Do Custom Built-Ins Add Value? A Room-by-Room ROI Breakdown for Raleigh Homeowners
- Corrine Lombardo
- Jun 15
- 4 min read
Thinking about investing in custom built-ins for your home? From timeless bookshelves to hardworking mudrooms, built-ins can elevate both your everyday life and your home’s resale value.
But how much do they really pay off when it’s time to sell? And what types of built-ins give you the most return on investment (ROI) here in Raleigh, NC?
We’re breaking it down by project type — so you can make smart decisions based on function, style, and value.
Table of Contents
Built-In Bookcases & Shelving
Cost range: $2,000 – $14,000
Typical ROI: 60–80%
Buyer Demand in Raleigh: Moderate to high (especially when flanking fireplaces or in home offices)
Custom bookshelves add charm, character, and functionality to a space — especially when sized to fit. In Raleigh, buyers love built-in shelving in living rooms, home offices, and reading nooks. While a couple of basic shelves won’t drastically increase your sale price, well-crafted built-ins made of hardwood or painted to match your trim can absolutely improve marketability and offer solid ROI.
We design and build fully custom shelving and bookcases to match your home’s style. Ask us about inset options or hidden storage.
Mudrooms & Drop Zones
Cost range: $3,000 – $10,000+
Typical ROI: ~50%
Buyer Demand in Raleigh: High — especially for families and pet owners
A functional mudroom is one of the most in-demand features for Raleigh buyers. Whether it’s a bench and cubbies near the garage or a hallway drop zone with hooks and storage, this small upgrade offers big lifestyle perks. While the dollar-for-dollar ROI is moderate, it can absolutely help your home sell faster and feel more “complete.”
Our shop-built mudroom benches and cubbies are tailored to fit your space and storage needs — no prefab parts, just solid craftsmanship.
Entertainment Centers
Cost range: $4,000 – $10,000
Typical ROI: ~50%
Buyer Demand in Raleigh: Mixed — depends on taste and execution
Built-in entertainment centers offer sleek, clutter-free living spaces — but they need to be thoughtfully designed to avoid looking dated or overbuilt. Buyers today prefer streamlined, modern cabinetry that frames the TV without overwhelming the room. Done well, it adds perceived value and design cohesion.
We offer custom floating consoles and full wall units built to your room’s layout and your style — from minimal to statement-making.
Home Offices & Built-In Desks
Cost range: $2,500 – $12,000
Typical ROI: Up to 87%
Buyer Demand in Raleigh: Very high (post-pandemic work-from-home shift)
One of the best investments right now. A dedicated, stylish home office is a huge draw for Raleigh’s hybrid workforce. Built-in desks, bookshelves, and cabinets can turn an unused corner or bedroom into a productivity haven — and buyers will notice.
We specialize in turning awkward nooks or spare rooms into Zoom-ready, fully functional workspaces.
Window Seats & Reading Nooks
Cost range: $500 – $3,000
Typical ROI: ~50%
Buyer Demand in Raleigh: Niche, but charming — especially in older or Craftsman-style homes
While not a must-have, a cozy window seat can add a lot of “emotional value.” Buyers love them in nurseries, dormers, or as charming reading nooks. Bonus if the bench includes storage or built-in bookcases on either side.
Add one-of-a-kind charm to your home with a custom bench or reading nook — we can match your window trim or interior style.
Custom Closet Systems
Cost range: $1,500 – $5,000
Typical ROI: 50–60%
Buyer Demand in Raleigh: Very high — storage sells
Walk-in closets with smart storage are high on buyers’ wish lists. Whether it’s the primary suite or a secondary closet, built-in organizers, drawers, and shelving make a space feel more luxurious and functional.
We design closet systems for reach-ins, walk-ins, or anything in between — and we don’t just “install kits.” Everything is custom fit and made in-shop.
At-a-Glance ROI Comparison
Built-In Type | Estimated Cost | Typical ROI |
Bookcases/Shelving | $2,000 – $14,000 | 60–80% |
Mudroom Benches/Cubbies | $3,000 – $10,000 | ~50% |
Entertainment Centers | $4,000 – $10,000 | ~50% |
Home Offices & Built-Ins | $2,500 – $12,000 | Up to 87% |
Window Seats & Nooks | $500 – $3,000 | ~50% |
Closet Systems | $1,500 – $5,000 | 50–60% |
Final Thoughts + How to Get Started
Built-ins not only make your home more beautiful — they make it more functional. And here in Raleigh, where buyers value storage, flexibility, and custom touches, they can absolutely pay off.
Want to get started with your own project? Whether you’re thinking of a built-in bench, a reading nook, a statement media wall, or a full office setup, we’d love to help.
👉 Book a Consultation or visit our design center in Raleigh to explore materials, layouts, and custom solutions.
📍 Based in Raleigh, NC | 🛠️ Custom cabinetry, built-ins & home storage solutions
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