Blog
How to Get the Best Return on Your Renovation Investment
Renovation ROI Guide – How to Get the Best Return on Your Investment
At Big Dog Renovations, we believe a great renovation should look incredible, feel amazing, and make financial sense. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, bathroom, or basement, strategic design choices can help you recover much of your investment — sometimes even more — while creating a space you’ll love living in.
Average ROI by Project Type (Ontario Estimates)
Project Type | Typical ROI Range | High-Value Features |
Kitchen Renovation | 75–100% ROI | Modern layouts, custom cabinetry, efficient lighting, and durable finishes. |
Bathroom Renovation | 60–80% ROI | Walk-in showers, double vanities, premium tile, and updated fixtures. |
Basement Renovation | 50–70% ROI | Added living space, income suite potential, and improved insulation or comfort. |
*ROI ranges are based on Canadian and Ontario industry data from sources including RE/MAX, HomeStars, Morningstar, and Canadian Real Estate Magazine. Actual results vary depending on project scope, finish quality, and market conditions.*
Top ROI Boosters
• Optimize layout to maximize usable space and natural light.
• Upgrade energy efficiency — windows, insulation, HVAC zoning.
• Add modern lighting, under-cabinet LEDs, and smart switches.
• Choose durable, timeless materials (quartz, porcelain tile, LVP flooring).
• Include functional storage — pantries, niches, mudrooms, built-ins.
• Invest in professional design for better flow and resale appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Over-customizing — unique finishes can limit resale appeal.
• Using cheap materials that won’t hold up long-term.
• Skipping permits or professional drawings — costly to fix later.
• Neglecting lighting and electrical planning.
• Rushing selections without a cohesive design plan.
💡 **Big Dog Tip:** ROI isn’t just resale — it’s comfort, energy efficiency, and design that stand the test of time.
Example: Local ROI Snapshot
In Toronto’s High Park area, a 2024 kitchen remodel that included new cabinetry, quartz countertops, and layout optimization led to an estimated increase of 15-20% in resale value, with project costs recovered at roughly 85–90% ROI. Similarly, finished basements in the GTA continue to offer strong returns — especially when designed as legal secondary suites — often recouping 60–70% of the initial investment while providing rental income potential.
Disclaimer:
These figures are for informational purposes only. ROI will vary based on individual project scope, location, market conditions, material costs, and workmanship quality. Big Dog Renovations does not guarantee financial returns on any renovation investment. Figures are drawn from reputable Canadian sources listed below.
Supporting Sources & Reports
• HomeStars – Kitchen ROI (Canada) – https://www.homestars.com/kitchen/price-guides/kitchen-cost
• Morningstar – Is a Kitchen Reno Still Worth it in Canada? – https://global.morningstar.com/en-ca/personal-finance/is-a-kitchen-reno-still-worth-it-in-canada
• RE/MAX Canada – Best Home Renovations for the Biggest ROI – https://blog.remax.ca/best-home-renovations-biggest-roi/
• NerdWallet Canada – Home Renovations with the Highest ROI – https://www.nerdwallet.com/ca/mortgages/home-renovations-worth-the-investment
• Sutton Group Admiral – Toronto Home Renovation Costs & Returns – https://www.suttongroupadmiral.com/toronto-home-renovations-costs-returns
• HomeStars – High-ROI Home Improvements – https://www.homestars.com/blog/home-improvement-projects-highest-roi
Ready to plan your renovation the smart way? Schedule a **Design & ROI Review Call** with our team. We’ll walk through your goals and outline how to maximize your investment without sacrificing style or quality.
