Top Renovation Trends Adding Value to Southern California Homes

Home renovation.

Thanks to HGTV and any number of home improvement blogs, it is a topic that has captured homeowners’ imaginations over the past couple of decades. 

With that said, while there are countless renovations that can satisfy the need to be a “doer,” the list of projects that add value to a property is a bit more exclusive.

For more in this regard, keep reading as we explore some of the top renovation trends adding value to Southern California homes!

Eco-Conscious Upgrades

California is one of the most eco-conscious states in the country. Just look at the solar mandate for all new construction homes as proof.

As such, any eco-friendly features will be looked at favorably by the market. Low-E windows allow the transmission of natural light while blocking thermal radiation for reduced reliance on A/C. Stunning recycled glass countertops for kitchens are fabricated from post-consumer and post-industrial glass. Held in place with cement or a high-quality resin, their durable, nonporous construction offers the ultimate in sustainably-sourced, low-maintenance surfaces. Smart home features, such as app-controlled appliances and voice-controlled thermostats, help optimize energy disbursement and minimize waste. 

Garage Door Replacement

As surprising as it may seem, a garage door replacement is at the top of the list of value-adding renovations. According to data compiled by the Journal of Light Construction, a garage door replacement in the Pacific Coast region returned a whopping 193% ROI in 2024. 

There are many reasons for this. A garage door replacement can be completed in as little as half a day with professional installation, making it one of the least labor-intensive renovations on the market. A new garage door can enhance the security of the home. It improves energy efficiency. Most noticeably, it offers a stunning focal point on the home’s facade that arrests the attention of onlookers. 

Permeable Gravel Driveways

Concrete driveways are classy enough when new. They are also quite cookie-cutter. This is not a moniker ever associated with high-value homes.

Therefore, some properties are opting for the aesthetic versatility of permeable gravel driveways. The system uses a series of substrate permeable pavers to hold surface aggregates in place. This can range from crushed stone to pea gravel--whatever infill you prefer for the ideal curb appeal. On top of the aesthetic benefits, permeable gravel driveways offer elite drainage. This allows for more effective rainwater harvesting in arid Southern California. It can also reduce the risk of water contamination common to “concrete jungles.”

Next-Level Accessibility Features

Most households are multi-income these days. It’s just a fact of life to combat the rising cost of living. 

This trend has sparked interest in multi-generational living arrangements. Whether its young urban professionals living with empty-nesters or grandparents moving in to help with childcare needs for their young families, we are increasingly seeing everyone from infants to elderly sharing a single roof.

As such, any features that can promote safety and accessibility for multi-generational households will really stand out. Solid hardwood flooring with a matte finish not only promotes maneuverability for those with medical devices, but it adds traction to protect against falls. A lighted handrail system that uses innovative LED modules keeps staircases and lofts illuminated at all hours of the day. Open floor plans offer clear pathways and greater customizability of space to help satisfy emergent spatial needs.

Fiber Cement Siding

Southern California wildfires. 

The real and perceived threat make any fire-mitigating features a major value-add in SoCal homes.

One of the most trending renovations along these lines lies in fiber cement siding. Fabricated from a mixture of sand, water, Portland cement, and cellulose fibers, it offers the highest fire resistance on the market. Moreover, it can be manufactured in any number of attractive designs (including wood-look) to speak to the exterior sensibilities of any homeowner for optimal curb appeal.

Exterior Privacy

Functional exterior space is a major vibe in modern homes. People living remote lifestyles need a chance to step outside and enjoy an escape from their four walls. It is an even greater priority in the Southern California market, where the year-round warm weather is stuff dreams are made of.

However, one often-overlooked challenge of creating functional exterior space is privacy. No matter how well it is laid out, it is hard to enjoy time outdoors when it feels like everyone in the neighborhood is peeping in on you. 

There are a few tricks to ameliorate this situation. Trees and shrubbery can block neighbors’ views while adding natural charm to your exterior. Incorporating vinyl fence gates into the fencing system can bolster security and create a more robust barrier than old-fashioned chainlink options. Decorative screen panels can offer a visual shield while providing some architectural intrigue to add definition to exterior areas. 

Choose the Right Renovations That Add Value in Southern California

To add value in the Southern California market, a renovation must be as eco-conscious and aesthetically stunning as it is functional. From recycled glass countertops to vinyl gates, consider any of the renovation ideas listed above for the most value-adding efforts. For more of the latest real estate trends in Southern California, explore the content at Jones Realty Group for the leading insights in the market!

Author Bio:

Lisa Thompkins is a freelance writer living in Dallas, Texas. She works closely in the Home Improvement and Restoration fields and has a background in Real Estate. When not writing, Lisa enjoys spending her time traveling and seeing the world. Lisa’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.