Small Home Improvement Projects That Have the Greatest Resale Value

As a homeowner, you know that your dwelling isn’t just a roof over your head—it’s a major investment. If you’re beginning to think about selling your home, now is the time to start tackling small home improvement projects that offer a big bang for the buck.

Whether you’re a renovation novice or the handiest homeowner on the block, here are a few projects anyone can tackle to help increase their home’s resale value.

1. Put on a fresh coat of paint.

A fresh coat of paint is a low-budget way to revive your space, and you don’t need any special skills to do it. The supplies are inexpensive: All you need is paint, a few brushes, and tarps or plastic sheets to protect your flooring. For best results, be sure to prep the room and start with a coat of primer.

When resale is your objective, opt for neutral paint colors that will appeal to a variety of buyers. You may love that deep burgundy or bright neon green, but not everyone shares your taste. When in doubt, crisp white paint is a safe option.

2. Update door and cabinet hardware.

Dated hardware on cabinets or vanities can look messy and unappealing to buyers. Luckily, swapping out your hardware is quick and easy—just be sure to measure your existing cabinet pulls before you head to the hardware store to buy replacements. You don’t want to end up with the wrong size. You may also want to update doorknobs if they look weathered or mismatched.

For a DIY hardware update that’s easy on the wallet, give your existing knobs and pulls a new look with a few coats of spray paint.

3. Declutter your space.

When you’re ready to list your house for sale, spend some time decluttering. You’ll be amazed at the difference a little bit of tidying up can make. By clearing off kitchen counters, organizing closets and freeing up space throughout your house, you’ll help prospective buyers see the home’s potential, instead of getting distracted by the mess.