Since buying our house over two years ago, my husband and I have been busy making improvements to boost its value. At first, we focused on making it look nicer, but later we shifted to projects that would not only make us happy but also increase the market value, considering we might sell in the future.
Owning a home means continuously finding ways to add value. Surprisingly, not all improvements need a professional; some simple DIY projects can be just as effective. Here are some easy, impactful ways to enhance your home’s value:
1. **Paint the Walls:** A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference. With some basic tools from places like Home Depot, you can do this yourself for around $75. Experts say painting can boost your home’s value by $2,000. Choose colors that make rooms look bigger and brighter.
2. **Replace Your Bathroom Vanity:** Full bathroom renovations can be expensive, but a smaller change like updating the vanity is more budget-friendly and makes a big impact.
3. **Change Your Cabinet Hardware:** Updating your kitchen’s look can be as simple as replacing cabinet handles or repainting the cabinets. You can find affordable hardware options on Amazon.
4. **Trim Your Trees:** Properly maintained trees can significantly add to your property’s value. Regular trimming keeps them healthy and looking good.
5. **Integrate Energy-Efficient Systems:** While this is a bigger investment, energy-efficient appliances are attractive to buyers and can sometimes qualify for rebates.
6. **Install Outdoor Lighting:** Adding outdoor lighting is a simple project that can make your home more inviting and appealing to buyers.
7. **Replace Your Entry Doors:** A new front door boosts curb appeal and is a smart financial investment, returning up to about 96% of its cost in added value.
8. **Update Light Fixtures:** Old light fixtures can decrease your home’s value. Replacing them, or adding ceiling fans, can improve your home’s appeal.
9. **Plant Perennials:** Investing in perennials instead of annuals cuts down on replanting and boosts your home’s value with attractive, lasting landscaping.
10. **Refinish the Floors:** If you have hardwood floors, refinishing them can refresh your home’s look and increase its value. Home Depot offers guides for DIY refinishing projects.
11. **Small Bathroom Updates:** Tiny changes like updating wallpaper or faucets can make a bathroom more appealing to buyers.
12. **Power Wash:** Power washing the exterior of your home can greatly increase its curb appeal, impacting its overall market value.
Boosting your home’s value doesn’t always require major renovations or huge expenses. Even small DIY projects can make a significant difference. If you live in an older house and are thinking about moving, these tips could help make your home more attractive and valuable. Let us know if you’ve tried any of these suggestions or if there are other improvement ideas we missed.