The ROI of Design: How Smart Renovations Increase Your Home’s Value

Sep 18

When it comes to homeownership, renovations are about more than just making your space feel new again—they’re an investment strategy. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to protect your long-term equity, the design decisions you make today will influence tomorrow’s property value. In a market like Winnipeg, where buyers are highly value-conscious and inventory moves fast, knowing which updates deliver the best return on investment (ROI) is key.

Let’s break down the renovations that truly matter when it comes to resale—and the ones that might not give you the payoff you’re expecting.

Kitchens: The Heart of ROI

It’s no surprise that kitchens top the list. In Winnipeg’s market, buyers consistently place a high value on updated, functional, and stylish kitchens. That doesn’t mean you need a $100,000 chef’s kitchen to add value. Strategic updates such as reworking the layout for better flow, adding a large island, upgrading countertops to quartz, and swapping dated cabinetry for timeless finishes deliver the most impact.

Worth it: Layout improvements, quartz or granite countertops, quality cabinetry, statement lighting, modern appliances.
Skip it: Overly trendy colours, ultra-luxury appliances (unless it’s a luxury listing), or high-end features that price your home out of the neighbourhood.

Bathrooms: Function + Luxury in Balance

An outdated bathroom can be a dealbreaker. Buyers in Winnipeg are drawn to bathrooms that feel fresh, clean, and spa-inspired—but you don’t need heated floors and a rain shower system in every listing. Focus instead on modern tile, updated vanities, good lighting, and neutral palettes that feel universally appealing.

Worth it: New tile (especially in showers), double vanities where space allows, clean finishes like matte black or brushed nickel, and better lighting.
Skip it: Over-customized features, overly bold tile patterns, or jetted tubs (these rarely recoup the cost).

Flooring: Consistency is King

One of the biggest silent killers of resale value? Inconsistent or dated flooring. Buyers in Winnipeg expect main living spaces to have cohesive, durable, and attractive flooring—hardwood or quality luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is always a safe bet. Carpet in bedrooms is acceptable, but in living spaces it tends to feel dated.

Worth it: Upgrading to hardwood or LVP, keeping flooring consistent across main spaces, and repairing damaged areas before listing.
Skip it: Exotic hardwoods that are expensive but polarizing, or budget laminate that wears quickly.

Where ROI Starts to Drop

While kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring almost always deliver a strong return, not every upgrade carries the same weight. Things like elaborate basement theatres, custom built-ins for hobbies, or high-end landscaping often don’t recoup their cost at resale. These can make your home more enjoyable while you live in it—but they’re less likely to influence buyers’ offers.

In Winnipeg, the pool of buyers is smaller than in major metro areas, which means staying aligned with market expectations is critical. Invest where buyers are already placing value, and resist the urge to “over-renovate” for your neighbourhood.

The Bottom Line

Renovations aren’t just about what looks good—they’re about what sells. In Winnipeg, buyers reward updates that improve flow, functionality, and timeless style. If you’re planning to renovate, think like both a homeowner and an investor: create spaces you love, but keep an eye on how those choices will position your property in the market.

And remember—design is not just about finishes. It’s about strategy. Smart, thoughtful updates are the secret to protecting and growing your home’s value.