The goal when preparing a home for sale is to always maximize the number of people interested in viewing the property. Besides doing full top-to-bottom remodels when trying to sell your home for top dollar, there is a growing trend to prepare your home that yields a significant return on your investment (for every dollar you can expect $3 to $4 in return.
“You only get a few seconds to make an impression on potential buyers, and consumers are quick to decide by the photography if the home is appealing (or not). White walls with updated lighting fixtures or a beautiful kitchen faucet create appeal and will encourage your potential buyers to stop scrolling and get in their car for that open house.”
From simple upgrades like fresh coats of paint to more ambitious endeavors like building custom furniture or installing energy-efficient fixtures, the possibilities are endless. In this guide, we'll explore a range of DIY projects that can transform your space into a more attractive and valuable place to live. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and unlock the potential of your home!
Under $500
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Update Light Bulbs
- One of the easiest ways to freshen up your home is to replace the old and discolored lightbulbs throughout the home. With just that simple swap you can ensure each room showcases matching light temperatures, brighten a dim hallway, and allow the home to be seen through a brighter light - literally.
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Interior Paint
- Interior painting is the biggest bang for your buck. Paint can hold onto pet stains, dirt, oil from hands, and scuff marks that result in an old, tired, and dirty feel throughout the home. It is also a fun project if you have a steady hand and patience. We usually pick between two whites by Benjamin Moore: Chantilly Lace OC-65 or White Dove OC-17. Check out all my favorite white paints here. You might want to also paint or stain the front doors and garage doors to truly encompass the updated-fresh paint appearance.
Under $1000
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Replacing or Refinishing Floors
- 54% of homebuyers are willing to pay more for a home with hardwood floors. Floors can also hold onto years of traffic and tarnish that can bring down the home’s appearance. If your hardwood floors are scuffed and discolored you can also consider refinishing them with a fresh stain. Try to focus on areas with high traffic like the kitchen, entryway, living room, or dining room.
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Minor Kitchen Makeover
- Without undertaking a full kitchen renovation, consider these cosmetic updates that can elevate your kitchen to make it feel and look brand new. Replace your kitchen faucet with a contemporary pull-down faucet to dramatically transform the space. You can also update the hardware like cabinet knobs to match the finish of the kitchen faucet. Along with painting the interior of the home, consider painting the kitchen cabinets as well. I recommend Rust-Oleum Specialty Spray Paint for Plastic in white, 12 oz. which is under $10.00 from Amazon!
Over $1,000
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Replacing Carpets & Rugs
- Carpets and rugs are often overlooked when it comes to home improvement projects. Over time, carpets can become worn, stained, or outdated, detracting from the overall aesthetic appeal of the space. Whether you opt for luxurious wall-to-wall carpeting or trendy area rugs, the flooring will instantly freshen up each room and create a more inviting atmosphere.
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Replacing Windows
- Replacing windows can make a significant impact on the overall look, energy efficiency, and value of your home. Old, inefficient windows not only contribute to drafts and energy loss but also give a dated appearance to your home’s exterior and interior. New windows offer improved insulation, noise reduction, and better security features all while improving the home’s architecture and curb appeal.
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Update Landscaping
- The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies within, and a well-designed and maintained landscape can greatly enhance its curb appeal. Transform a lackluster yard into an inviting oasis that catches the eye of a passerby. Consider adding colorful flower beds, neatly trimmed shrubs, and a lush green lawn to create a visually appealing and harmonious outdoor space. Pro-tip: Don’t forget to pay attention to seasonal maintenance, such as mulching and regular watering, to keep your landscaping looking its best year-round.
Embarking on DIY home improvement projects can be an excellent way to increase the value of your home while unleashing your creativity and saving money. Whether it's replacing carpets and rugs, upgrading windows, or enhancing your landscaping, each project contributes to the overall appeal, functionality, and efficiency of your home. By dedicating time and effort to these endeavors, you not only create a more inviting and stylish living space for yourself but also make your home more attractive to potential buyers in the future. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your tools, and let your imagination run wild as you take on these rewarding DIY projects to elevate your home's value and create a space you can truly be proud of.
Curious how our Compass Concierge programs can help you get started? Reach out today to start the conversation and we will guide you through the best return on investment projects custom tailored to your home.
