Not all renovations are created equal. If youāre investing in your homeāwhether to increase your comfort or prepare to sellāsome upgrades provide far more return on investment (ROI) than others. Thatās especially true in a market like Sault Ste. Marie, where homebuyers are looking for move-in-ready properties that can withstand our unique weather and lifestyle.
So which renovations deliver the most value here in the Soo? Letās dig into the top three smart investments.
1. š Bathroom Upgrades: Clean, Modern & Functional
Buyers and homeowners alike place huge importance on updated bathrooms. It’s one of the most used rooms in the houseāand one of the most scrutinized during resale.
What adds value:
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New vanities with soft-close drawers
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Modern tile work and waterproofing
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Energy-efficient fixtures and lighting
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Walk-in showers or upgraded bathtubs
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Adequate ventilation (especially important in Saultās cold winters)
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A well-renovated bathroom doesnāt just look goodāit feels fresh and clean, and offers functionality that buyers expect in todayās market.
Local Tip: In older Sault homes, bathrooms often lack proper insulation or vapor barriers. Renovating gives you the opportunity to fix that and make energy-efficiency upgrades.
2. š½ļø Kitchen Renovations: The Heart of the Home
The kitchen is the social hub of almost every household. Itās where meals are made, kids do homework, and friends gather during parties. Itās also one of the most important rooms when it comes to resale value.
What adds value:
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Upgraded countertops (quartz is a top choice)
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Energy-efficient appliances
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New cabinetry or refacing old cabinets
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Durable flooring (luxury vinyl tile or engineered hardwood)
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Improved lighting and layout
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You donāt always have to do a full gut-job. Even modest upgrades like new countertops or tile backsplash can dramatically change how the space feelsāand boost its appeal to future buyers.
Pro Tip: Make sure electrical and plumbing are up to code if you’re doing a full reno. In many older homes in the Soo, outdated wiring may need updating.
3. š” Basement Finishing: More Space, More Value
In Sault Ste. Marie, an unfinished basement is a missed opportunity. Whether youāre adding a guest suite, rental unit, or cozy family room, finishing your basement adds square footage without adding to your footprint.
What adds value:
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Proper insulation and vapor barriers
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Drywall and finished flooring
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Additional bathrooms or bedrooms
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Separate entrances (ideal for rental units)
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Storage solutions and utility upgrades
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Finished basements increase usable space while making your home more functional for family lifeāor more appealing as an income property. Just make sure you address any moisture issues before starting.
Local Tip: Sault homes often have moisture-prone basements. Always include proper waterproofing, weeping tiles, and sump systems where needed.
Renovate with Resale (and Real Life) in Mind
You donāt have to be selling your home to care about ROI. Value-boosting renovations also improve your daily quality of life and long-term comfort. A bathroom that doesnāt leak, a kitchen that makes cooking a pleasure, or a basement that finally feels livableāitās worth it.
And when it does come time to sell? Youāll be in a great position to stand out in the Sault real estate market.
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Not sure where to start? Weāll help you identify which renovations will give you the most bang for your buckāwhether you’re staying put or prepping to sell.
ā¤ Contact us today for a free consultation and start investing in your homeās value.