2026 Remodeling Trends

Curb Appeal Projects With the Best Return

Exterior updates are some of the best-returning projects in the Atlanta market. A new garage door, stone veneer, entry door or siding changes how a home looks from the street and often recoups more than it costs.

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Example design inspiration: renovated home exterior at dusk — Example design inspiration, not a completed Milton Home Renovations project.

Step 1Discovery & Consultation
Step 2Design & Scope
Step 3Construction
Step 4Punch List & Walkthrough

Exterior projects lead resale returns in Atlanta

In the 2025 Cost vs Value report for Atlanta, five exterior and entry projects recouped more than their cost at resale. These are smaller projects than kitchens or additions, which is why they deliver such high percentage returns.

Top-returning exterior projects, Atlanta
Project	Job cost	Resale value	Cost recouped
Garage door replacement	$4,843	$10,533	217.5%
Manufactured stone veneer	$11,004	$19,864	180.5%
Entry door replacement (steel)	$2,425	$3,811	157.2%
Siding replacement (fiber cement)	$21,316	$22,878	107.3%
Siding replacement (vinyl)	$17,308	$13,881	80.2%
Window replacement (vinyl)	$21,631	$15,324	70.8%
Grand entrance (fiberglass)	$11,849	$8,094	68.3%

Source: Remodeling magazine Cost vs Value 2025, Atlanta, GA (jlconline.com). Regional averages, not a Milton Home Renovations quote.

How exterior upgrades work together

Garage door

On many Milton homes, the garage door faces the street and takes up a large part of the front elevation. A carriage-style or insulated door with windows changes the look of the house for a relatively small cost.

Stone veneer

Manufactured stone along the foundation, columns or entry adds texture and weight to the facade. Proper flashing and a drainage plane behind it are essential.

Entry door and porch

A new entry door, updated lighting, house numbers and a refreshed porch ceiling create a strong first impression.

Siding and trim

Fiber cement siding resists rot, insects and fire and holds paint well. It is a common upgrade for homes with aging wood or hardboard siding.

Plan exterior work

Check HOA guidelines for colors and materials.
Inspect sheathing and flashing when siding comes off.
Coordinate gutters, trim and paint in the same project.
Schedule exterior work for dry weather.

Where to start on a budget

If you are planning to sell within a few years, start with the projects that return the most: the garage door and the entry door. If you plan to stay, siding and windows protect the house and improve comfort as well as appearance. Painting trim and shutters, updating exterior lighting and cleaning up landscaping beds are small additions that make the larger projects look complete. Ask for each item to be priced separately so you can choose the order.