When you are buying a home in Utah, it is easy to focus on the excitement of finding the perfect kitchen, the right neighborhood, or that amazing mountain view. But one of the most important questions to ask yourself is this, what will this home be worth when you sell it? Resale value is a crucial part of every smart real estate decision. Whether you plan to stay for five years or twenty, understanding how to evaluate a home’s potential for appreciation can protect your investment and help you make the most of your purchase. Let’s take a look at the most important questions to ask before you buy, so you can choose a home that grows in value over time.
1. How Desirable Is the Location
Location is one of the biggest factors in determining resale value. Homes in desirable areas tend to appreciate faster and sell more easily. In Utah, that often means neighborhoods with strong schools, safe communities, nearby amenities, and convenient access to major highways or transit. When evaluating a home, ask yourself: how close is it to employment centers, grocery stores, parks, and schools; is the area growing or declining in popularity; are there new developments or major road projects planned nearby. For an in-depth look at how neighborhood choice impacts value, see my article on How to Choose the Right Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle.
2. What Is the Condition and Age of the Home
A home’s physical condition has a direct impact on its value today and in the future. Well-maintained homes usually retain their worth better and sell more quickly. Ask these key questions: how old is the roof, HVAC system, and water heater; has the plumbing or electrical been updated; are there signs of deferred maintenance, like peeling paint or outdated finishes. If you’re not sure what to look for, my guide on Utah Home Inspections: What Buyers Need to Know can help you identify red flags before you buy.
3. How Does the Home Compare to Others in the Area
Comparing a home to similar properties nearby — often called “comps” — is one of the best ways to estimate its resale potential. Ask your agent to show you recent sales of comparable homes within a half-mile radius. Look for patterns in price per square foot, condition, and upgrades. If a home is significantly above or below the neighborhood average, understand why. You can also explore my Market Page for detailed Utah market data to see how prices are trending across different cities and counties.
4. Are There HOA or Community Restrictions
If the property is part of an HOA, review its rules and fees carefully. High monthly HOA fees or restrictive policies can affect resale value and buyer interest. For example, if the HOA limits rentals, it could reduce the pool of future buyers who might want to use the property as an investment. You can learn more about this in my article Utah HOAs and CC&Rs Explained.
5. What Renovations Have Been Done (and When)
Not all upgrades are created equal. Kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring updates usually provide the highest return on investment. Other highly visible projects may not recoup as much of their cost. According to the 2025 NAR Remodeling Impact report, certain projects consistently recover value — for instance, new steel front doors often result in nearly full cost recovery. Ask for a list of all improvements the seller has made, along with permits if applicable. Pay attention to quality — cheap or DIY projects can create future repair costs that affect value.
6. How Does the Floor Plan Affect Value
Open floor plans, large kitchens, and primary suites on the main level are highly sought after in Utah. Outdated or awkward layouts can hurt resale value even if the home looks beautiful at first glance. If you are considering a condo or townhome, layout and shared walls matter even more. You can compare property types in my article Buying a Condo vs Townhome vs Single-Family in Utah.
7. What Are the Local Market Trends
Real estate is hyperlocal, and Utah’s market can vary dramatically from one city to the next. Understanding trends in supply, demand, and pricing helps you anticipate how your property might appreciate. Review data on median home prices, inventory levels, and average days on market. My Utah Market Page provides these insights, updated monthly, to help you make informed decisions.
8. Are There Future Developments Nearby
Upcoming construction can impact your property’s value — sometimes positively, sometimes negatively. New schools, shopping centers, or tech campuses can drive demand, while industrial projects or new highways might have the opposite effect. Check city planning websites or Utah.gov development pages to see what is on the horizon. Your agent can also help you research proposed zoning changes.
Final Thought
Thinking about resale value before you buy doesn’t mean you are planning to sell soon, it means you are protecting your future investment. In Utah’s dynamic market, a little foresight today can lead to major gains down the road. When you understand how location, condition, and market trends work together, you can buy confidently — knowing your home will hold its value and likely grow with time. If you are exploring homes across Salt Lake County or nearby cities, I would love to help you evaluate properties with strong resale potential. You can also use my Home Valuation Tool to see what homes in your area are currently worth.
