9 DIY Home Improvement Projects to Boost Property Value
Owning a home can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work. It gives you a chance to create a space that reflects your personality, but you’ll also have the responsibility of maintaining it if you want to keep the value of your home high. Whether you have plans to sell your home or simply want to enjoy a more comfortable living environment, do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement projects can be an effective and budget-friendly way to boost home value and spruce up your space. Here, we’ll explore nine DIY ideas, each designed to enhance your property’s appeal and increase its market value.
1. Curb Appeal Enhancement
They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression, and that’s particularly true for your home. Oftentimes, however, exterior projects get put on the back burner to make way for interior renovations. But, with a little strategic planning, you can improve your home’s curb appeal with a few easy steps. Consider these projects to elevate your home’s exterior without breaking the bank:
- Plant colorful flowers or shrubs that thrive in your region to add vibrancy.
- Apply a fresh coat of paint to your front door.
- Update the hardware of your front door or mailbox for a welcoming entrance.
- Upgrade outdoor lighting fixtures to illuminate pathways and showcase your home’s features.
- Maintain a well-groomed lawn and garden to create an inviting outdoor space.
2. Kitchen Updates
Kitchens are often considered the heart of a home, meaning that they can have a huge impact on overall property value. Even small kitchen updates or makeovers can have a substantial impact on the look and feel of your home. If your kitchen is a bit outdated or could use some attention, consider some of these easy projects:
- Repaint or refinish kitchen cabinets for a fresh look.
- Update the kitchen countertop.
- Replace outdated cabinet hardware with modern, stylish options.
- Consider painting the ceiling or kitchen walls.
- Install a new tile backsplash to add visual interest.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances to increase functionality and appeal.
3. Bathroom Remodeling
Bathrooms are usually the primary focus in renovation projects, but upgrading your space doesn’t have to be expensive. There are several DIY home improvement projects that make a dramatic impact in aesthetics and function. Whether you’re interested in installing a bathroom vanity or looking for more ways to make your bathroom feel like an oasis, consider some of these simple home upgrades:
- Install new fixtures for a contemporary look.
- Update the bathroom vanity with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware.
- Install a new showerhead.
- Apply a new coat of paint and re-caulk the bathtub or shower for a clean and appealing appearance.
- Retile or refinish the bathtub or shower.
- Upgrade to ceramic tile flooring for a sleek, modern feel.
- Consider adding stylish mirrors and lighting fixtures to enhance the space.
4. Energy-Efficient Improvements
Another DIY project that can be applied either within the bathroom or kitchen or across other areas of your home is energy efficient upgrades. Energy efficiency is a growing concern for homeowners, and a few changes can make your house more energy-efficient, reduce utility bills, and add value. Some ways you can improve the energy efficiency of your home include:
- Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to improve insulation.
- Add insulation to your attic and walls for better temperature control.
- Install a programmable thermostat for precise climate management.
- Consider replacing old windows with energy-efficient models.
5. Deck or Patio Expansion
Another great home improvement idea is to add a deck or patio. If you have outdoor space, a well-designed and maintained deck or patio area can add a ton of value to your property and provide you with a great place to hang out with family and friends. Although there are some options that may require professional help, this home renovation project can be tackled on your own with the right supplies and some patience. Just make sure you find a deck or patio that’s easy to install! However, if you’re going to want to excavate any land, you’ll need to speak with a professional to avoid potential issues with plumbing and electricity. Afterward, just make sure that you properly care for your deck and patio by keeping it sealed to protect it from the elements.
6. Lighting Upgrades
Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating the right ambiance within your home. Upgrading your lighting fixtures is, therefore, an easy home improvement project that can be tackled in a weekend. Swap out any outdated lighting fixtures for modern, more energy-efficient alternatives. During this time, you may also want to consider switching to smart lighting systems for added convenience and customization. Oftentimes, they’re easy to install and can make a huge difference. You could also install dimmer switches to bring it all together with adjustable lighting and mood enhancements.
7. Storage Solutions
Ample storage space is highly sought after by homebuyers, but finding creative storage solutions isn’t always an easy DIY project. Each home layout needs to be carefully considered in order to maximize your property’s functionality and appeal. For example, you may have a ton of extra closets, which can be crafted into built-in shelves or mudrooms. Under-stair storage is also a great way to add custom storage solutions without impacting floor space. There’s a good chance that you have tons of untapped storage potential, so don’t be afraid to get creative and see what happens. However, we don’t recommend tearing down any walls, as this can be dangerous if you don’t have any carpentry experience.
8. Landscaping
Another great way to improve the outside of your home is through landscaping. However, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on a professional to make an impact. Instead, regularly trim your bushes and trees to help maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth. You can also try to choose low-maintenance shrubs and flowers or add a few aesthetic hardscape elements like pathways and rock gardens. To keep things looking great, simply keep up with regular mowing and irrigation.
9. Painting Interior Walls
Every room in your home could benefit from a fresh coat of paint, which can transform the interior space. If you don’t want to paint every single room, choose a few focal points to make a big impact. Oftentimes, this would mean repainting the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom. If choosing a paint color, try to stick to neutrals to help open up the room and make it appear more spacious. Use high-quality paint with proper technique to give your home a facelift that will last. If you’re not going to paint a room a new color, at least try to color-match it and cover any scuffs or marks on the wall. When doing this, you may also want to consider retouching the crown molding. Alternatively, you could consider adding wallpaper to one or more walls for an accent.
Embracing DIY home improvement projects can be a fulfilling endeavor that not only enhances your living space but also increases your property’s value. However, before diving into any DIY project, it’s important to research thoroughly, create a detailed plan, gather the necessary tools and materials, and prioritize safety precautions. There are several ways to upgrade your home, but you should never do something that jeopardizes your safety.
Whether you intend to sell your home or continue enjoying it for years to come, DIY projects can make your home more comfortable, attractive, and valuable. If you want to improve your home to sell it, reach out to a seasoned real estate agent at First Star Realty. Our realtors can help you navigate the housing market and get a better understanding of what current buyers are looking for so you can be strategic about DIY home projects. If you have any questions about your home’s current value, or the buying/selling process as a whole, the reputable real estate agents at First Star Realty can help. First Star Realty is committed to providing five-star realtor services to Northwest Arkansas and can help you sell your home—or find a new one. Our team of real estate professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service to all of our clients. Call us today at 479-267-1600 or fill out a contact form on our website.
