DIY Fixes That Will Raise Your Home's Value on the Market

In the competitive real estate market, small DIY improvements can make a big difference in your home’s value.

Buyers are often drawn to properties with modern touches and well-maintained features, and many of these upgrades don’t require professional help. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or just want to increase its value, here are some impactful DIY projects to consider.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions are crucial, and the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see. A tidy, welcoming entry can set the tone for the entire property.

• Paint the Front Door: A freshly painted front door makes your home look well-cared-for and inviting. Bold colors like red, navy, or even a rich black can create a striking impression. Use weather-resistant paint to keep it looking fresh.
• Upgrade the Landscaping: Trim overgrown bushes, plant colorful flowers, and add a fresh layer of mulch to flower beds. Consider adding inexpensive solar-powered path lights for a welcoming glow in the evening.
• Pressure Wash the Exterior: Over time, dirt and grime can make your home look dingy. Use a pressure washer to clean siding, brickwork, sidewalks, and the driveway. This simple step can instantly brighten the appearance of your home.

Refresh Interior Paint

One of the most cost-effective ways to give your home a fresh look is by updating the paint. Neutral colors like soft grays, beiges, and whites appeal to most buyers and make spaces feel clean and modern. Stick to lighter shades, as they can make rooms feel larger and more inviting.

For a minimal investment, you can repaint walls, ceilings, and even cabinets if they’re outdated.

Use high-quality paint and take your time prepping the surfaces to ensure a smooth, professional finish. If you’re new to painting, there are plenty of tutorials online to guide you through the basics, from taping edges to choosing the right brushes.

Update Fixtures and Hardware

Replacing old fixtures is a simple way to modernize your home without spending a fortune. Some easy, budget-friendly options include:

• Lighting Fixtures: Swap outdated light fixtures for contemporary designs, such as pendant lights, sconces, or modern chandeliers. Choose LED options to improve energy efficiency, which is a bonus for potential buyers.
• Cabinet Hardware: Replacing cabinet handles and drawer pulls can give kitchens and bathrooms an instant update. Opt for finishes that are trending, like brushed nickel, matte black, or brass.
• Faucets and Showerheads: Installing new faucets and showerheads can add a touch of luxury to bathrooms and kitchens. Many updated models also include water-saving features, which can appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Maximize Storage

Buyers often look for homes with ample storage, so maximizing storage in your home can make it more attractive.

Simple DIY solutions can help make existing storage more functional and appealing.

• Add Shelving: Install shelves in closets, the garage, or even in underutilized spaces like entryways. Floating shelves can add storage without taking up much room and create visual interest.
• Closet Organizers: Invest in an affordable closet organizer system to make closets feel larger and more usable. These systems typically include hanging racks, shelving, and bins, which help make better use of the space.
• Install Hooks and Racks: Entryway and mudroom hooks or racks can provide convenient storage for coats, bags, and hats. It’s a simple addition that can make a big difference, especially if your home lacks a formal mudroom.

Upgrade the Kitchen Backsplash

A new backsplash can completely transform the look of your kitchen. Self-adhesive, peel-and-stick tiles are affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of styles, from subway tile to intricate mosaic patterns.

This project can be completed in a single weekend and makes your kitchen look more polished and modern.

If you prefer a more traditional approach, tile backsplashes are still DIY-friendly with the right tools.

You’ll need tile adhesive, a tile cutter, and grout. There are many online tutorials that can guide you through the process step-by-step, even if it’s your first tiling project.

Replace Worn Carpeting or Update Flooring

Old, worn-out carpeting can make a home feel dated and unattractive. If replacing all the carpet in your home is too costly, focus on high-traffic areas like living rooms or entryways, or consider adding affordable area rugs to hide the wear.

Another option is to replace carpet with more durable and desirable flooring materials, such as vinyl planks or laminate. These materials are often DIY-friendly, easy to clean, and come in various wood-like finishes that appeal to modern buyers. Many systems use a “click and lock” installation method, allowing even beginners to achieve professional results.

Add a Tile Accent Wall in the Bathroom

Bathrooms are key areas buyers focus on, and small upgrades here can add significant value. Adding a tile accent wall can make a bathroom feel luxurious without requiring a complete renovation.

You could tile behind the sink, for example, or in the shower area. Peel-and-stick tiles work well here too, especially in small bathrooms where moisture can sometimes be an issue with wallpaper.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient upgrades are increasingly important to buyers who are conscious of their environmental impact and interested in reducing utility bills.

• Seal Windows and Doors: Small cracks and gaps around windows and doors can lead to drafts and higher energy bills. Caulking and weather-stripping are inexpensive fixes that make a big difference.
• Install a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat is a simple way to improve energy efficiency. Many models allow you to set temperatures remotely and adjust based on the time of day, making it easy for potential buyers to see the benefits of a smart home feature.
• Add Insulation: If you’re comfortable with DIY work, adding insulation in your attic or basement can increase energy efficiency. Better insulation keeps the home warm in winter and cool in summer, which buyers will appreciate.

Modernize Your Bathroom Mirrors and Vanity

Bathrooms don’t need to be fully remodeled to look updated. Simple updates to the vanity, mirror, and lighting can make an impressive difference.

• Frame Your Bathroom Mirror: Framing a plain mirror gives it a high-end look without needing to replace it entirely. You can use molding from a hardware store to build a frame that matches your decor.
• Refinish the Vanity: If the vanity looks outdated, a fresh coat of paint and new hardware can bring it up to date. Consider light, neutral colors, which will make the bathroom feel bright and inviting.

DIY improvements don’t have to be expensive or complex to boost your home’s value. Small, targeted updates can make a significant impact on how appealing your home is to buyers. By investing a little time and effort in these projects, you can increase your home’s marketability and potentially add thousands to its value.