I’m often asked by clients about what budget-friendly upgrades they can do to increase the value of their homes before selling. There are a number that I recommend. These are smart, targeted fixes rather than full-scale remodels. Here are the ones I often recommend, what to do, and why they matter.
1. Refresh paint & neutralize colour palette
What to do:
- Paint interior walls in neutral tones (greige, beige, off-white) so buyers can more easily envision themselves in the space.
- Fix scuffs, patch holes, clean trim, etc. Makes the home look well maintained.
Why it adds value:
- A fresh neutral palette improves first impressions and broadens appeal.
- It’s relatively inexpensive and has high impact. The ROI ranges from 50-100%
Tips:
- Pick durable paint and good finish especially for high-traffic areas.
- For exterior/front door, choose a colour that works with home style but is still broadly appealing.
- Don’t over-customize (bright or bold colours may turn off some buyers).
2. Improve curb appeal to make a great first impression
What to do:
- Tidy up front yard: mow lawn, trim bushes, clean up flower beds.
- Power-wash driveway, siding, walkways.
- If it’s winter, keep walkways and stair clear of snow.
- Update front door hardware, mailbox, house numbers, lighting fixtures.
Why it adds value:
- The exterior (what buyers see first) sets expectations for the whole house. A well-kept, inviting exterior helps create a positive response.
- Simple upgrades often offer good bang-for-buck.
Tips:
- Keep landscaping easy and low-maintenance (investors or buyers appreciate not having a high-maintenance yard).
- Choose fixtures/hardware that coordinate style-wise.
- Ensure exterior lighting is functioning.
3. Update lighting & fixtures
What to do:
- Replace outdated or broken light fixtures with more modern ones (dining room, entryway, bathrooms).
- Switch to LED bulbs and ensure rooms are well lit.
- Consider adding accent lighting or brighter fixtures in darker rooms.
Why it adds value:
- Light affects atmosphere: brighter, well-lit rooms feel larger, more welcoming.
- Lighting upgrades cost less than many structural changes but visually can change a room significantly.
Tips:
- Make sure new light fixtures suit the home’s style (not too trendy unless the home fits that aesthetic).
- Avoid mixing very different styles (e.g., ultra-modern fixture in very traditional home) unless intentionally styled.
4. Kitchen & bathroom refresh (not full remodel)
What to do:
- Instead of a full renovation, focus on the much more budget-friendly refacing or painting of cabinets, replacing hardware (handles/knobs), updating faucets and fixtures.
- Update countertops only if they are extremely dated or worn. Choose neutral, good quality but budget-friendly materials.
- In bathrooms: re-caulk, re-grout, and replace old showerheads and fixtures.
Why it adds value:
- Kitchens and bathrooms are big selling points. But full remodels often cost too much for full ROI. Many sources show smaller scale updates yield better value relative to cost.
Tips:
- Match what’s normal for your neighbourhood – don’t over-upgrade beyond what buyers expect in your market.
- Keep finishes neutral so they appeal broadly.
- If budget is limited, prioritize flaws (e.g., dripping faucet, chipped tile).
5. Declutter, deep-clean & stage
What to do:
- Remove excess furniture and personal items so rooms appear larger and buyers can imagine their own things in the space. This is one of the most budget-friendly things you can do!
- Deep-clean: carpets, windows, baseboards, handles. Clean homes give an impression of being well-maintained.
- In closets/storage spaces, tidy and organize — visible storage impacts buyer perceptions.
- Consider simple staging: mirrors to reflect light and remove bulky furniture.
Why it adds value:
- Buyers respond strongly to how a home makes them fee. Clean, open, uncluttered homes feel more desirable.
- These fixes cost relatively little but may improve buyer interest and perceived value.
Tips:
- Use neutral decor and remove bold personal items (bright paintings, very specialised collections).
- For open houses/photos, ensure lights are on, blinds open to let natural light in.
- We offer cleaning, decluttering and staging services at no extra cost when you list with the Charles Francis Team!
Key considerations & budget-strategy
- Prioritize visible, high-impact, budget-friendly upgrades rather than major renovations. Big remodels often don’t recoup full cost.
- Set a budget and stick to it: The goal is to make the home more appealing and sellable, not to pour thousands into upgrades you won’t recover.
- Document everything from upgraded fixtures to new paint date and receipts! This is helpful information when putting together marketing material for your home.
- Time your improvements so they’re fresh for listing: e.g., painting right before listing, staging right before photos.
- Be sure home is in good structural and functional condition. No major leaks, safety issues, or deferred maintenance. Cosmetic upgrades only shine when fundamentals are solid.