When it comes to home improvement, most Sydney homeowners ask one important question:
“Which renovation adds the most value — the kitchen, the bathroom, or the laundry?”

It’s a valid concern. Renovations are a big investment, and knowing where to focus your time and budget can make a huge difference — not only in your everyday comfort but also in the resale value of your home.

If you’re renovating to sell or simply future-proofing your property, this guide is for you. We’ll break down which areas truly add the most value, based on current real estate trends in Sydney, buyer behavior, and renovation ROI.

Let’s dive in.

Why Renovations Are Booming in Sydney

With Sydney property prices still among the highest in the country, homeowners are opting to renovate rather than relocate. Whether it’s kitchen makeovers, bathroom waterproofing upgrades, or laundry room overhauls, renovations are no longer just cosmetic — they’re strategic.

What’s changed?

• Remote work has reshaped how people use their homes.
• Buyers expect modern amenities, even in older suburbs like Castle Hill, Lane Cove, and Coogee.
• Renovated homes sell faster and often above the suburb median.

Upgrade your Sydney bathroom with stylish renovations that boost comfort, functionality, and property value in Sydney.

But which renovation delivers the highest return?

Kitchen Renovation — The Heart (and Hero) of the Home

Kitchen Renovations Add the Most Tangible Value

Kitchen renovations in Sydney typically offer the highest return on investment, with up to 80-100% ROI when done well. It’s no surprise — the kitchen is the emotional and functional center of the home. Buyers want a kitchen that’s:

• Modern and open-plan
• Fitted with quality appliances
• Optimized for storage and workflow
• Bright, clean, and easy to maintain

In suburbs like Hills District, Ryde, and Northern Beaches, modern kitchens with island benches, stone bench tops, and integrated appliances consistently increase a property’s value.

PRO TIP: Even minor updates (like resurfacing cabinets or upgrading splash backs) can yield significant returns if your budget is tight.

If you’re aiming to increase resale value, our modern kitchen renovations in Sydney combine functionality and design to leave a lasting impression on buyers.

Bathroom Renovation — Small Space, Big Impact

Bathrooms Can Make or Break the Sale

A poorly designed or outdated bathroom can be an instant dealbreaker — especially in Sydney’s competitive property market. Bathroom renovations can deliver 70-90% ROI, depending on scope and style.

Today’s buyers are looking for:

• Waterproof and mold-free wet areas
• Sleek vanities and frameless showers
• Double sinks for couples
• Smart lighting and energy-efficient features

Suburbs like Randwick, Willoughby, and Newtown have older homes with tired bathrooms — making updates here a great investment.

DID YOU KNOW? Even in apartment units, a freshly renovated bathroom can increase rental yield significantly.

Turn your Sydney home office into a productive, ergonomic, and stress-free workspace.

Laundry Renovation — The Underrated Value Booster

Don’t Underestimate the Laundry Room

While not as glamorous as kitchens or bathrooms, laundry renovations in Sydney are growing in popularity — especially in small homes and inner-city terraces.

• A well-renovated laundry can:
• Improve workflow and storage
• Free up space in other parts of the house
• Add perceived value through functionality

ROI ranges between 50-70%, and higher if it’s a combined laundry and bathroom renovation, which is trending heavily in Sydney’s older suburbs.

FACT: Real estate agents report that integrated laundry-bathroom spaces in homes in Surry Hills, Marrickville, and Glebe are attracting premium offers.

Thinking of upgrading your laundry? See how much it could cost in different parts of Sydney in our latest breakdown — check out laundry renovation costs suburb by suburb.

Renovation ROI — What the Sydney Market Says

According to Domain’s property insights and ABS building data: