11 Low-Cost Ways to Increase Home Value on a Budget

Boosting the value of your home doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of cheap ways to increase home value that can make a big impact, without breaking the bank.

Whether you simply want to maintain the value of your Seattle, WA home, or are looking to increase resale value of your home in Alexandria, VA before listing, here are 11 budget-friendly home improvement projects that can boost your home’s value and offer a worthwhile return on investment.

1. Declutter to increase your home’s value 

Decluttering is one of the most inexpensive ways to increase your home’s value. Even if you’re not planning to sell in the near future, maintaining a clutter-free environment is important for long-term benefits.

Focus on key areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and living room, as these are often the primary selling points of a home. Take a systematic approach by tackling one room at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed. 

Sort your belongings into three categories:

1. Items to keep: Belongings you use regularly or truly value.
2. Maybes: Items you’re unsure about and need more time to consider.
3. Donation items: Things you no longer need that are still in good condition.

After a few days, return to the maybe pile with fresh eyes. You’ll often find it easier to make decisions once you’ve created momentum in other areas.

Practical tips to start decluttering your home:

• Establish dedicated areas for children’s and pet toys, make it a habit to return them to their designated spots after use.
• Create a tidy laundry space by clearing countertops and neatly organizing cleaning products. 
• In the bathroom, streamline organization by starting with the countertops and then moving on to linen closets and medicine cabinets..
• Keep kitchen countertops clear and tuck away appliances to create a more spacious feel.
• Organize bookshelves and display cabinets by dusting surfaces, removing unnecessary trinkets, and thoughtfully arranging and styling your books.

2. Deep clean your home

After you’ve decluttered, the next step is to deep clean your home. That means it’s time to wipe and dust every surface, mop, and vacuum carpets and floors. Dig deep into the kitchen, make your bathroom shine, and tidy up your living room. 

Swiftly addressing odors is crucial, as persistent smells — whether from pets, kids, or food — become increasingly challenging to eliminate the longer they linger. Unpleasant odors can leave a lasting negative impression on potential homebuyers when it’s time to list your property.

Decluttering and deep cleaning are cheap ways to add value to your home, and you can tackle them yourself. But if you’d rather not go it alone, bringing in a professional organizer or cleaning service can make the job quicker and less stressful.

3. Paint your home, inside and out

Avoid vibrant or busy colors that have a tendency to divert attention from the home itself. Opting for a neutral color palette when painting the interior of your home is a cost-effective investment that often results in increased home value.

Though exterior painting may cost more, the boost in curb appeal can significantly enhance its overall value. Check for cracks, peeling, or faded paint. If you spot any, a fresh coat is likely due.

Hiring a professional painter can ensure quality results and prevent issues like uneven coverage or poor paint choices.

4. Replace the garage door

Chances are, your garage door has endured considerable wear and tear over the years. While you may overlook dents from various mishaps, potential buyers are likely to notice. Also, check the door sweep – if rain easily penetrates, critters might follow suit, indicating the need for a replacement. According to data from Angi, replacing your roof can increase your home’s value and recoup your investment, with returns averaging between 48% and 57%. 

5. Add manufactured stone veneer

Opting for manufactured stone can seamlessly complement various house styles, adding a touch of richness to the overall appearance. 

If this isn’t your forever home, adding manufactured stone veneer can boost curb appeal, attract buyers, and potentially lead to a faster, higher-priced sale. Its timeless look and durability make it a standout upgrade. According to Zonda’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, installing stone veneer on 300 square feet of your home’s front façade costs around $13,000 and delivers an impressive 153% return on investment.

6. Increase home value by upgrading your kitchen

The kitchen has evolved into a multifunctional space, serving as the heart of the household. Over time, with all the activity and memories, it’s normal to see some wear and tear.

Simple, budget-friendly improvements include repainting cabinets, adding a backsplash, and replacing the sink. You can also opt for eco-friendly options and upgrade to a low-energy microwave, select water-efficient features, and energy-efficient lighting. 

Whatever you pick, the goal is to enhance your overall enjoyment of the space. In fact, upgrading your kitchen now boasts a perfect “joy score” of 10, according to the National Association of Realtors 2025 Remodeling Impact Report. 

7. Pay attention to your yard

First impressions make all the difference, and sprucing up the exterior of your home is just as important as the interior. Here are some easy and cheap ways to increase home value: 

• Repaint or replace your front door for a fresh look that boosts appeal.
• Update exterior lighting to create an inviting entryway or illuminate landscaping features.
• Upgrade your worn fence with materials like wood, vinyl, or wrought iron for increased privacy and property value.
• Opt for a low-maintenance landscape design; consider hiring a professional landscaper for a polished look.
• Keep windows and siding clean with regular professional cleaning to prevent dust, dirt, and grime buildup, avoiding potential issues like paint stripping and mold.

It’s undeniable that maintaining curb appeal serves as an ongoing investment in your living experience and prevents the accumulation of arduous tasks. But when you’re ready to sell, curb appeal also helps bring buyers through the door, sell your home quickly, and can increase the value of your home up to 7%, according to a recent study. 

8. Let the light in

More lighting can bring life into a room, while a poorly lit room can feel small, dark, and cramped. Natural light adds warmth, openness, and a connection to the outdoors.

Thoughtfully placed lighting,  like modern fixtures or layered artificial light, can enhance a home’s ambiance, making spaces more functional and visually appealing. Well-lit rooms often appear more spacious, cleaner, and inviting, creating a positive impression of the property that can ultimately increase its market value.

9. Focus on the bathroom

Bathroom updates are among the cheap ways to increase home value. Because bathrooms play a crucial role in a property’s overall appeal, modernizing them can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Simple yet impactful updates include: 

• Replace outdated fixtures
• Refresh the paint
• Upgrade bathroom hardware
• Install energy-efficient and stylish lighting
• Upgrade to a contemporary vanity
• Invest in quality, low-maintenance flooring
• Consider water-efficient appliances to support sustainability and add value

10. Pay attention to the details

Even the smallest updates have the ability to dramatically improve the appearance of your home. Check out these quick and budget-friendly improvements that can increase home value:

• Updating knobs on kitchen cabinets and doors
• Fix loose wires and leaky faucets
• Add attic insulation
• Wrap up home projects and little repairs
• Replace faceplates and wall switches
• Refinish your hardwood floors
• Regrout floor and shower tile

11. Convert the guest room into a multi-use room 

If you have a spare bedroom, think about turning it into a versatile area that serves both as a bedroom and an office. This dual-purpose setup is ranked as the most popular home trend for good reason. It not only provides a practical and efficient workspace but also offers a convenient and adaptable environment for your guests. 

Increasing your home’s value doesn’t have to be expensive

You don’t need a big budget to boost your home’s value. Simple upgrades like fresh paint, better lighting, and bathroom updates can make a big impact. Projects like enhancing curb appeal or finishing the basement add everyday comfort and long-term value, making your home more enjoyable now—and more appealing to future buyers.