What Increases Home Value the Most?

By Ken Poole, Engel & Völkers Barrie

If you’ve ever asked yourself what truly increases your home’s value — not just what looks nice online — you’re in good company. After years of helping families buy and sell across Barrie and Simcoe County, I’ve seen what really moves the needle when it comes to appraised and buyer-perceived value.

Let’s dive into the upgrades that consistently deliver the best return.

1. Kitchen and Bathroom Updates

These are the heartbeat of your home. A modern kitchen with updated counters, lighting, and stainless-steel appliances is often the single biggest factor in attracting strong offers.

Bathrooms follow closely behind. A refreshed vanity, new tile, or sleek glass shower door can make a space feel brand-new — and buyers notice. Choose timeless, neutral finishes that appeal to the widest audience.

2. Energy Efficiency and Smart Features

Today’s buyers care about comfort and cost savings. Double-pane windows, efficient HVAC systems, and added insulation all translate into measurable long-term value.

Smart thermostats, LED lighting, and EV chargers also attract eco-conscious buyers — a growing trend in the Barrie area.

3. Curb Appeal and First Impressions

Your home’s exterior is its first impression. Simple touches — a painted front door, new exterior lights, manicured landscaping — can add thousands in perceived value.

In Ontario’s four-season climate, maintaining your siding, driveway, and gutters signals “this home is cared for,” and that confidence leads to stronger offers.

4. Finished Basements and Functional Space

A finished basement creates valuable square footage without expanding your footprint. Whether it’s a rec room, office, or in-law suite, that flexibility gives you an edge over comparable listings.

In multi-generational markets like Simcoe County, separate entrances and secondary suites are especially sought-after.

5. Regular Maintenance and Professional Presentation

Never underestimate clean, well-maintained systems — roofs, furnaces, and plumbing are major buyer confidence factors.

Then comes presentation: professional staging and photography (included with all my listings) turn your home from “for sale” to “must-see.” It’s not about spending more — it’s about showcasing what you already have in its best light.

Final Thoughts

The upgrades that increase home value most aren’t always the flashiest. They’re the ones that build trust, highlight function, and make buyers feel at home.

If you’re planning to sell or wondering which improvements will deliver the highest ROI for your home, I’d be happy to walk through it with you.

📞 Ken Poole — Engel & Völkers Barrie -

Helping families find their next chapter and upgrade their life, one smart move at a time.