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These DIY Upgrades Can Actually Increase Your Home’s Value
Want More Value From Your Home? Start Here.
Not every project adds value — especially when you DIY. But the right approach can pay off. These are the DIY upgrades that add home value, improve how your home looks and feels, and even boost market performance.
These aren’t Pinterest distractions. These are practical, high-ROI DIY upgrades that add real-world value — whether you’re planning to sell or just want to live smarter.
1. Upgrade Your Lighting for a Big Impact
Why it adds value: Better lighting makes a home feel larger, cleaner, and more expensive.
Start with high-visibility areas:
- Replace builder-grade lights in entryways and hallways
- Add dimmers in living spaces
- Use daylight LEDs in kitchens and baths
Want to do it yourself?
How to Install a Light Fixture →
Our Lighting Picks:
Modern Ceiling Fan With Light – Low-profile, high-lumen, perfect for upgrading older fixtures
Modern LED Ceiling Light 3-Light – Its modern design will add a stylish touch to any home decor
2. Repaint Walls With Buyer-Friendly Neutrals
Why it adds value: Clean, neutral walls make your home feel move-in ready — a huge selling point.
Stick to:
- Greige (gray-beige hybrids)
- Soft whites or off-whites
- Warm taupes or tans in common spaces
How to Paint a Room Like a Pro →
Need a brush upgrade?
Angled Sash Brush 2-Pack – Perfect for corners and baseboards
3. Add a Tile Backsplash in the Kitchen
Why it adds value: Backsplashes are a visual cue for quality kitchens — and kitchens sell homes.
Choose timeless styles like:
- White subway tile
- Hex tile or stone-look peel-and-stick
- Glass mosaics in light colors
Need help?
How to Install a Tile Backsplash →
Our Easy Upgrade Pick:
Peel-and-Stick Subway Tile Kit – Ideal for first-timers, no grout required
4. Swap Outdated Hardware (Cabinets + Doors)
Why it adds value: Hardware sets the tone. Dated knobs can drag the whole room down.
What to upgrade:
- Kitchen cabinet pulls and handles
- Bathroom vanity knobs
- Interior door knobs and hinges
💡 Tip: Stick to one finish throughout the home (matte black, brushed nickel, etc.)
Revamp Kitchen Cabinets on a Budget →
Affiliate Pick:
Matte Black Cabinet Handle Set (25-pack)
5. Fix the Details: Caulking, Trim, and Patching
Why it adds value: Clean lines = a well-maintained home. Buyers notice.
Here’s what to check:
- Caulking around sinks, tubs, and backsplashes
- Cracks or nail pops in drywall
- Dinged-up baseboards or corners
You can fix these in a day.
How to Patch Nail Pops + Cracks →
Helpful Tools:
6. Boost Curb Appeal With Weekend Landscaping
Why it adds value: First impressions matter — and landscaping is one of the highest-ROI improvements.
Easy projects that pay off:
- Fresh mulch
- Trimmed bushes
- Container plants by the entry
- A crisp lawn edge
💡 Quick win: Upgrade the porch light and house numbers while you’re out front.
Outdoor Picks:
7. Start a Real Tool Setup (It’ll Pay for Itself)
Why it adds value: You’ll tackle more projects the right way — and stop wasting money on one-off solutions.
Bare minimum:
- Cordless drill
- Stud finder
- Caulking gun
- Utility knife
- Level
- Sanding sponge
- Shop vac
Tools Every Homeowner Actually Uses →
Looking for your next weekend win? This list of 7 easy diy projects to knock out in a weekend (no experience needed) is full of simple ideas that pay off.
Final Word: DIY With Long-Term Payoff
If you’re only chasing trends, you might end up wasting time. But if you’re strategic? A few smart weekend upgrades can make your home more livable today and more valuable tomorrow.
📍 Want project-by-project help?
Explore our full collection of DIY Step-by-Step Guides →
This list of 10 diy projects that make your home look way more expensive (without spending a fortune) is full of simple ideas that pay off.
