in now and that buyers will love later.

Functionality should always come first. That means optimizing storage, improving the layout, and creating better flow throughout the space.

“If you want to make your kitchen more valuable to you … focus on adding usable space to it. Most kitchens these days are overloaded with small appliances and other sources of clutter,” says Bar Zakheim, CEO of Better Place Design & Build.

Conversely, if you want to make your home more appealing to potential buyers, stick with timeless over trendy options. While style preferences evolve, foundational design choices like quality cabinetry, neutral palettes, and classic finishes tend to age well.

Don’t underestimate the power of small updates. Even minor, budget-friendly changes can dramatically improve your kitchen’s appeal.

“People tend to underestimate the impact that small changes can make to a kitchen’s overall design and appeal,” says Diana Viera, managing partner at ITALKRAFT. “Updating the hardware is an inexpensive upgrade that can completely transform the aesthetic of the kitchen.

For an added bonus, consider adding some mood lighting.

“If your electric setup allows for it, adding under-cabinet lighting can add a lot of depth and drama for a relatively low cost,” recommends Ryan Dossey, co-founder of SoldFast.com.

But don’t try and save a buck on labor. A DIY approach may work for some cosmetic projects, but kitchens are complex and mistakes can be costly.

“There’s a real sense of pride in DIY, but the kitchen is such a high-traffic, high-function space that I always recommend bringing in the pros,” says Sabrina Phillips, owner, contractor, and interior designer at Designing Women of Orange County.

“There are many details in which a DIYer could miss or not think of how else to use the space. So, it’s definitely worth the investment as it saves consumers a lot of heartache and money by preventing costly mistakes," she adds. "These mistakes will be avoided if they hire a professional designer.”

When a remodel doesn’t make sense

As satisfying as a kitchen remodel can be, it’s not always the right move.

If you’re planning to sell soon and won’t have time to recoup the investment, it may be smarter to focus on smaller cosmetic upgrades. Likewise, if your design plans stray too far from what buyers expect in your area, you could risk turning them off instead of adding value.

And if the project would stretch your budget to the breaking point? It might not be worth the stress. After all, the goal is to spark joy—not a panic attack.

"Call Eli Torres at (832) 430-2107, for your home buying and selling needs."

Source: www.realtor.com