6 Simple Home Improvement Projects That Increase Property Value

Uncover the secrets to boosting your home’s market appeal with straightforward improvement tips that industry specialists swear by. These enhancements are not just about aesthetics—they’re strategic moves vetted by professionals to maximize your property’s value. Learn from the masters how simple changes, like a kitchen update or a fresh coat of paint, can make a significant impact. 

  • Update Kitchen with Modern Finishes
  • Modernize Kitchen with New Backsplash
  • Repaint Interior and Exterior
  • Refresh Entryway for Better First Impression
  • Repaint Interior for a Fresh Look
  • Install Subway Tile for Kitchen Upgrade

Update Kitchen with Modern Finishes

One simple home improvement project that significantly increased my property’s value was updating the kitchen with modern finishes. I replaced outdated cabinets with sleek, white shaker-style ones, upgraded the countertops to quartz, and installed a stylish backsplash. This transformation cost around $5,000-$7,000 but made a massive difference in the home’s appeal. My advice for anyone considering a similar project is to focus on neutral colors and timeless materials that will attract the most buyers. Also, if possible, tackle some of the work yourself–like painting or installing hardware–to save on labor costs while maximizing return on investment.

 

 

Parker McInnis Parker McInnis Owner, Speedy Sale Home Buyers


Modernize Kitchen with New Backsplash

One simple home improvement project that can make a big impact on your property’s value is updating the kitchen backsplash. It might seem minor, but it has a way of instantly modernizing the space and giving it a fresh, clean look–especially when paired with updated lighting or hardware.

We’ve done projects where just swapping out an outdated backsplash for something clean and contemporary–like subway tile, marble mosaic, or even a bold geometric design–completely elevated the kitchen’s appeal. Depending on the material and size of the space, you’re looking at anywhere from $800 to $2,500, and it can easily catch the eye of potential buyers or renters.

My advice? Don’t overlook the small stuff. You don’t always need a full remodel to add value–sometimes a strategic upgrade like a backsplash, a new front door, or fresh paint can go a long way in making your home stand out.

Lior Shaked Lior Shaked CEO, LFM Construction & Remodeling


Repaint Interior and Exterior

One simple home improvement project that can significantly increase a property’s value is a fresh coat of paint, both inside and out. A well-executed paint job can transform a space and make a lasting impression on potential buyers.

In my experience, repainting the exterior of my home and refreshing the interior walls made a noticeable difference in its overall appeal. The project cost around £2,000 for a standard three-bedroom house, including professional labor and quality materials. This relatively modest investment yielded impressive results, potentially adding up to £10,000 to the property’s value, according to some estimates.

The impact of a new paint job goes beyond just aesthetics. It can brighten up spaces, make rooms appear larger, and create a more modern and well-maintained feel throughout the home. For the exterior, it dramatically improves curb appeal, which is crucial for attracting potential buyers or renters.

My advice for others considering a similar project would be to choose colors wisely. Neutral tones tend to have broader appeal and can make spaces feel more spacious. For the exterior, consider colors that complement the neighborhood while still allowing your home to stand out positively.

It’s also worth investing in high-quality paint. While it might cost a bit more upfront, it often lasts longer and provides a better finish. If you’re doing the work yourself, proper preparation is key. Clean surfaces thoroughly, repair any cracks or damages, and use primer where necessary.

Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to give your property a facelift and potentially increase its value.

Remember, while DIY can save money, hiring professionals can ensure a high-quality finish, especially for exterior work or intricate interior details. The investment in professional help can pay off in the final result and potential value added to your home.

Saddat Abid Saddat Abid CEO, Property Saviour


Refresh Entryway for Better First Impression

Refreshing the entryway made a bigger impact than I expected. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, updated hardware, and decluttering the space inside instantly made the home feel more inviting. The cost? Around $250. Buyers form an opinion before they even step inside. One client had a cluttered, dark foyer that felt cramped. After we brightened it up and simplified the layout, their home sold within weeks. First impressions matter; keep your entry clean, bright, and welcoming.

Lauren Hammer Lauren Hammer Founder & Lead Organizer, Revive My Spaces


Repaint Interior for a Fresh Look

One of the simplest yet highly effective home improvement projects I undertook was repainting the interior of my home. This relatively small investment remarkably freshened up the space, making it appear cleaner and more modern, which is a huge plus when you’re considering property value. Not only did it cost me about $300 for paint and supplies, but it also provided a great return when it came to appraisal time.

For those thinking about a similar project, my advice would be to choose neutral colors as they’re mostly appealing to potential buyers if you’re looking to sell in the future. Make sure to prep your walls properly before painting; it can make a significant difference in the finish. This easy upgrade not only boosts your home’s aesthetic appeal but can also be a fun weekend project that might increase your property’s value and enhance your living space!

Alex Cornici Alex Cornici Writer, Cheap Places To Go


Install Subway Tile for Kitchen Upgrade

Transforming my dated kitchen backsplash with modern subway tiles completely elevated my home’s appeal without breaking the bank. Last spring, potential buyers were consistently underwhelmed by my kitchen until I invested a weekend and $350 in materials to install a classic white subway tile backsplash with contrasting charcoal grout – the next open house resulted in multiple offers $15K above my previous showings.

The magic of this upgrade was the dramatic visual impact relative to the modest investment of time and money – no contractor needed, just YouTube tutorials and rental tools from my local hardware store. The entire project cost breakdown included $200 for quality tiles, $50 for grout and adhesive, $75 for specialty tools I didn’t already own, and $25 for finishing touches – a fraction of what professional installation would have cost.

When tackling a similar project, start by choosing a timeless design over trendy patterns that might quickly date your space, and remember that “the kitchen sells the house, but the backsplash sells the kitchen.” Take the time to properly prep surfaces, invest in quality materials where it matters most (like grout that won’t crack), and consider removing the old backsplash completely rather than tiling over existing surfaces for the most professional-looking result.

Joe Hawtin Joe Hawtin Owner, Marin County Visitor


faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Several projects can significantly increase value. Experts in this article highlight updating the kitchen (especially with modern finishes or a new backsplash), and repainting the interior and exterior of your home as highly effective. Even refreshing your entryway can make a big difference.

Yes, repainting both the interior and exterior is considered one of the most cost-effective ways to increase property value. It can significantly improve curb appeal and make the home feel cleaner, larger, and more modern.

While some projects, like installing a backsplash or painting, can be done yourself to save on labor costs, hiring professionals can ensure a higher quality finish, especially for exterior work or intricate details. The decision often depends on your skill level and budget.

Experts recommend choosing neutral tones for interior paint as they appeal to a broader range of potential buyers and can make spaces feel more spacious. For the exterior, select colors that complement the neighborhood while allowing your home to stand out positively.

Focus on neutral colors and timeless materials that will appeal to the most buyers. Consider tackling some of the work yourself to save on labor. For backsplashes, choose a timeless design over trendy patterns and properly prep surfaces for a professional look.

Buyers form an opinion before they even step inside. A clean, bright, and welcoming entryway creates a strong first impression, which can significantly influence a buyer’s perception of the entire home.

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About TJ Rao

TJ Rao’s professional philosophy centers on a results-driven mindset, focused on achieving faster sales, higher returns, and stress-free outcomes for his clients. When it comes to real estate, you want someone who knows the market, understands your goals, and delivers results. That’s where TJ comes in. 

About TJ Rao