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The ROI of Bath & Kitchen Remodeling: Where the Smartest Upgrades Pay You Back

  • Jeffrey Rodgers
  • Dec 16, 2025
  • 4 min read

If you’re going to invest in your home, the kitchen and bathrooms are the two rooms where the return can show up twice: in your everyday quality of life and in your home’s resale value.


And the data backs it up. Americans spent an estimated $603 billion on home remodeling in 2024—because homeowners are prioritizing comfort, function, and long-term value. (nari.org)


So what actually delivers the best return? And how do you avoid pouring money into upgrades that look great but don’t pay you back?


Let’s break down the numbers—and the smartest ways to plan a bath or kitchen makeover that’s built for real ROI.


First: what “ROI” really means in remodeling

In remodeling, “return on investment” can mean a few different things:

  1. Resale ROI (the percent of your project cost you’ll typically recoup when you sell)

  2. Lifestyle ROI (how much better your home functions every day)

  3. Risk reduction ROI (preventing leaks, water damage, outdated plumbing issues, etc.)


Most homeowners should plan for a blend of all three—and that’s exactly where Viking Bath & Kitchen shines: we design renovations that look incredible and work flawlessly behind the walls.


The headline insight: “refresh” often beats “replace everything”

One of the most consistent findings across industry reports is this:


If ROI is your focus, the best ROI usually comes from midrange updates...


For example, the 2025 Cost vs. Value data shows:


In other words: the most profitable strategy is often a smart, targeted upgrade.


What upgrades deliver the best return in a kitchen?

1) A “minor kitchen remodel” (midrange) is the ROI sweet spot

The Cost vs. Value definition of a minor kitchen remodel focuses on high-impact changes without moving everything around: keeping cabinet boxes, updating fronts/hardware, replacing counters, adding a midpriced sink/faucet, upgrading appliances, and refreshing floors/paint.

That’s exactly why it performs: it delivers the “new kitchen feel” without the cost of major structural changes.


2) A major kitchen remodel may return less, but is still worth it if it fits your budget

A major remodel may include semi-custom cabinetry, an island, updated lighting, new appliances, and more—still valuable, but the cost climbs fast. This is where design discipline matters: spend where buyers (and you) notice most, and avoid budget drain in places that don’t move the needle.


Viking approach: We’ll help you choose upgrades that hit the “wow” factor (and daily usability) while keeping the plan focused on your budget and ROI needs.


What upgrades deliver the best return in a bathroom?

1) Midrange bathroom remodels consistently perform well

A midrange bathroom refresh typically includes fixture replacement, upgraded tub/shower surround, toilet, vanity top/sink, medicine cabinet/lighting, and flooring. This category shows strong recoup in Cost vs. Value national averages.


2) Universal design updates can add value and future-proof your home

If you’re thinking long-term, universal design features can be a powerful “two-for-one” ROI: easier daily living now, and broader buyer appeal later.

Cost vs. Value describes a universal design bath remodel as accessibility-driven: wider/zero-threshold entry, comfort-height toilet (often bidet-style), curbless shower, thermostatic mixing valve, humidity-sensing ventilation, improved lighting, and other safety-minded features. It recoups less than midrange in the national averages—but for many homeowners, the lifestyle + safety ROI is the real win.


Why you’ll see different ROI numbers in different reports (and why that’s normal)

You may notice another major report shows different cost recovery percentages.

In the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report (NAR/NARI), top cost recovery rates include:

  • Minor Kitchen Upgrade: 60%

  • Complete Kitchen Renovation: 60%

  • Bathroom Renovation: 50% (nari.org)


That doesn’t “contradict” Cost vs. Value—it highlights how ROI varies based on methodology (survey approach, definitions, and how “value” is calculated), plus market timing and local demand.


The takeaway that never changes: ✅ Targeted, practical upgrades can outperform luxury spend.


The “Best ROI” checklist for kitchens + baths

If you want the strongest return, prioritize improvements that buyers and homeowners feel immediately:


Kitchens: the highest-impact ROI levers

  • Keep the layout when possible (layout changes = cost spikes)

  • Upgrade countertops + backsplash (high visual impact)

  • Update sink/faucet (function + style)

  • Refresh cabinets (refacing or new fronts/hardware)

  • Layered lighting (task + ambient)

  • Add practical storage upgrades (pull-outs, organizers)


Bathrooms: the highest-impact ROI levers

  • Shower/tub modernization (tile, surround, fixtures)

  • Vanity + lighting upgrades (big visual payoff)

  • Water-smart fixtures (comfort + efficiency)

  • Ventilation improvements (moisture control)

  • Durable, timeless finishes (reduces “dated” risk)


And here’s the overlooked truth: the best-looking remodel can lose ROI if the plumbing behind it isn’t done right. Leaks, poor drainage, undersized lines, weak ventilation, and shortcut installs don’t just hurt performance—they can torch resale confidence.


That’s why Viking Bath & Kitchen isn’t “just a contractor.” We’re the partner that makes sure your dream space is built on rock-solid fundamentals.


Why Viking Bath & Kitchen is the go-to for bath & kitchen makeovers


A high-ROI remodel needs two things:

  1. Design that feels current and functional

  2. Craftsmanship you never have to worry about


Viking Bath & Kitchen brings both—especially for kitchens and bathrooms where plumbing, water management, and fixture performance are everything.

When you work with Viking, you get:

  • A team that understands what actually drives remodel value

  • Expertise in fixtures, layouts, and plumbing decisions that impact daily usability

  • Clean, professional installation and long-term reliability

  • A “plan-first” process that reduces surprises (and protects your budget)


If you’re thinking about a bath refresh, a kitchen upgrade, or a full remodel, Viking will help you invest with confidence—so your space pays you back in comfort now and value later.


Ready to plan your remodel around ROI?

If you want help choosing the upgrades that will make the biggest impact—without overspending—Viking can guide you from idea to install.

Call Viking Bath & Kitchen to schedule a bath or kitchen consultation, or stop in to our new Design Center to talk through options and next steps.


 
 
 

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