Denver Homeowners are Investing More in Renovation Projects

A report found by Instant Roofer reveals that Denver homeowners are the biggest spenders in renovation projects in the US. Residents and homeowners have been notably investing more than the national average,especially in room conversions or home additions. Sustainable Design Build has noticed this shift in homeowners sentiment in the recent year or so. Families and households are looking for more space and upgrading their home since moving and homebuying is not as attractive as it used to be in the past. Many homeowners find it more accessible to build up on their home or build out – by tapping into their home’s equity and more, families are still able to achieve luxury custom homes without uprooting and losing out on many qualities they love about their existing home.

• Room Conversions in Denver average $900/per room, compared to the national $200.
• The average renovation cost in Denver is $14,200 annually,  equating to 11.5% of household income.
• The remote work boom is a major driver, prompting residents to upgrade their living spaces, particularly for dedicated home offices.

Why are Denver Homeowners looking to renovate?

There are many reasons why a family or household would look to renovate their home instead of packing up everything and moving. Some like the area and community they are in, the members of their family have lasting connections, work opportunities are nearby, or the neighborhood fits their lifestyle.

In Denver, however, the motivation to renovate goes beyond convenience or sentiment. A recent report from Instant Roofer shows that Denver homeowners spend more than anyone else in the country on renovations, investing nearly 4.5 times the national average on certain projects like room conversions. This trend is largely driven by the rise in remote work, which has redefined how people use their homes. As more residents work from home full-time, the need for dedicated office space, functional layouts, and comfortable environments has grown substantially.

Beyond functionality, many Denverites are choosing to renovate simply to increase their enjoyment of their living spaces. According to a 2025 Thumbtack survey, 84% of homeowners prioritize projects that boost happiness and quality of life, rather than focusing purely on resale value. Popular upgrades include interior painting, new flooring, upgraded lighting, and custom features like walk-in closets, sunrooms, and home gyms.

In a competitive housing market, where moving may not guarantee a better or more affordable living situation, renovating becomes the smart and satisfying choice. It allows homeowners to tailor their space to their evolving needs without giving up the location they love. For Denver families, it’s not just about adding value—it’s about making home a place they truly enjoy living in.

Setting Realistic Expectations for Spending and Budget

While renovating can be an exciting and rewarding process, it’s important for homeowners to approach it with clear financial expectations. The average Denver household spends around $14,200 per year on renovations, which accounts for approximately 11.5% of their annual income, according to Instant Roofer. That figure can climb quickly depending on the scope of the project, the materials selected, and the quality of workmanship.

Small projects like painting, replacing fixtures, or refreshing flooring can usually be kept within a modest budget. However, room conversions, kitchen overhauls, and bathroom remodels tend to be more expensive—especially when plumbing, electrical, or structural changes are involved. Homeowners are advised to work with licensed, insured contractors, insist on written contracts, and factor in contingency funds for unexpected issues. It’s also wise to avoid overly trendy or highly customized features unless they serve a specific purpose or enhance long-term livability.

Sustainable Design Build is the perfect contractor type to handle Denver Custom Home Projects and Full-Scale renovation projects of that nature. With the design-build process acting as a streamlined service – homeowners are guaranteed the fastest and smoothest project management for their home project.

When Renovations Aren’t Enough: The Case for Home Additions

For homeowners who find that their renovation goals exceed what their current square footage can accommodate, home additions offer a compelling next step. Whether it’s a new primary suite, expanded kitchen, family room, or a dedicated home office or gym, additions create entirely new livable space rather than just improving existing rooms.

Home additions require a more substantial investment than basic renovations, but they also dramatically increase a home’s usability and market value. They are ideal for growing families, multigenerational households, or remote professionals who need long-term, purpose-built areas within their home.

At Sustainable Design Build, we help clients navigate this transition—from initial vision and budgeting to design, permitting, and construction—ensuring their addition complements their home both functionally and architecturally. If your current layout simply can’t meet your needs, a well-planned home addition may be the transformative solution you’ve been looking for.

Renovating with Purpose and Planning in Denver

As Denver continues to evolve with a rising remote workforce and a strong sense of community, more homeowners are choosing to renovate rather than relocate. Whether it’s creating a more functional workspace, updating tired finishes, or simply enhancing the joy of daily living, these projects are deeply personal and often driven by a desire for comfort and longevity—not just resale value.

However, with Denver residents spending significantly more than the national average on renovations, it’s essential to approach these improvements with realistic expectations about budget and scope. Understanding costs, working with qualified professionals, and planning thoughtfully can help prevent costly missteps and ensure a successful outcome.

For those whose needs go beyond cosmetic updates or space optimization, home additions offer a more impactful solution. By expanding your home’s footprint, you gain the flexibility to design for your current lifestyle while also investing in long-term value.

In the end, the best renovation or addition project is one that’s not only beautifully built, but also aligned with your goals, budget, and how you truly want to live in your home. At Sustainable Design Build, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.