Chances are, you have a list of projects you’d like to get done around the house. The items on that seemingly never-ending list might range from small – finally organizing that overstuffed closet – to large – remodeling an outdated kitchen. If you’re handy and don’t mind investing a little sweat equity into your home, you can cross off items on that list for far less cost by doing them yourself.
In fact, do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvements are on the rise – 75% of homeowners attempted some type of DIY project last year. The number one reason cited (62%) was to save money, but over half of homeowners surveyed said they enjoyed tackling projects on their own and learning a new skill – 43% said they used YouTube as a source of information for their project. (You can learn how to do almost anything on the internet!)
Of course, some do-it-yourself (DIY) projects add more value to your home than others. If you’re planning on listing your home in the near future, consider tackling the projects that provide the best return on your investment (ROI). According to real estate experts and home buyer surveys, these five DIY projects fit the bill:
1. Paint the kitchen cabinets and replace hardware.
You’ve probably heard that kitchen remodels add significant value to your home – you can expect to recoup between 60% and 80% of your investment – but a complete remodel is an expensive proposition. The national average cost to remodel a kitchen is about $26,268. But don’t despair if a full remodel is not in the budget – minor kitchen improvements have an average 81,1% recoup value.
For the best ROI, consider painting the cabinets and replacing the hardware and faucet. Painting is a great solution if your cabinets are solid and in good condition (not cracked or warped), but simply outdated. While painting is not particularly difficult, the prep work takes time and a little muscle. Cabinet doors and drawers should be removed, and the surfaces must be cleaned and sanded before painting. Be sure to use a primer and paint made especially for cabinets to ensure durability. Experts suggest doing some research and watching a few “how to” videos before you start.
It’s amazing what a little paint can do! For under $1,000 (including primer, paint, new hardware, and faucet replacement), you can give your kitchen a major facelift.
Refreshing outdated cabinets with a fresh coat of paint can make the space feel brighter and more modern without the cost of a full remodel.
Image credit: Kelsey Renee Photography
2. Freshen up the walls.
Speaking of paint, freshening up interior walls can make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Research shows that homes painted in neutral tones can sell for an extra $5,000 more than expected! First impressions matter. Most buyers want move-in ready homes and are willing to pay more for homes in great condition. Chipped, faded, or marred paint, as well as dark and bright colors can be a major turnoff. It’s also easier for potential buyers to envision the space with their own belongings if you create a “blank canvas.”
“It’s the least expensive investment for the biggest return,” says Jennie Norris, chairwoman of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals. “Painting the interior can result in a 107% return on investment.”
Of course, neutral doesn’t have to be boring. There are many lovely “neutral” colors that can make a space feel inviting. A survey by Zillow found that not only can a fresh coat of paint increase incoming offers on your home, but certain colors make more impact. For bathrooms, light blue was the most popular color, while white and off-white was viewed as more attractive in kitchens. In the living room, soft gray walls resulted in the best reviews.
Light blue was cited by potential buyers as the best color for bathrooms.
Image credit: Behr
3. Brighten up the bathroom.
Even if light blue is not your color, you can give your bathroom a mini makeover with a few easy projects. In addition to a fresh coat of paint, you may want to consider replacing an old vanity and vanity top. These days, you can find affordable, ready-to-install vanities and granite tops at major home centers, such as Home Depot and Lowes. Prices range from $150 to $450 depending on the size and are surprisingly easy to install.
According to the Cost vs. Value Report, bathroom remodels can recoup 87.7 to 93.5% of your investment. While those numbers represent a full remodel, a few improvements can be just as impactful. Installing a new faucet and re-grouting the bathtub or shower, as well as adding a new mirror and light fixtures can go a long way to attract potential buyers. Other projects to consider include replacing the toilet seat, installing a new showerhead, and updating towel racks.
4. Modernize light fixtures.
At one time, fluorescent lighting was popular, but today there are plenty of updated options that are less harsh and more flattering. The simplest solution is to replace lightbulbs that are burned out or too bright with bulbs labeled “soft warm/warm white.” It’s also a good idea to add lights to areas that are too dark.
“There’s nothing worse than a gloomy room, except maybe one with dated light fixtures,” says Stephanie Orlis, house staging professional. “Adding some stylish lighting to your home can significantly update any room and create a welcoming atmosphere.”
LED or recessed lighting are generally preferred by potential buyers, as well as energy-efficient systems and dimmer switches. Many home décor stores offer affordable options with easy-to-follow installation instructions. Focus on replacing fixtures in the kitchen and bathrooms first to get the best ROI.
Replacing outdated fluorescent lights with recessed lighting and modern fixtures can transform a space and make it more inviting.
Photo credit: Mom Endeavors
5. Create some curb appeal.
Don’t forget about your home’s exterior. Many potential home buyers will pass up a house that looks unappealing on the outside, even if there have been interior renovations. As mentioned, first impressions are important, especially when selling a home. According to a study done by Michigan State University, a home with attractive landscaping and some curb appeal can increase a home’s value by 5 to 11%, and sell a home faster.
Aside from major projects, such as exterior painting, there are plenty of things you can do to improve curb appeal, including:
- Paint your front door. Choose a color that blends with your home’s exterior or add an unexpected pop of color. This is a budget-friendly way to add curb appeal that can be done in just a few hours.
- Weed and mulch your yard. A simple way to spruce up your exterior is to clean out flower beds, remove overgrown bushes and weeds, and put down some mulch.
- Add some exterior/landscape lighting. Illuminating a walkway or adding lights around foundation plantings and doorways can create a welcoming environment.
- Use planted containers to create instant curb appeal. You can make your home’s entryway more inviting by adding a few nicely arranged plants on the front porch. Furniture, rugs, and other decorative touches can also make a big impact.
- Update your mailbox and house numbers. Believe it or not, small touches like this can make a difference. A standard-size mailbox costs about $35 but can add a lot of appeal to the exterior.
- Create an attractive outdoor living space. Now, more than ever, potential buyers are looking for a place to relax and entertain outdoors. A backyard deck adds over $7,000 in resale value on average. If you already have a deck, but it needs some work, consider repairing and staining it for maximum appeal. Adding a firepit and some cozy seating can also entice potential buyers.
A few colorful containers of flowers and plants can create an attractive, welcoming first impression.
Photo credit: Laurie Black
There are many more DIY projects that can spruce up your home and add potential value without breaking your budget (or your back!). It all depends on how much time, energy, and money you’re willing to spend. For instance, adding a home office or repurposing a room into an inviting workspace is popular with today’s buyers, as well as replacing carpeting with wood or laminate flooring. Power washing your home’s exterior can also improve curb appeal.
A good place to start is by taking an honest assessment of your home, room by room, and then around your home’s exterior. Make a list of the things you’d like to improve. Decide which projects on that list you feel comfortable tackling on your own and then create a budget. Finally, rank those projects by ROI and then dive in. You might be surprised by how much you can accomplish on your own!
