Home renovations are an excellent way to boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. However, taking on a major home overhaul may not be worth it, especially if you plan to sell your home soon. While a complete overhaul can make your home look more functional and appealing to potential buyers, it can cost a lot of money and won’t give you a decent return.
On top of home upgrade costs, you’ll incur many other costs when selling your home. These costs can quickly add up to several thousand dollars, dramatically reducing your return on investment after selling your home. While looking for ways to save on realtor fees and closing costs, you may also want to stick to small upgrades that can add significant value to your home without breaking the bank. Here are a few inexpensive upgrades that can add value to your home:
1. Add Low-Cost Landscaping
Low-cost landscaping, such as adding colorful plants and shrubs, can add significant value and curb appeal to your home. To get the most returns on your investment, consider purchasing plants native to your region or perennials instead of annual plants. These plants will help you save time and money while keeping your yard green and lush since they require less watering and maintenance.
You also should plant grass or add fresh sod to bald spots in your yard and prune overgrown shrubs and trees to complete your yard’s new look. Instead of hiring a landscaper, consider redoing the yard on your own to reduce the landscaping costs.
2. Update Fixtures and Hardware
Outdated light fixtures, faucets, outlet covers, door knobs, curtain rods, and switch plates can make your home look dated. Fortunately, you can update hardware and fixtures and make your home look more modern for only a few dollars. You can transform the look of your home without spending a fortune by replacing outdated pieces with inexpensive but more attractive metal outlet covers, doorknobs, and switch plates.
Today, you can find inexpensive fixtures and hardware items that can give your house a more contemporary look. Since buying new curtain rods and light fixtures can be expensive, you can give them a more elegant look for just a few dollars by spraying a new coat of paint. Ensure you choose fixtures and hardware with neutral colors and finishes if you plan to sell your home soon.
3. Apply a New Coat of Paint
Painting is undoubtedly one of the most inexpensive updates that can maximize your home’s value and give you the most return on your investment. If the paint on your walls has an outdated color, scratches, or looks dirty, applying a new coat of paint can instantly transform the look of your home and add value to it. You may also consider painting the kitchen cabinets and your home’s exterior, including the front door. Be sure to choose a neutral paint color that appeals to many buyers if you plan to sell your home to maximize its value.
4. Refinish Hardwood Floors
Dated and scuffed hardwood floors can turn off many potential buyers and affect your home’s value when ready to sell. However, replacing hardwood floors can be extremely expensive, and you may not recoup all your dollars after the sale. Instead of replacing your hardwood flooring, you should refinish it to restore its original charm and increase your home’s resale value without breaking the bank.
Endnote
Updating your home shouldn’t be costly or complicated. The simple updates above can help boost your home’s curb appeal and maximize its value without spending a fortune.
