14 Affordable Home Improvement Ideas to Increase Your Property Value

Everyone wants to get the most value out of their home, whether they're preparing to sell or simply looking to improve their living space. With a few strategic and cost-effective improvements, you can boost your property value without putting a massive dent in your wallet.

1. Paint: A Fresh Coat for a Fresh Look

One of the most affordable and effective ways to upgrade your home is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Neutral and light colors tend to make rooms feel larger and more inviting, which can be attractive to potential buyers. Be careful to avoid dark colors which make rooms look smaller. This simple DIY project can have a significant impact on your property value, with minimal investment required. Painting can make a home smell wonderful too! But make sure to watch lots of how-to videos, as painting is a learned skill.

2. Update Hardware and Fixtures

Another inexpensive way to give your home a facelift is by updating hardware and fixtures. Swap out old doorknobs, cabinet handles, faucets and light fixtures for more modern options. These small changes can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your home, and they're usually easy to install on your own.

3. Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to selling your home. Improving your curb appeal doesn't have to be expensive, but it can greatly impact your home's value. Simple tasks like trimming hedges, mowing the lawn, and planting flowers can go a long way. Additionally, consider pressure washing your paved driveway, walkway, and siding to give your home a clean, fresh appearance. Add some native plants for attracting birds and butterflies.

1. Declutter and Organize

A clutter-free home is more appealing to potential buyers and can make your space feel larger and more functional. It is a better space for you to live and work. Start by decluttering and organizing closets, pantries, and storage spaces. Then, create designated areas for everyday items to keep your home looking clean and organized. This may not require any financial investment, but it can make a significant difference in how your home is perceived, and it will make your every day more pleasant!

1. Install Energy-Efficient Features

Energy efficiency is a big selling point for modern buyers. While some energy-efficient upgrades can be pricey, there are affordable options that can still make a difference. Consider replacing incandescent or CFL light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs, installing a programmable thermostat, or adding weatherstripping to doors and windows. These small improvements can reduce energy bills and increase the appeal of your home to potential buyers. Also, make sure the windows are locked, we find open windows all the time, even in the winter!

1. Boost Your Bathroom Appeal

Bathrooms are important to home buyers, and sprucing them up can be affordable. A deep clean, fresh caulk, and updated fixtures can instantly make a bathroom look more attractive. If you're willing to spend a bit more, consider re-grouting tiles or installing a new vanity for an even more significant impact. Update and modernize the hooks and towel bars.

1. Refresh Your Kitchen

Kitchens are often considered the heart of a home, and making small upgrades here can have a considerable impact on your property value. Painting cabinets, updating cabinet hardware, and adding a new backsplash are all affordable ways to give your kitchen a fresh look. Additionally, consider installing under-cabinet lighting to brighten the space and create a more inviting atmosphere. New countertops are pricer, but are a big selling point.

1. Replace/Refinish Old Flooring

While replacing your entire home's flooring can be expensive, focusing on high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms can be a cost-effective way to improve the look of your home. Consider affordable options like laminate, vinyl, or even refinishing existing hardwood floors for a fresh, updated appearance. If you have a bit more to spend, switch out old carpets for newer ones - or for hardwood.

1. Add Storage Solutions

Maximizing storage space is essential for many buyers, and adding clever storage solutions can be an affordable way to increase your home's value. Install shelves, hooks, or pegboards in closets, garages, or laundry rooms to create more usable storage space. Consider adding built-in bookshelves or window seats with storage compartments to enhance both function and aesthetic appeal.

1. Update Window Treatments

New window treatments can instantly change the look and feel of a room. Replacing old, dated curtains or blinds with modern, energy-efficient window treatments can make your home feel more inviting and polished. Choose neutral colors and materials that complement the overall design of your space. We love cellular shades, which let in light while keeping the windows well insulated.

1. Create Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living spaces are increasingly popular among homebuyers. You don't need to spend a fortune on elaborate landscaping to create a welcoming outdoor area. Add a patio or deck, install a fire pit, or create a simple seating area with outdoor furniture to make your backyard more appealing and functional.

1. Add Crown Molding

Crown molding adds a touch of elegance and can make a room feel more finished. This inexpensive upgrade can be installed as a DIY project or with the help of a professional. Consider adding crown molding to living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms for an extra touch of sophistication.

1. Upgrade Interior Doors

Replacing old, hollow-core doors with solid doors or doors with a more modern design can instantly make your home feel more updated and luxurious. This relatively inexpensive upgrade can have a significant impact on the overall appearance of your home's interior. Also, replacing the front door with a more energy efficient and solid door, with beautiful hardware, makes for a great first impression. Also, consider replacing old entryway stairs and landings that have seen better days. Buyers often form an opinion at the first step.

1. Improve Lighting

Good lighting can make a home feel more spacious and inviting. Consider adding floor lamps or table lamps in darker areas, installing dimmer switches to control the ambiance, or adding recessed lighting for a more modern look. Upgrading lighting fixtures can also contribute to the overall design and style of your home. More light makes spaces look bigger and cleaner. Utilize timers and smart devices to save electricity and program lighting to fit the time of day and season.

With these ideas, you can continue to make impactful upgrades to your home without spending a fortune. These cost-effective improvements can significantly boost your property's value and help you make the most of your investment.

Consult with an interior decorator and realtor before hiring contractors to make sure your improvements will result in an increase in the value of your home, and remember there are lots of great DIY videos online to learn how to take care and update your home. At Balsam, we have the expertise to target improvements to sell your home without spending a fortune, feel free to ask!