Easy Ways to Increase Your Home's Value

Are you thinking about selling your home? Whether you plan to list it soon or want to boost its value for the future, there are several simple yet effective ways to maximize its value without emptying your wallet. Explore easy and practical ways to help you get the most out of your property sale.

Creating a Welcoming Entrance

You know what they say about first impressions? That applies to your home's exterior. A new doormat, potted plants or stylish house numbers can make visitors feel at home.

Over 90% of realtors suggest improving curb appeal before listing, so get your hands dirty with some landscaping, slap a fresh coat of paint on that front door and give your mailbox a makeover. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes.

Revamping the Bathrooms

Bathrooms matter, too! You don't need a whole renovation — simple changes like replacing worn-out tiles, updating the vanity or adding new faucets can freshen up the space and bring a "return on investment" of over 70%.

Upgrading Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is where the heart is, but you don't need a big budget for an upgrade. Swap out those old appliances, give those cabinets a facelift and put in some new fixtures. You'll be pleased to know a minor kitchen remodel can score you an 80% return on investment.

Incorporating Millwork

Don't forget about the millwork. Updating the baseboards, crown molding and trim can add an extra touch of elegance to your home.

Buyers often notice these intricate details that give a home its character. They see it as a sign of craftsmanship and are willing to pay more for homes with these charming touches. Don't underestimate the impact of updating these areas of your home.

Updating Lighting

Good lighting can make your home feel spacious, inviting and stylish. Swapping out outdated light fixtures for modern ones can instantly elevate your home’s appearance. Pendant lights in the kitchen, a statement chandelier in the dining room or stylish sconces in the hallway can become eye-catching focal points.

You can also create layers of light in each room. Combine ambient, task and accent lighting to set the right mood and functionality. For instance, under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen can make meal prep a breeze, while soft bedside lamps can create a cozy atmosphere.

Of course, switching to energy-efficient lighting is also a smart move. It allows you to brighten your home with the same amount of light while spending less money. Lighting typically consumes about 15% of the electricity in an average home. By switching to LED lighting, a typical household can save $225 on energy expenses annually – savings that would not be lost on a buyer.

Flooring and Fresh Paint

Got old, tired flooring? Outdated or worn floors can turn buyers away. You can go with hardwood floors since they never go out of style and they can increase your home's value by three to five percent. If you're on a budget, laminate flooring offers a cost-effective alternative to hardwood.

A fresh coat of paint can also do wonders for your home's appearance. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to revamp your space. The key here is to choose neutral colors that appeal to a broad audience. Consider painting the walls, cabinets, trims and doors to create a cohesive, clean style.

Decluttering and Depersonalizing

Before putting your home on the market, declutter and depersonalize it to make it look less "you." A clean, clutter-free space helps potential buyers see themselves living there.

Regular upkeep is your secret weapon to preserving your home's value. Fix issues pronto to avoid bigger headaches down the road.

Boosting Your Home's Value

Increasing your home's value doesn't have to be a big hassle. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or just starting out, these tips are doable.

These tips are easy ways to spruce up your place and catch the eye of potential buyers. Every little thing you do gets you closer to that sweet return on investment.

Evelyn Long is the founder of home living magazine Renovated where she writes about the current housing market and real estate. She has also written for publications like National Association of Realtors, Building Enclosure, and McKissock. You can see more of Evelyn work by following her on X.