Whether it's moving from a resale home to a new-build, upgrading to a new home for a growing family, or downsizing in retirement, selling a home is part of the new-home journey for many.
If you’re selling your home, first impressions are everything, so you want your home in tip-top shape before you list it.
You don’t need a full remodel; just a few smart, low-cost upgrades can boost appeal and value, getting you top dollar and a quick sale.
1. Redo Paint in Neutrals
A fresh coat of paint is an instant refresh in just about every room. Stick with neutral colors, such as soft grays, whites, or beiges for a bright, clean, buyer-friendly look.
“A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest, quickest and most cost-effective ways to refresh your home,” said Hannah Yeo, senior manager of Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore. “If you’re in a tight budget, start with small changes that can have maximum impact.”
“My favorite method to give a room a completely new look without a ton of money or effort is paint,” said Amanda Hendrix, creator of Love and Renovations. “Paint is cheap, relatively speaking, and it’s so easy to change up.”
Pro tip: Focus on entryways and living areas.
2. Update Lighting
New fixtures and warm bulbs can totally change the vibe of a room. You have your choice of lighting styles, from minimalist to traditional to industrial. Think about what might appeal to buyers and aim for cohesion with other fixtures and accessories.
“Don’t overlook lighting as it can have a major impact on the overall atmosphere,” Yeo said. “Add warm lighting for a cozy feel, or swap in bright white bulbs for a clean, modern effect.”
“Add some soft accent lighting (think lamps everywhere!) and cozy textures, and you’ve got an instantly warm and inviting home,” Hendrix said.
Pro tip: Use statement pieces to light up kitchens or dining rooms.
3. Rearrange Furniture
Sometimes, less is more. Clear pathways for visual clarity, show off square footage, and define each room's purpose to decide what goes where.
“Start by thinking about the mood you want to evoke, and then evaluate which existing piece support that vibe,” Yeo said. “Try rearranging furniture to create new focal points,”
Pro tip: Remove oversized or extra pieces.
4. Accessorize Wisely and Tastefully
While your home should reflect you and your family’s personalities while you live in it, when it’s time to sell, home stagers will often advise you to remove personal touches. Prospective new owners want to visualize themselves in the home, not you.
“Keep the backdrop in adaptable shades and materials, like off-whites, pale neutrals and light wood tones,” Yeo said. “Layer in smaller, interchangeable elements to stay current.”
Replace or refresh your pillows, curtains, and rugs for an easy way to make a room look new and clean. Stick to a neutral palette with light pops of color to maximize appeal.
“Stick to the smaller accents – things like throw pillows, candles, vases, and smaller décor pieces,” Hendrix said. “Don’t ever try to add a trend to your home.”
Pro tip: Check discount stores or online deals to save money.
5. Boost Curb Appeal
The first impression of your home starts at your front door. Hit the yard: trim shrubs, plant flowers, mow the lawn, and edge the curb. Clean up or repaint the mailbox and remove personal flags or affects. Finish by throwing down a fresh doormat and putting a lush potted plant (real or fake!) by the door.
“Never, ever underestimate the power of a good plant,” Hendrix said. “Real or faux, doesn’t matter. Greenery goes a long way.”
Pro tip: Power wash your front door and windows, as well as the driveway and sidewalks; add solar path lights for nighttime charm.
6. Swap Fixtures
Updating cabinet and drawer fixtures is a simple, easy upgrade that can make a big impact on the visual appeal of your home. New knobs and pulls modernize kitchens and bathrooms, and can look luxurious for low cost (and low time commitment).
“Swapping out the builder-grade mirror and vanity lighting can make a giant impact, and you can do each of those for under $100 if you’re on a budget,” said Hendrix.
Pro tip: Match finishes throughout the home for a polished look; consider chrome and brass for a modern touch.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need a big budget to make a big impact. With a little vision, planning, and cleaning, you can give your home considerable appeal without breaking the bank.
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James Klingele
James Klingele holds a Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Innovation from Texas State University. He is a digital media specialist and content creator with a passion for storytelling in both print and digital formats. His work has included covering high-profile events like SXSW, where he contributed to content creation for global audiences. He has been a content specialist for NewHomeSource since 2024.