10 Most Popular Home Renovations Since the Start of the Pandemic

February 7, 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic caused people to spend more time at home for work and entertainment. This shifted the priorities for home renovations to make life a bit easier and more comfortable.

Here are a few popular post-pandemic remodeling projects that resulted from this major change in our culture.

1. Renovating the Bathroom

Your bathroom is a high-traffic area, so it should be functional. Homeowners considered improvements they could make during the pandemic. These changes usually involved new fixtures, such as toilets or bathtubs. Other simple upgrades included painting or tiling the shower.

In addition, some people revamped old lighting or cabinetry. Depending on the scale of the project, renovations can cost between $5,500 and $15,000, but creating a functional and relaxing space is worth it. Plus, you can get an ROI of 50% with a bathroom remodel.

2. Remodeling Your Kitchen

A functional kitchen is essential as people spend more time inside. Plus, eating at home saves money and protects you from COVID-19. People working from home tend to spend more time in the kitchen.

Many people upgrade to energy-efficient appliances during the renovation process. For example, a hood range helps provide proper ventilation. It also reduces excess heat and reduces mold buildup. Other updates include repainting or adding new flooring and countertops. All these projects can end up costing around $12,567, but kitchen remodels have a high ROI of 81.1%.

3. Adding an Office Space

About 45% of people are now working remotely due to the pandemic. Many people turned spare bedrooms or unfinished basements into home offices. Designated kitchen areas worked well for those with limited room.

Having a defined office allows you to be more productive. Plus, then you don’t have to find an outside place to work. Co-working spaces are one option but can be costly. Enhance your office space by adding a comfortable chair and proper lighting. Placing your desk by a window can improve your mood. In addition, decorate with plants and artwork to make the room feel cozier.

A reliable internet connection and fast charging devices are essential. Even if you return to work, having an office increases your home’s value.

4. Finishing a Basement

A finished basement gives you more room to relax and entertain. Kids can play games downstairs or parents can use the space to unwind at night. This is also the perfect spot to host a family movie night.

One of the first steps in finishing a basement is upgrading the plumbing and electrical. Also, adding insulation is essential to keep the space warm. Be sure to check for any signs of moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth if not taken care of.

Add some character after the structural elements are put into place. You can enhance the room with a movie projector, bar or arcade games. A larger area can double as a spare bedroom.

5. Building a Guest House

About 2.6 million kids moved back with their parents during the pandemic. Accessory dwelling units became popular to create more space for everyone. These are separate residences located on the same lot and can either be detached or attached to the primary house. These also allow for aging family members to live close by.

Plus, you can rent the house out as a source of passive income. Be sure to look up your local zoning laws and obtain a permit before building. Also, have your finances in order since additions can be costly. The average price is around $30,000.

6. Creating a Home Gym

Crowded gyms can spread COVID-19, so some people are opting for a more personal experience. At-home gyms also allow for more privacy and convenience, making it easy for people to squeeze in a quick workout during their lunch break. Hang mirrors and let in plenty of natural light when designing your workout space. Also, upgrade with technology, such as a Peloton Bike.

7. Enhancing the Exterior

People started paying more attention to their properties’ exterior during the pandemic, which is why siding improvement projects are becoming popular. Adding stone veneer provides a beautiful appearance and a good return on investment. A fresh coat of paint or new windows can also enhance your exterior. In addition, upgrade to a steel door for better durability and security.

Landscaping is another area to focus on. Adding a garden creates a stunning focal point. Plus, it provides fresh vegetables for the whole family. Other ideas include having a stone pathway or picket fence.

8. Incorporating a Deck

Patios give people a safe place to relax outside, especially as people continue to work and socialize at home. A deck is perfect for family gatherings.

Add a fireplace, comfortable seating and lights to enhance your deck. Splurge in an outdoor kitchen if you love to cook. Keep in mind you’ll need a permit for construction.

Another factor to consider is this project takes time and money. It takes about one to three weeks to build and costs around $7,000.

9. Painting the Interior

Are you tired of staring at the same old walls? Adding a fresh coat of paint can brighten up a space. Plus, this is a cost-effective strategy allowing you to showcase your personality. Go for natural colors or earthy tones for a calming atmosphere. If you want to create a sense of energy, warmer colors, such as reds, may do the trick.

Another option is to make an accent wall. This is when you paint one wall a different hue than the rest. It can help create a unique focal point or highlight a certain feature. Make sure to dress up your walls with artwork and photos.

10. Installing Smart Devices

Smart devices make processes much more efficient. For example, smart speakers allow you to look up recipes or set reminders. Other devices help automate home features, such as lighting and temperature. Plus, you can conveniently control these devices through a mobile app.

Another benefit of smart devices is the security features. Smart cameras and video doorbells make it easier to monitor your house from anywhere.

Common Home Remodels Post-Pandemic

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on many areas of our lives. The housing market was no different. People started focusing on home improvement projects as prices for new houses rose, which increased updates of high-traffic areas and outdoor spaces. Consider some of these popular renovations if you’re looking to remodel.


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