Making your house stand out has become essential to drawing in buyers and getting a better sale price. The scenario is in place due to the current cutthroat real estate market. Considering the average US home cost approximately $412,000 in 2023, even small upgrades can have a big ROI. The good news is that these upgrades do not have to break the bank. You can DIY with basic skills like caulking, deep cleaning, or knowing how to measure a door for replacement. The National Association of Realtors 2022 Remodeling Impact Report states that inexpensive improvements can make a difference. It can increase the market value of your house and bring a great cost recovery. Here are some of the most significant yet affordable home improvements you can make.
Improving curb appeal is essential because it is the first thing prospective buyers will see when they view your home. Simple landscaping changes, such as adding fresh mulch, trimming bushes, and planting colorful flowers, can create a welcoming environment. Based on the NAR's 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, a lawn care service recoups 217% of its costs at resale. A well-kept yard is inviting and indicates that the home is well-cared for. According to Wallaby Windows, your front door is the introduction point of your home to new visitors. Repainting or replacing the front door and adding a decorative door knocker or house number can immediately improve curb appeal. A welcoming entryway that creates a positive impression on potential buyers can be created by adding a new doormat. You can also add some potted plants to the entrance.
A lush, green lawn further enhances curb appeal, especially if you choose low-maintenance options like TifTuf Bermuda grass, which thrives in warm climates and requires less water. A well-kept lawn signals proper maintenance to buyers, potentially increasing your home’s attractiveness and market value.
A simple and efficient way to upgrade your home is to replace old fixtures and hardware. Replace outdated faucets, light fixtures, and cabinet handles with more modern designs. Ensure optimal lighting, especially natural light. These modest expenditures can give your house a new look and feel overall. Replacing old, discolored outlets and switch covers with new ones is a simple and inexpensive upgrade. These minor accents can give a space a polished, well-kept feel. It is a simple DIY project that improves the overall look of your house in a subtle yet good way. Furthermore, homes with eco-friendly features—like LED lighting that uses less energy—sell for more money. According to a 2022 Zillow study, sustainable homes typically sell two days quicker.
A clean, clutter-free home feels more spacious and welcoming. Deep cleaning of each room, including carpets and windows, can make a big difference. As per the National Association of Realtors' 2023 Home Staging Report, 50% of sellers' agents recommend decluttering the house. This is applicable even if the seller does not want to spend extra money on staging before listing a home. A neat and well-organized home makes it easier for buyers to picture themselves living there.
Remodeling magazine's 2022 Cost vs. Value Report states that small kitchen renovations have a 71.2% ROI. Without doing a whole makeover, updating the backsplash with priced but stylish tiles can give the kitchen a new look. Homes with "tuxedo kitchens"—with cabinets that are painted two different colors—sell quickly and fetch a higher price.
Grout and caulk can develop stains and cracks with time. To give your bathroom and kitchen a brand-new look, refinish the grout. Also, caulk the areas surrounding your sinks, tubs, and showers. Re-grouting the shower with new tiles can cost about $325, according to Forbes Home—a modest investment for a modern, refreshed appearance. A NAR's 2022 report highlights that renovating hardwood floors yields the highest Joy Score, and it is almost 1o times. Also, the approach incurs the most significant cost recovery. However, proceed only if you have the funds, as it can be an expensive project.
Indeed, tech-savvy consumers may find smart home appliances like lighting controls, security systems, and thermostats appealing. On the contrary, some high-end buyers may prefer simplicity over high-tech features. Overly complicated systems can even deter certain potential buyers. Hence, homeowners should consider which technologies will have broad appeal and avoid those that cater to niche interests.
Improved insulation and energy-efficient windows can reduce energy costs and boost comfort. Buyers place a high value on these upgrades, which aids sellers in recouping costs. Also, conduct a home energy audit to pinpoint particular areas where your home is losing energy.
For a perfect fit for your front door, prioritize careful measurement, selection of materials, and installation techniques. Apply a waterproof membrane around the door frame, focusing on areas prone to moisture, like the sill and top corners. Install quality locks and deadbolts for security. If your door includes glass elements, consider double-glazed, laminated options for better insulation.
It is possible to recover up to 147% of the project cost by refinishing existing hardwood floors. Known for its durability and cost-effectiveness, LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) flooring offers a realistic wood-like appearance. This is resistant to water, stains, and scratches. If replaced, high-quality or laminate flooring is reasonably priced and gives a contemporary appearance. In the end, never forget that remodeling your home does not have to be costly. Making minor renovations and improvements can have a big impact. Eventually, it increases the speed and price at which you sell your house.
