7 Cheap Remodel Ideas That Can Boost Your Home's Resale Value

a sage green bedroom with sage green panelled walls, a green velvet bed and huge vintage floral artwork on the walls — Featured Partner Post

Do you want to make more money when selling your home? Cheap remodel ideas can increase its resale value, leaving you with more money in your pocket. By investing in strategic upgrades, you can attract more buyers and potentially secure higher offers.

Increasing your home’s resale value makes you stand out in a competitive market, meaning you can better recoup renovation costs and make a profit.

In this article, we will explore the top seven cost-effective renovations that boost resale value. From improving curb appeal to upgrading the kitchen and bathroom, these renovations offer a high return on investment.

Get ready to transform your home into a buyer’s dream, maximize your selling potential, and find out how to renovate a house on a budget.

7 Cheap Remodel Ideas

Table of Contents

1. Curb Appeal Enhancements

Top REALTORS® like Yegrealestate know how crucial curb is in catching the eye of potential buyers.

It creates a lasting first impression that can make or break a sale. Luckily, there are cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal:

Freshen up the exterior paint: A fresh coat of paint can instantly revive the look of your home. Choose colors that complement the neighborhood and make your property stand out.
Landscaping improvements: Well-maintained landscaping affects a buyer’s perception of your property. Trim overgrown shrubs and mow your lawn! Remember to keep the pathways clear.
Upgrade the front door and/or hardware: The front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior. Upgrade to create a welcoming entrance. Enhance your door hardware, such as handles and locks. This gives a modern touch that adds value to your home and a brilliant cheap remodel idea.
Low-maintenance Plants: They require minimal attention but can provide year-round beauty. Shrubs like Boxwoods, Yuccas, and Junipers are hardy and require little pruning.

2. Kitchen Upgrades

A modern, functional kitchen attracts buyers. To enhance your kitchen on a budget when selling your home, consider these cost-effective renovation upgrades:

Refinishing or repainting cabinets: A fresh coat of paint or stain transforms cabinets.
Replacing outdated countertops: Modernize your kitchen with options like quartz or granite.
Upgrading kitchen appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances to appeal to buyers.

Consider additional minor kitchen cheap remodel ideas like:

Installing hardwood floors
Updating light fixtures
Changing the hardware such as handles and adding shelves for storage

3. Bathroom Updates

A well-maintained and updated bathroom holds great significance for future buyers. It is a space where they seek comfort and functionality and you don’t need to undertake a full remodel to elevate its appearance.

Here are some cheap remodel ideas and spruce ups:

Deep Cleaning:

Tiles and Grout: Dirt and mold can accumulate over time, making tiles and grout lines look old and unkempt. Use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub grout lines. For tiles, an all-purpose cleaner will do the trick.
Fixtures: Regular cleaning, possibly with a limescale remover, can make fixtures gleam like new.
Glass: Clean shower doors with vinegar or a specialized glass cleaner to remove water spots and soap scum.

Re-caulking:

Old, moldy, or cracked caulk can make a bathroom look aged. By removing the old caulk and reapplying a fresh layer around the tub, sink, and toilet, you’ll give the bathroom a refreshed appearance.

Replace Old Fixtures:

Faucets, showerheads, and handles can be replaced with modern designs. This not only enhances the look but can also improve water efficiency, especially if you opt for water-saving models.

Upgrade Mirrors:

Replace the old mirror with a framed or stylishly shaped one.
Alternatively, you can DIY frame your existing mirror with molding, adding a touch of elegance without buying a new one.

Add Storage Solutions:

Floating Shelves: Ideal for displaying decorative items or for holding everyday essentials.
Over-the-toilet Cabinets: A great way to use vertical space for storage.
Hooks and Racks: These can be used for towels, robes, and other essentials, helping declutter the space.

Update Lighting:

Consider installing sconces or updating the vanity light. Proper lighting can make a bathroom appear larger and more inviting.
Use LED lights for better energy efficiency and clarity.

If you are going to give your bathroom a lick of paint, opt for neutral colors and sleek designs to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Remember to choose paints that are resistant to mold and mildew, especially designed for bathrooms.

4. Energy-Efficient Improvements

a man installing insulation in the loft — Insulation in your loft is one of the best energy-efficient upgrades for your home

Energy-efficient homes are gaining popularity. Why? Because of their long-term cost savings and environmental benefits. Cost-effective energy-efficient upgrades attract potential buyers and contribute to a greener lifestyle.

Consider the following smart home upgrades:

Installing LED lighting. LED lights consume significantly less energy. They have longer lifespans compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This affordable upgrade can help reduce electricity costs and create a more eco-friendly home.
Upgrading insulation. Proper insulation maintains a comfortable temperature inside the home. Thereby reducing energy consumption for both heating and cooling. Adding or improving insulation enhances energy efficiency. Thus making the home appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.
Adding programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats allow homeowners to set specific temperature schedules, optimizing energy usage. This energy-efficient upgrade offers convenience and potential energy savings. They automatically adjust temperatures when occupants are away or asleep. Or when you’re too busy working in your home office!

These cost-effective energy-efficient upgrades provide long-term financial and environmental benefits. Embrace the rising trend of energy-efficient homes. Align with buyers’ desires for sustainability and efficiency.

5. Space Conversions

Maximizing usable space is crucial when it comes to increasing the sale price of your home and attracting prospective buyers.

Consider these cost-effective renovations and conversions:

Converting an unused basement into a living area

Transforming a basement into a living space increases your home’s value. It can serve as an additional family room, home office, or even a rental unit. Ensure there is proper lighting, insulation, and ventilation to create a comfortable and inviting space.

Transforming an attic into a bedroom or office

Converting an attic into a bedroom or office adds valuable square footage to your home. Ensure proper insulation, flooring, and access.

This is to make the space usable and comfortable. This versatile conversion caters to the various needs of prospective buyers.

6. Focus on Flooring

Flooring plays a foundational role in the overall look and feel of any room. When it comes to carpets, their condition can greatly influence the impression a space conveys.

Whether you’re prepping for selling your home or simply looking for a refresh, here’s how you can enhance your interiors by focusing on carpeted floors:

Deep Cleaning Carpets

Regular Vacuuming: This is the first line of defense against dirt, dust, and allergens. A thorough vacuum at least once a week can maintain the carpet’s appearance.
Steam Cleaning: Rent or invest in a steam cleaner to deep clean your carpets. This process can remove deep-seated dirt, stains, and even bacteria, giving carpets a refreshed look.
Spot Cleaning: Attend to spills and stains immediately. Use carpet-friendly cleaners and follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent damage.
Hire Professionals: If your carpet has stubborn stains or hasn’t been cleaned in a while, it might be worth getting a professional cleaning service. They have specialized equipment and detergents that can rejuvenate aged or heavily stained carpets.

Repair Minor Damages:

Burns or Melts: Small burns from cigarettes or irons can often be repaired by carefully trimming the burnt fibers, and then using glue to embed similar fibers extracted from a hidden area or a remnant piece.
Loose Ends: Clip sprouting or loose threads, never pull them. For larger frayed areas, consider professional repair.
Stretched Carpets: Over time, carpets can become loose or bubbled. A professional can restretch it for a tighter fit.

Use Area Rugs or Runners:

If there are areas of the carpet that are more worn out or stained and you don’t want to replace the entire carpet, consider strategically placing area rugs or runners.

Replacing Carpets:

Assess the Underpad: A quality underpad can extend the lifespan of your carpet and enhance its feel. If you’re replacing the carpet, ensure the underpad is in good condition, or consider replacing it as well.
Material Selection: Carpets come in a variety of materials, from nylon to wool. Each has its own benefits in terms of durability, feel, and price.
Color and Pattern: Choose colors that are more resistant to visible stains, such as muted tones or speckled patterns. Remember, while lighter carpets can make a room feel larger and brighter, they might show stains more easily. Darker tones can add warmth and are more forgiving in high-traffic areas.
Professional Installation: For the best results and longevity, opt for professional carpet installation.

7. Create an Outdoor Living Space

Creating an appealing outdoor space can significantly enhance the resale value of your home.

Buyers often look for outdoor areas where they can entertain, relax, and enjoy the outdoors, so putting some effort into landscaping and creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space can pay off.

Some quick and simple ideas to create an outdoor space include:

Maintain a green and healthy lawn. Add a mix of perennial and annual flowers, shrubs, and trees. Choose plants that are appropriate for your climate and soil type.
If you don’t already have one, consider adding a patio or deck. Use high-quality materials that match the style of your home.
Depending on your budget, an outdoor kitchen can range from a simple grill station to a full kitchen with a sink, fridge, and stovetop. These are becoming increasingly popular.
A gathering point, such as a fire pit, can be a hit in many climates, especially on chilly evenings.
Invest in high-quality, durable outdoor furniture. Consider pieces that are weather-resistant and easy to maintain.
A well-placed fountain, koi pond, or small waterfall can add a touch of luxury. Ensure it’s well-maintained and not a safety hazard.
Add outdoor lighting to illuminate pathways, seating areas, and other features. Solar-powered lights can be an eco-friendly choice.
Finally, a good fence can provide privacy and security. Choose materials and styles that complement your home.

Ready to Attract the Potential Homebuyer?

These seven cost-effective renovations transform your home and boost its resale value. By focusing on the key areas that potential buyers look for, you can make a big impact without breaking the bank.

So go ahead and invest in these upgrades, and watch as your home becomes a hot property on the market. Get ready to sell your home with confidence and maximize your return on investment!

7 Cheap Remodel Ideas That Can Boost Your Home’s Resale Value