8 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home

There are various ways to add value to your home, ranging from simple DIY tasks to more significant investments requiring professional help.

1. Clean and Declutter

Start by reducing the amount of stuff in your home. Cleaning and decluttering are relatively inexpensive tasks, even for larger homes. Professional cleaning for a four-bedroom home averages between $200 and $225. Save money by doing the work yourself: go through cabinets, closets, and drawers, making donation piles and getting rid of items you don’t need.

2. Add Usable Square Footage

Homes are valued by their livable square feet. Adding a bathroom, a great room, or another functional space can increase value. A separate in-law suite is also a smart idea, setting your home apart when it’s time to sell.

3. Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient

Projects that lower utility bills can increase your home’s value. Installing a smart thermostat, for example, helps improve efficiency and save money by allowing you to control your home’s climate from anywhere. This can cost between $175 to $1,000, averaging around $350. Other ways to improve energy efficiency include replacing old windows, installing energy-efficient appliances, and adding insulation.

4. Spruce It Up with Fresh Paint

A fresh coat of paint can make both interiors and exteriors look new. Start with rooms that have unusual color schemes. Interior painting projects can cost between $970 and $3,000, depending on room size. Exterior painting is more expensive, ranging from $1,810 to $4,505. For smaller jobs, DIY can save money, but for larger projects, hiring a professional might be worth it.

5. Work on Your Curb Appeal

Improving curb appeal, such as power washing the driveway and mowing the lawn, can significantly impact your home’s value. Upgrading the landscape with a fresh walkway, shrubs, planters, or even a new patio can be very effective.

6. Upgrade Your Exterior Doors

Replacing an old front door can dramatically enhance your home’s appearance. Don’t forget the garage doors, which often take up a significant portion of the home’s front. Installing modern or rustic doors can greatly improve curb appeal and offers one of the highest returns on investment among home renovations.

7. Update Your Kitchen

The kitchen is often a focal point for buyers. While a full kitchen remodel can be costly, minor updates such as midrange appliance upgrades and modern hardware on cabinets offer a better return on investment. Even small changes can make a significant impact.

8. Stage Your Home

If you’re planning to sell, consider home staging instead of extensive cosmetic improvements. Staging costs vary from $800 to $2,800 and can include decluttering, depersonalization, and bringing in rented furnishings. A real estate agent can help determine the most impactful staging options for your home.