Key Details:
- Zillow and Thumbtack reveal the top no-demo renovation projects of 2024 that boost homebuyer interest, offering affordable upgrades under $5,000 to increase home saves and shares on Zillow.
- The top 10 list indicates which budget-friendly upgrades have become more popular with homebuyers compared to a year ago.
If you work with homeowners, this is information worth passing on—especially with those looking to sell in the next 12 months who want to know how to make their home stand out and get more attention from buyers as inventory levels continue to rise.
A new Zillow analysis with Thumbtack reveals the top 10 no-demolition renovation projects for 2024.
According to Thumbtack data, all 10 of these projects cost less than $5,000 on average nationwide, which is good news for anyone grappling with record-high homeownership costs. No need to break down any walls or replace pipes with any of these budget-friendly upgrades.
Fortunately, we make it easier than ever to share this type of information with consumers in your market with fully customizable templates like this, delivered weekly to BAMx members:
Data for this year’s list is based on an average nationwide cost analysis for millions of renovation projects along with Zillow data on home features that increase shares and saves from home shoppers on the Zillow platform.
Those saves and shares are a strong indicator of buyer interest; the more saves and shares a home gets, the more likely it is to get multiple buyer offers and to sell above the asking price.
The top 10 list also reveals how some of these projects have gained popularity among homeowners on Thumbtack compared to a year ago.
Top 10 No-Demo Renovations to Amp Up Buyer Interest
#1: Window Box
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with a window box get 48% more saves and 52% more shares per day (compared to similar homes without) on Zillow.
Cost:
- Professional installation: $100–$150.
- Materials: $15–$900.
#2: Open Shelving
Trend: Closet system and shelving installations increased by 31.5% year over year.
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with open shelving receive 37% more saves and 45% more shares per day on Zillow.
Cost of Professional installation: $275 (excluding shelves).
#3: Painted Brick
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with painted brick receive 31% more saves and 39% more shares per day on Zillow.
Cost:
- Per square foot: $1.85–$3.03
- Total job: $4,600–$7,600
#4: Vintage Touches and Finishes
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with vintage features receive 28% more saves and 31% more shares per day on Zillow.
Cost:
- Vintage crown molding (example): $2–$50 per linear foot.
#5: Outdoor TV
Trend: Outdoor TV installations increased by 12.7% year over year.
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with an outdoor TV receive 28% more saves and 26% more shares per day on Zillow.
Average national cost: $175–$300.
#6: Picket Fence
Survey: 39% of homeowners desire a fenced-in space for pets.
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with a picket fence receive 27% more saves and 31% more shares per day on Zillow.
Cost of Installation: $7–$45 per linear foot.
#7: Pergola
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with a pergola receive 20% more saves and 24% more shares per day on Zillow.
Average national cost: $3,600 for a 10-by-10-foot pergola.
#8: Fire Pit
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with a fire pit receive 19% more saves and 23% more shares per day on Zillow.
Cost: A couple hundred dollars, depending on the kit.
#9: Outdoor Sound System
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with an outdoor sound system receive 18% more saves and 19% more shares per day on Zillow.
Cost: $500–$2,000.
Recommendation: Bundle with outdoor TV installation for cost efficiency.
#10: Smart Lighting
Trend: Smart-home installations increased by 21.8% year over year.
Impact on Buyer Interest: Homes with smart lighting receive 18% more saves and 23% more shares per day on Zillow.
Average national cost: $308 for installation.
This data can reassure homeowners that they don’t need to undergo a massive renovation to make a big impact on a home and increase buyer appeal. Whether it’s a DIY project or pro-worthy, these small changes can make a significant transformation.
Read the full press release for more information, including methodology.
