7 Weekend Projects to Boost Your Property Value
1 Freshen Your Front Door
Front door looking a little tired? a new coat of paint or stain can make your home more inviting to today's guests and tomorrow's buyers.
Think carefully about your choice of hue. Cement gray, for instance, was found to decrease purchase offers. Going too bold can also deter home shoppers. Safest bets are classic black or mid-tone browns.
2 Upgrade Your Hardware and Lighting
Swapping out old hardware for modern alternatives can easily and affordably elevate your space. New cabinet handles, for example, are relatively inexpensive and require just a few minutes and a screwdriver to install. To maximize the longevity of your update, consider classic shapes and finishes like brass knobs or nickel cup pulls.
Take a look at your light fixtures, too. Try replacing an out-of-style chandelier with a more contemporary option. Even just updating your lampshades and lightbulbs can create a brighter, more welcoming space.
3 Update Your Bathroom Fixtures
Since many buyers will be more drawn to a home that feels clean and modern, even small changes can make a big difference.
Bathroom hardware is a great place to start. Consider updating your faucets and showerheads and don't forget about towel racks, toilet paper holders, and any other fixtures that look worn or discolored.
4 Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a Makeover
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, so it's no surprise that an updated kitchen is a top priority for current homeowners and potential buyers alike.
Fortunately, you don’t need to commit to the hassle and expense of installing new cabinets if your current ones are in good shape. Instead, consider painting them.
Not only is it more affordable and eco-friendly than replacement, this option typically offers a greater return on investment.
5 Look at Your Landscaping
One of the best ways to improve curb appeal is through landscaping—and it doesn’t have to be elaborate. First and foremost, focus on keeping things neat, tidy, and welcoming. Mow your lawn, refresh any mulch, prune overgrown shrubs, and add pops of color with flowers. To take things up a notch, add outdoor lighting and plant perennial flowers along the sides of your walkway.
6 Refinish Your Wood Floors
For many buyers, wood floors are a huge selling point. Unfortunately, they also tend to get scuffed and worn over time, especially if you have kids or pets.
If you have a few days to devote to your floors, you can rent the necessary equipment from a local hardware store. While you’re there, pick up some basic supplies, like a putty knife, paintbrushes, sandpaper, and stain. And if you want to modernize your space, opt for a lighter wood tone, which is the current trend.
7 Clean or Replace Your Grout
Grout that’s in poor condition is often one of the first things a potential buyer notices when they tour a bathroom. Fresh, clean grout, on the other hand, makes your bathroom sparkle—and that can pay off in a big way in terms of buyer’s perceptions.
If your grout is simply stained, a focused cleaning session can make a big difference. Try a specialized product or a simple mix of baking soda, water, and hydrogen peroxide. If the grout is cracked, crumbling, or stained beyond repair, it’s time to replace it. Luckily, the right tools make that a very doable DIY project, even if it can get messy—and it’s a lot easier and less expensive than retiling.
