If you’re a homeowner looking to improve the value of your property, you may be considering a home renovation project. When it comes to increasing your home’s value, however, not all projects are created equal.

According to the Appraisal Institute, not all home improvement projects offer a full return on their investment, so if you’re looking to put your home on the market soon, you should prioritize renovations that focus on energy efficiency, safety or working from home.

The pandemic has put health and environmental awareness at the top of everyone’s mind. Among the top design trends are reusing furniture, repurposing flooring and adopting sustainable materials and lighting that consume less energy, and using sustainable building materials like bamboo or cork. 

Solar panels take eco-friendliness even further and can also bring added value. In areas prone to wildfires or flooding, expect to see landscaping that is both eye-catching and protective, as well as exterior walls of brick or stone. 

More time spent at home over the past two years has also led to an increased focus on safety and storage in the home. HVAC units with "whole house" air-filtration systems or anti-microbial tile could bring more value to your home. So can renovations that enable aging in place such as roll-in showers, grab bars and non-slip flooring.

One of the greatest trends sparked by the pandemic has been the migration to work from home. If you’re interested in selling or remodeling, consider the use of multifunctional rooms and updating spaces that can serve as study halls and work zones, complete with fast WiFi connections, virtual meeting setups, comfortable seating and plenty of charging stations.

Instead of using the dining room table or corner of your bedroom as a space to focus, carve out dedicated spaces for functionality. Office space must be organized, functional and bright—and simple updates like paint or lighting changes can make a big difference. 

To find out whether or not a home improvement will add value to your home, consult a local real estate expert or appraiser. Remember, though, that some home improvement projects are worthwhile simply because they improve your quality of life.