These Simple DIY Projects Are Budget Friendly but Increase Your Home's Value
Adding value to your home doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With a little creativity, some basic tools, and a free weekend or two, you can tackle projects that make a big impact. Here are 20 budget-friendly DIY projects that will increase your home’s value and make it feel like new.
Paint Your Front Door
A bold new color can make your home look inviting. It’s one of the cheapest upgrades with the biggest curb appeal payback. Choose a weather-resistant paint, grab a weekend, and watch your entryway impress your guests before they even step inside.
Update Cabinet Hardware
Swapping out old knobs and pulls for new ones is like giving your kitchen or bathroom a mini-makeover. It’s inexpensive, easy to do, and makes the whole space feel fresh without replacing a single cabinet. And guess what? You don’t need power tools for this glow-up.
Add a Backsplash
A peel-and-stick backsplash can turn a plain kitchen into a stylish showstopper in a few hours. No grout, no mess, just instant character. Choose a pattern or color that matches your counters, and your whole kitchen will feel custom without the custom price tag.
Install Smart Thermostats
Smart Thermostats look cool, save energy, and impress buyers who love tech. Installing one is surprisingly easy and will cut your utility bills over time. It’s a win-win: lower bills for you now, and a modern touch that will make your home feel high-end to buyers later.
Refresh Your Landscaping
Trim the bushes, edge the lawn, and add some colorful flowers or shrubs. Simple landscaping upgrades can make a big impact on curb appeal and make your home look well-taken care of. Even a small investment in plants and mulch can turn your yard into an outdoor oasis.
Power Wash Exterior Surfaces
Sometimes, your home doesn’t need paint; it just needs a bath. Power washing driveways, decks, siding, and walkways can make everything look years younger. Rent a machine for the weekend, and you’ll be amazed at the instant “new house” feel it creates.
Replace Light Fixtures
Old lighting sucks the style out of a room. A new chandelier, pendant, or sconce can make the space instantly better. Look for clearance or thrifted finds for budget-friendly upgrades, and make sure to choose warm bulbs to create that cozy glow.
Add Crown Molding
Crown molding adds architectural interest that makes a space feel more refined. With pre-cut, lightweight options, it’s easier to DIY than you think. A fresh coat of paint and some measuring will give your room a subtle but big, high-end look.
Install Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are practical and pretty, with extra storage and display space. Perfect for kitchens, living rooms, or even bathrooms, they’re a weekend project that makes a room look intentional without crowding the space with big furniture.
Paint an Accent Wall
An accent wall adds personality without overwhelming the whole room. Go bold with a deep colour or try textured paint for interest. It’s an easy way to update for under $50, and you can change it again when you change your mind.
Seal Driveway Cracks
A cracked driveway looks neglected. Sealing those cracks not only looks better, but also prevents costly repairs later. With a few supplies and an afternoon, you can extend your driveway’s life and keep it looking smooth and maintained.
Upgrade Bathroom Mirrors
Framing out a plain builder-grade mirror or replacing it with a thrifted statement piece can totally refresh a bathroom. It’s a low-cost, high-impact change that makes it look custom. It looks even cooler if you add matching light fixtures for a whole room upgrade.
Add a Fire Pit Area
A DIY fire pit creates a cozy hangout spot that adds enjoyment and resale value. You can build one with cheap pavers and gravel, and surround it with budget-friendly seating. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes buyers imagine themselves living there.
Recaulk Sinks and Tubs
Old, cracked caulk makes even clean bathrooms look dirty. New caulk is cheap, easy to apply, and instantly makes kitchens and baths look maintained. Choose mold-resistant varieties to keep it looking fresh longer. It’s a small detail with a big impact.
Install a Statement House Number
Big, modern house numbers boost curb appeal and make your home easier to find. It’s a small detail that says “This house is loved”. Choose a style that matches your exterior for a cohesive look and enjoy the compliments from your neighbors.
Build a Raised Garden Bed
Raised beds look neat, make gardening easier, and can be built with cheap wood. Whether you plant flowers or veggies, it’s a great way to add charm and functionality to your yard.
Upgrade Interior Doors
Replace hollow, old doors with solid-core or panelled ones, and your home will instantly feel better. Or just paint and add stylish knobs, and they’ll get a new lease of life. Interior doors are often overlooked, but they contribute more to the feel of your home than you realize.
Replace Switch Plates
Yellowed or cracked switch plates are a room killer. Replacing them with new ones takes minutes and is cheap. For extra style, try decorative plates that match your room’s theme. It’s a small touch that makes your space feel thought out.
Add Outdoor Lighting
String lights, solar path markers, or wall sconces can make your home’s exterior magical at night. Good lighting also makes your home more secure, which buyers love. You don’t have to wire anything complicated, as solar and battery-powered options make this a weekend project.
Organize the Garage
A clean garage is a big plus for buyers. Install shelves, hooks, or pegboards to get tools and gear off the floor. Even if you’re not selling, it makes daily life easier. And yes, you might just find that missing hammer in the process.
