When planning a home remodeling project in the Phoenix area, it helps to determine your “must-haves” from your “nice-to-haves.” Thoughtfully considering current home remodeling trends in Phoenix and Scottsdale can make it easier to prioritize where to invest. Because your home is one of your largest investments, well-planned updates can increase both your day-to-day enjoyment and increase your home’s appraisal. Today’s buyers in the greater Phoenix metro are looking for move-in-ready homes, and understanding what other homeowners want can help you prioritize your remodeling budget for a greater market value. The 2025 U.S. Houzz & Home Study offers helpful insights into the features many homeowners now consider standard in an updated home.
Most remodeling projects included improvements to multiple areas of the home. Sixty‑nine percent involved interior room renovations, while 63% of those included upgrades to home systems such as plumbing, electrical, home automation, and HVAC. The top four system improvements and their median cost were: plumbing ($1,500), electrical ($2,000), home automation ($500), and HVAC ($5,500). Ten percent of remodeling projects included an addition to the home, a trend we also see among Phoenix‑area homeowners who want more flexible living space without moving.
Exterior improvements were made 58% of the time. Fifty‑three percent of those included these top five exterior upgrades and their median cost were: roofing ($13,000), windows and skylights ($7,000), exterior painting ($2,000), gutters ($1,700), and exterior doors ($2,000). In the Phoenix desert climate, these types of exterior upgrades can also support energy efficiency, comfort, and curb appeal, the features that today’s buyers and appraisers pay close attention to. In addition, 53% of homeowners invested in outdoor living upgrades such as lighting, patios, and fencing, often creating covered patios and outdoor entertaining spaces that allow them to enjoy more Arizona evenings.
Guest bathroom remodels in this past year have become just as popular as kitchen remodels, with each included in 26% of renovation projects. Primary bathroom remodels accounted for 22% of projects. Since kitchens and primary bathrooms have historically been the two most popular remodeling spaces, the slightly lower percentage for primary bathrooms may indicate that many had already been updated in previous years or are planned for a future phase of remodeling. In the Phoenix market, homeowners are also using guest bathroom remodels and powder room updates to add personality, create a “wow” moment for visitors, and test new finishes or colors.
As in previous Houzz national surveys, the vast majority of homeowners (90%) hired professionals to complete their renovations, with general contractors being the most commonly selected experts. Working with an experienced design‑build remodeling firm in Phoenix or Scottsdale can help you create a home that better fits your lifestyle while incorporating timeless design features that will remain attractive to future buyers. A design‑build team can also guide you on which upgrades are most appropriate for homes in the Valley’s climate such as energy‑efficient windows and doors, and enhanced insulation, as well as universal design features for aging in place to create that forever home. A well‑planned remodel not only enhances everyday living, but it can also strengthen your home’s long‑term value in today’s competitive local real estate market.
If you’re planning a remodel in the Phoenix area, our team would be happy to talk through your ideas and help you prioritize the projects that matter most. Contact us today to get started.
Happy Home Remodeling!
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