Winter isn’t the hottest season—not just temperature-wise but also when it comes to real estate. So, it’s a great time to add features to a home that can increase its value and appeal.
In colder months, these often pertain to keeping the house warm. Although there are evergreen enhancements that buyers also like to see year-round. Curious how to get the best return on your investment—whether you’re selling now or down the road?
Here, real estate experts share five features that instantly boost a home’s value in winter.
Fireplaces
Fireplaces always come up higher on buyers’ wish lists during the chillier season, according to real estate advisor Nikki Beauchamp.
“Insofar as fireplaces are concerned, it is important to understand how they have been maintained—and if you reside in an apartment building, what or how overall maintenance is handled and who is responsible,” Beauchamp says.
Plus, people like to experience a home more slowly and intentionally come winter.
“Spaces that are open yet clearly defined feel more comfortable and usable,” says Libby McKinney Tritschler, luxury properties specialist at William Raveis. “A fireplace acts as a visual and emotional anchor, giving rooms purpose and warmth.”
Storm Windows
On a more practical note, proper insulation is key in regions where temperatures significantly drop. So, it’s important to take a look at the bones of a home—especially the windows.
“Adding new-style storm windows for homes located in colder climates helps save on fuel costs when windows are original,” says Jerry O’Reilly, real estate investor at Cash Home Buyers Crew.
These windows involve installing new, energy-efficient panes outside of the home’s existing windows. This ends up getting rid of chilly drafts— saving buyers from having to turn on the heating.
O’Reilly notes that the overall price can range from $100 to $400 per window.
Refreshed Doors
Similarly, revamped doors can offer better insulation for homes. Plus, they boast aesthetic benefits.
“This modification improves the overall curb appeal when [existing] doors are worn and aren’t energy efficient,” says O’Reilly. “A new front door can have a dramatic impact on the home’s value for resale.”
Still, you don’t have to completely replace your door to take on a refresh.
“If the original doors are quality and in good condition, painting, re-staining, and upgrading the weather stripping and seals can have a significant impact,” O’Reilly notes.
While new doors can cost anywhere from several hundred to thousands of dollars, staining, painting, and weather stripping can be done for under $150, according to O’Reilly.
Vestibules and Mudrooms
With all the mud, coats, and boots tracking in and out of homes in winter, vestibules and mudrooms become coveted rooms for buyers.
“Winter highlights the importance of transition spaces between outdoors and indoors,” says Libby McKinney Tritschler, real estate agent and Luxury Properties Specialist at William Raveis. “A vestibule and or mudroom prevents cold air, moisture, and clutter from entering living areas, which will improve the daily functionality while protecting finishes within the home.”
Attached Garage
A home’s exterior shouldn’t solely be focused on curb appeal.
“It’s about how a home feels the moment you arrive,” says McKinney Tritschler. “An attached garage adds immediate value by offering warmth, convenience, and protection from the elements. Being able to step directly into the home without braving snow, wind, or rain changes the daily experience and signals thoughtful, year-round livability.”