Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or want to increase your comfort and add value to our investment, making improvements can pay off. However, not all renovations pay off equally. The smartest updates are those that improve your day-to-day living and appeal to future buyers down the road.

Here are five practical, ROI-friendly upgrades to consider for your Long Beach home.

1. Refresh Your Kitchen — Without a Full Remodel

A complete kitchen overhaul can cost tens of thousands, but small changes often bring the biggest impact. Consider refinishing or refacing cabinets instead of replacing them. Updating hardware and swapping out dated light fixtures can be very cost-effective improvements also.

Depending on the age and style of your flooring and counter tops, you may also consider replacing them. In neighborhoods like Los Altos, where many homes were built in the 1950s, or in neighborhoods like Rose Park and Belmont Heights, were many homes were built in the 1920s, some kitchens are still “classic vintage” style. If that’s the case with your kitchen, your best ROI may be to make minor modifications rather than launch a full-scale remodel. Have an experienced local real estate agent take a look at your home if you’re considering selling to make sure that your choices will appeal to buyers as well as to you.

2. Update Bathrooms for a Clean, Timeless Feel

Buyers notice bathrooms — and so will you every day. Focus on simple updates: fresh tile, new lighting, or a new vanity or sink. Frameless shower doors and neutral finishes can make a smaller bath feel larger and brighter.

If you’re budget-minded, regrouting tile and replacing outdated mirrors or faucets can deliver a fresh look for surprisingly little cost. And even fresh paint can give a small space a whole new look. 

3. Improve Energy Efficiency

Energy-smart upgrades are increasingly popular in Southern California, where long-term savings and sustainability go hand in hand. Installing a smart thermostat, replacing older windows, or adding ceiling insulation can cut energy bills and make your home more comfortable.

Buyers love seeing these updates — especially in older Long Beach homes where efficiency can be an issue. And if you’re thinking about resale, a lower utility bill is always a great selling point. 

If you’re thinking about adding solar panels, be sure to weigh the monthly savings against the overall cost. It typically takes a while for you to recoup the savings from solar panels. And selling a home with leased solar panels can add extra complications. Talk to a local real estate agent about your plans before deciding to make any major changes if you’re considering selling your home in Long Beach in the next few years. 

4. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions start at the curb. Simple steps like repainting your front door, updating house numbers, or replacing tired outdoor lighting can transform your home’s exterior. Make sure to refresh your landscaping, cutting back or removing any plants that aren’t thriving and adding mulch to give your flower-beds a polished look. 

You may want to consider replacing your lawn with drought-tolerant landscaping. Long Beach offers financial incentives through its Lawn to Garden program. 

5. Create Flexible Living Space

Today’s buyers value versatility. Converting unused space into a home office, gym, or guest area can expand your home’s appeal. In many Long Beach homes with smaller footprints, making every square foot functional is key.

Think built-in storage, multifunctional furniture, or even a simple refresh of a garage or bonus room — all ways to add livable value without major construction.

Keep Resale in Mind, Even If You’re Not Selling Yet

Even if moving isn’t on your radar, making thoughtful updates now means your home will be ready when the time comes — and you’ll get to enjoy the improvements in the meantime.

If you have any thoughts of selling your home in the next year, then it’s important to talk with a local real estate agent about their potential ROI. Many projects don’t add what they cost. Before you spend money on improving your home, reach out so we can connect you with a local expert.