The Home Upgrade That Could Add Thousands to Your Resale Value

With mortgage rates still elevated and inventory tightening, homeowners are turning to upgrades that deliver measurable returns at resale. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, a minor kitchen remodel that includes countertop replacement recoups an average of 85.7% of its cost, making it one of the top-ranked home improvements for return on investment.

Real estate professionals say that in today’s competitive market, buyers are prioritizing move-in ready kitchens, and countertops play an outsized role in buyer perception. The National Association of Realtors’ 2023 Remodeling Impact Report found that upgraded countertops are among the most recommended projects by real estate agents preparing homes for sale.

“Countertops are one of the first visual cues that tell a buyer if a kitchen feels modern and maintained,” said Adam Narvaez, owner of Southern Stoneworks. “Granite and quartz not only stand up to daily use but also signal quality, which can help homes sell faster and at stronger price points.”

Industry data confirms buyer preferences. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) reports that quartz now accounts for more than 40% of U.S. countertop installations, reflecting a demand for durable, low-maintenance surfaces that combine functionality with design appeal. Meanwhile, surveys by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) show that more than 75% of buyers place a modern kitchen high on their wish list when shopping for a new home.

Florida’s housing trends add a local dimension. Outdoor living upgrades, particularly outdoor kitchens, are among the fastest-growing features in the state, according to the 2024 Home Design Trends Report from the American Institute of Architects. Stone countertops are increasingly used in these spaces because they withstand heat and humidity better than many synthetic alternatives, making them both a design and durability upgrade.

At the same time, material costs remain a consideration. HomeAdvisor estimates that stone countertop installations typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 nationally, depending on material and square footage. While that investment may feel significant, experts note the strong ROI positions it as one of the most efficient ways to add value without a full renovation.

“Today’s buyers are walking in with high standards and limited patience for renovation projects,” Narvaez added. “For sellers, that means even a targeted upgrade like countertops can make the difference between weeks on the market and multiple offers.”

Contact Information:

Southern Stoneworks

7064 Sampey Rd #16
Groveland, FL 34736
United States

Adam Narvaez
(352) 557-8169
https://www.southernstoneworksfl.com/