Home Renovations That Increase Value in Toronto — Expert Guide by Cedarwood Development Group
- Sarita Patel
- Aug 9
- 5 min read
If you’re a homeowner in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), you’ve probably wondered: Which renovations give me the biggest return on my investment? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all — it depends on your home’s condition, your neighborhood’s market, and buyer expectations.
From kitchen remodels to smart home upgrades, the right improvements can boost resale value, attract more buyers, and even help your home sell faster. This guide breaks down the most value-adding renovations, including cost estimates for Toronto & GTA, ROI (return on investment) percentages, DIY vs. hiring a pro, and insider tips from Cedarwood Development Group — your local renovation experts.
Why Renovations Matter for Home Value
In a competitive real estate market like Toronto, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, King City, and Mississauga, buyers are looking for modern finishes, energy efficiency, and functional layouts. Renovations that address these demands typically deliver the best ROI.
Pro Tip: Cosmetic upgrades might make your home look great, but structural improvements (like roof replacement or attic insulation) often protect value in the long run.
Top 10 Home Renovations That Increase Value in Toronto
Renovation Type | Avg. Cost in Toronto & GTA | Potential ROI | Pro Tip |
Kitchen Remodel | $15,000–$80,000 | 60–80% | Invest in quality cabinetry & quartz countertops |
Bathroom Upgrade | $10,000–$40,000 | 55–70% | Add a walk-in shower with glass enclosure |
Basement Renovation | $45,000–$110,000 | 60–75% | Include a legal rental suite for extra income |
Curb Appeal (Landscaping, Interlocking) | $10,000–$45,000 | 50–70% | Low-maintenance plants & stone pathways |
Roof Replacement | $7,000–$15,000 | 50–65% | Use architectural shingles for better aesthetics |
Window Replacement | $10,000–$35,000 | 50–70% | Energy-efficient windows boost value & comfort |
Smart Home Upgrades | $2,000–$10,000 | 40–60% | Smart thermostat, lighting, & security cameras |
Epoxy Garage Floors | $4,000–$10,000 | 50–60% | Durable, modern look increases perceived value |
Attic Insulation | $3,000–$6,000 | 40–55% | Lowers energy bills — buyers love efficiency |
Painting | $6,000–$15,000 | 60–75% | Neutral colors make spaces feel bigger & brighter |
Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen remodels are among the most popular home renovations that increase value in Toronto because they transform the heart of the home into a functional and beautiful space that appeals to buyers.
Why It Adds Value:
Creates a focal point for entertaining and daily life
Boosts functionality with better layouts and storage
Appeals to the widest range of buyers with neutral, timeless finishes
Estimated Cost: $15,000–$80,000
Potential ROI: 60–80%
Pro Tip: Avoid ultra-trendy colors — opt for timeless neutrals to appeal to the widest audience. Quartz countertops, under-cabinet lighting, and soft-close cabinetry are big selling points in Toronto.
Bathroom Upgrade
Bathrooms are personal spaces where design meets function. A beautifully upgraded bathroom signals quality and care to potential buyers.
Why It Adds Value:
Modern designs feel fresh and clean
Adds a sense of luxury with heated floors, rainfall showers, and freestanding tubs
Maximizes small spaces with smart layouts
Estimated Cost: $10,000–$40,000
Potential ROI: 55–70%
Pro Tip: Frameless glass showers and double sinks are high-demand features in the GTA market.
✅ Let’s transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
📞 Call or text us at (437) 477-7366 for your FREE quote today.
Basement Renovation — Space That Pays
A finished basement adds valuable square footage and can be a huge selling point, especially when designed as a legal rental suite.
Why It Adds Value:
Extra living space for recreation, offices, or guest rooms
Potential for income-generating rental units
Increases usable space without changing your home’s footprint
Estimated Cost: $45,000–$110,000
Potential ROI: 60–75%
Pro Tip: Ensure rental units meet code to maximize resale and avoid legal issues.
✅ Make your basement work harder for you.
📞 Call or text (437) 477-7366 for a free estimate.
Curb Appeal — First Impressions Sell
Toronto’s real estate market is competitive, and curb appeal upgrades like interlocking driveways, fresh landscaping, and exterior lighting can set your home apart.
Why It Adds Value:
Increases perceived value before buyers step inside
Low-maintenance materials appeal to busy buyers
Enhances your home’s architecture
Estimated Cost: $5,000–$45,000
Potential ROI: 50–70%
✅ Boost your curb appeal today.
📞 Call or text (437) 477-7366 for your free consultation.
Roof Replacement — Protecting Your Investment
While not as glamorous as a kitchen remodel, a new roof offers peace of mind to buyers and prevents inspection issues.
Why It Adds Value:
Prevents costly water damage
Improves energy efficiency
Enhances exterior aesthetics
Estimated Cost: $7,000–$15,000
Potential ROI: 50–65%
Pro Tip: Architectural shingles offer better durability and curb appeal.
Window Replacement
Signs Your Windows Need Replacing:
Drafts or rising energy bills
Difficulty opening/closing
Visible rot or condensation between panes
Estimated Cost: $8,000–$20,000
Potential ROI: 50–70%
Pro Tip: Choose Smart Home Upgrades — Modern Must-Haves
Smart home tech is becoming a standard expectation among GTA buyers.
Popular Upgrades:
Smart thermostats
Automated lighting
Video doorbells & security cameras
Estimated Cost: $2,000–$10,000Potential ROI: 40–60%
✅ Upgrade your home with the latest smart technology.
📞 Call or text (437) 477-7366 for your free quote.
Epoxy Garage Floors
At Cedarwood Development Group, we specialize in premium epoxy flooring solutions for garages, basements, and commercial spaces across Toronto & GTA. Epoxy creates a seamless, durable surface that resists stains, cracks, and chemicals, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
Why Homeowners Choose Epoxy Flooring in Toronto:
Long-Lasting: Properly installed epoxy can last 15–20 years with minimal maintenance.
Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a range of colors, metallic finishes, and decorative flakes.
Easy to Clean: Resists oil, road salt, and other spills — perfect for Canadian winters.
Boosts Value: Adds a professional, high-end look that buyers love.
Estimated Cost: $4,000–$8,000
Potential ROI: 50–60%
Pro Tip: Always prep the concrete surface properly — grinding and sealing are essential for long-term durability in Toronto’s climate.
✅ Thinking about epoxy for your garage, basement, or commercial space?
📞 Call or text us at (437) 477-7366 for your FREE quote today.
Attic Insulation
Increases energy efficiency and reduces heating/cooling costs — a big plus in Canadian winters.
Painting — Fastest ROI Upgrade
A fresh coat of paint is affordable, fast, and high-impact.
Why It Adds Value:
Makes spaces look newer and larger
Neutral colors appeal to more buyers
Hides wear and tear
Estimated Cost: $4,000–$10,000Potential ROI: 60–75%
✅ Refresh your home with professional painting.
📞 Call or text (437) 477-7366 for your free estimate.
Driveway Sealing — Small Upgrade, Big Difference
Driveway sealing restores color, protects against weather damage, and gives your property a cared-for look — a quick way to improve curb appeal.
Why It Adds Value:
Prevents cracks and extends driveway life
Boosts visual appeal from the street
Protects against salt and weather damage
Estimated Cost: $400–$1,200Potential ROI: 30–50%
✅ Book your driveway sealing today and protect your investment.
📞 Call or text (437) 477-7366 now.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional in Toronto & GTA
Pros & Cons Table:
Approach | Pros | Cons |
DIY | Saves money, personal satisfaction, flexibility | Risk of mistakes, no warranty, longer timelines |
Hire a Pro | High-quality work, faster completion, warranties | Higher upfront cost, must find a reliable contractor |
Pro Tip: For large-scale renovations like kitchens, basements, and roofing — always hire a licensed contractor like Cedarwood Development Group for safety, permits, and quality.
Renovation Do’s & Don’ts for Maximum ROI
Do’s:
Choose timeless over trendy finishes.
Invest in energy efficiency.
Focus on functional improvements buyers appreciate.
Don’ts:
Over-customize to your taste only.
Ignore needed repairs before cosmetic changes.
Forget to pull permits where required.
Renovating is an investment — and in Toronto & GTA’s competitive market, the right upgrades can deliver substantial returns. At Cedarwood Development Group, we handle everything from design to final inspection, ensuring your renovations are beautiful, functional, and market-ready.
📞 Call us today at (437) 477-7366 or email info@cedarwooddevelopment.ca to start your renovation journey. 💻 Click here to get started.
