Why Remodeling Still Pays: What Educated Homeowners Already Know

Remodeling Is About More Than Looks—It’s About Long-Term Value

If you own a second home along the coast of Maine—whether in Wells, Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, or York—you already know how important it is to protect and enhance your investment. But beyond the financials, remodeling is often about something more personal: creating a home that works for your lifestyle and brings lasting satisfaction.

At Property Essentials, we’ve worked with dozens of homeowners just like you—calculated, thoughtful, and strategic. That’s why we’re sharing key insights from the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report by the National Association of REALTORS®, paired with our own experience in high-end remodeling, to show you why the right upgrades still deliver exceptional value.

1. It’s Not Just ROI—It’s Return on Lifestyle

Many homeowners remodel not just to increase resale value, but to improve the day-to-day experience of their home. In fact, the report found that:

• 27% remodeled to upgrade worn-out materials

• 18% simply wanted a change

Our take: Whether it’s replacing dated cabinets in your coastal kitchen or designing a spa-worthy master bath, these improvements often enhance how you feel in your home. That’s ROI in a different sense—the kind that pays you back in joy, comfort, and usability.

2. The "Joy Score" Is a Real Thing—And It’s High

The report used a scale of 1 to 10 to gauge homeowner satisfaction post-project. Kitchen upgrades and new primary suites scored the highest, averaging an impressive Joy Score of 9+.

We’ve seen this firsthand: when a client walks into their completed remodel and says, "I actually enjoy being here now," we know we’ve done our job.

Our insight: If you split time between two homes, the space you return to should feel like a retreat, not a to-do list. Remodeling turns your Maine property into more than just a getaway—it becomes a sanctuary.

3. Kitchen and Bath Remodels Still Drive Long-Term Value

According to REALTORS® surveyed in the report:

• Kitchen remodels and bathroom upgrades remain the most recommended projects for adding resale value.

Why? Because buyers and appraisers alike recognize the impact of high-functioning, visually stunning kitchens and baths. These spaces define the tone of the entire home.

Smart remodeling isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about thoughtful planning, timeless design, and quality materials. We help you navigate that process, so your investment reflects both personal enjoyment and future value.

4. Don’t Remodel Just for Resale—Do It for You

Resale is important, but it’s not everything. Many of our clients tell us they wish they’d renovated sooner—not because they sold for more, but because they finally enjoyed the space how they always imagined it.

You don’t have to wait for a reason to improve your home. Your time and enjoyment now are reason enough.

Final Thought: A Smart Remodel Is Never a Waste

In tight-knit, design-savvy communities like York and Kennebunkport, a well-done remodel is always noticed. Not just by guests or future buyers—but by you, every day you walk into your kitchen or step into your bathroom.

If you’re considering a remodel, let’s talk about how we can maximize the joy, utility, and long-term value of your coastal property.

Contact Property Essentials LLC today to begin the conversation—or try our online kitchen and bathroom estimator to start shaping your vision.

Inspired by data from the 2025 NAR Remodeling Impact Report

Property Essentials proudly serves homeowners across Southern Maine’s coastal communities, including Wells, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, York, and Cape Neddick. We specialize in high-end kitchen remodels, luxury bathroom renovations, custom builds, and large-scale additions designed to enhance both lifestyle and long-term value. If you’re searching for a trusted coastal Maine contractor with a reputation for craftsmanship, design expertise, and professionalism, our team is here to guide your project from concept to completion.