Fastest Renovations That Add the Most Value to a Flip
When flipping a property, both speed and return on investment (ROI) are important. According to multiple expert sources, certain renovations stand out for their ability to add value quickly and effectively.
Here are the top ones and how to execute them smartly.
- Fresh paint and neutral color scheme
According to real estate experts from Calnan Property, painting the property is one of the fastest and cheapest upgrades, but with a meaningful impact. Interior painting and updating color palettes can have a 100% ROI on paint alone!
On top of that, a neutral, modern finish helps buyers imagine their own décor, reducing perceived risk and time on market. But make sure you stick to broadly appealing tones such as greys, off-whites, soft taupes. Avoid very bold or highly personalized colors unless you’re in a niche market.
It’s also good to know that an average house can be painted in a few days if organized. This means that this type of update can speed up sales and make the home feel fresh and modern to buyers.
- Flooring upgrades (especially replacing old carpet or worn flooring)
Believe it or not, buyers often respond strongly to updated and durable floors. That’s why replacing dated carpets or mismatched floors with LVP or engineered hardwood increases appeal and can boost perceived value.
While replacing all flooring might take some time, focusing on the main living areas like the kitchen, living room, and entry gives incredible benefits.
Ideally, you want to go for a flooring product that’s neutral, durable, easy to install, and suitable for many demographics. Additionally, you should standardize finishes across spaces for coherence.
- Minor kitchen remodels (not full-blown luxury upgrades)
When it comes to adding value fast, few projects outperform a minor kitchen remodel. Property experts consistently rank it among the highest ROI renovations, and the good news is, it doesn’t require a massive budget or months of work.
A minor kitchen remodel involves refacing cabinets, new hardware, modern appliances, fresh countertops, and backsplash. A well-planned cosmetic refresh can dramatically improve perceived value while keeping costs and timelines under control.
The best part is that they are easy and fast to execute. And on top of that, they can yield up to 80% ROI.
- Bathroom updates (cosmetics and functional)
Bathrooms might be small, but when it comes to adding value quickly, they pack a punch. According to property experts, bathroom renovations consistently deliver between 60% and 90% ROI, depending on the scope and finish.
The best part? You don’t need a full remodel or luxury spa fit-out. A few targeted cosmetic and functional updates can make your bathroom look brand new, without the lengthy timeline or inflated costs.
Fix visible issues (mold, old plumbing, cracked tile) first. Then work on upgrades such as new vanities, fixtures, tile refresh, modern lighting, and even superficial improvements (resealing, new grout, repainting). Experts say you don’t always need full floor-to-ceiling luxury tiling.
- Curb appeal enhancements (exterior paint, doors, landscaping)
When flipping a property or preparing it for sale, first impressions can make or break the deal. Property experts agree that curb appeal is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to increase perceived value, and it often determines whether potential buyers even step inside.
Even modest exterior improvements such as a fresh front door, repainting, updated house numbers, pressure washing, plus minor landscaping yield strong returns. These tasks typically take less time and cost less than interior remodels, but contribute to faster sales and higher perceived value.
- Energy-efficient and functional performance upgrades
While perhaps slightly longer than purely cosmetic work, functional upgrades can be completed relatively quickly and add both value and appeal.
Installing modern windows/doors, insulation improvements, a smart thermostat, and upgraded HVAC if required, can yield 60% to 100% ROI.
Buyers increasingly value homes that look “done” and worry less about future costs or trouble.
Additionally, if you make these upgrades, be sure to advertise “new windows”, “low utility bills” as selling points.
Bottom Line
If you’re flipping a property and want to maximize value and speed, focus on measured, high-impact renovations. These types of projects are recommended by property-and-flip experts because they balance cost, timeline, and appeal.
By prioritizing those “fast wins”, you’ll reduce holding costs, attract buyers sooner, and increase the odds of a profitable exit.
