Selling a house can be incredibly stressful. Homeowners want a place that shows well but don’t always have tons of money to spend on a home improvements. Luckily, there are many inexpensive changes that will increase your home’s value to help you achieve a top-dollar sale.

Declutter and Clean

Decluttering not only alleviates the frustration of not being able to find what you need but can also increase a home’s value. Buyers have a hard time seeing past clutter and aren’t able to picture themselves living in a home that’s full of someone else’s personal items.

Cabinets and closets that are crammed with stuff give the perception that there isn’t enough storage, while clean and organized spaces create blank canvases that prospective home-buyers can turn into their own masterpieces. Even if you have to put things in storage for a short while, it will pay off when the right buyer is able to picture him/herself living in the house.

Paint

A new coat of paint is one of the cheapest home improvements available, and it packs a big punch in the home value department. Paint can turn a dark, dingy space into an inviting retreat. Paint can also make old baseboards and trim seem brand new. Choose warm, neutral colors that won’t conflict with a potential buyer’s ideas for a room.

Creamy whites, muted beiges, and light grays are all good choices for living spaces. Brighter colors work well in kitchens or as accent walls in bedrooms or bathrooms. Remember to choose colors and textures that appeal to the masses instead of your own personal favorites.

Kitchens and Bathrooms Drive Home Sales

Any real estate expert will tell you that kitchens and bathrooms are what make or break a successful home sale. These are also some of the most costly rooms to renovate, but there are several upgrades that can increase home value without breaking the bank.

New fixtures and cabinet hardware are cheap and easy DIY fixes that can give a dated kitchen or bath new life. Painting or staining cabinet doors is another way to bring an older home into the modern era. Older linoleum or vinyl flooring can be covered with inexpensive vinyl tiles that often look as good as ceramic tile. Home improvement centers also stock affordable vanities or pedestal sinks that can be easily installed with a bit of elbow grease. For a few hundred dollars, these upgrades can make a kitchen or bathroom seem brand new – and add thousands onto your selling price.

Curb Appeal

When working to increase a home’s value, don’t forget that curb appeal is the first impression buyers see. A well-kept yard or outdoor space shows that the home is well cared for while a neglected yard gives the impression that homeowners might not have kept up with other required maintenance.

Keep grass and plants trimmed and weed-free. Add a few planters or beds with colorful flowers, and make sure porches and windows are clean. This allows buyers to see the beauty of the house instead of cobwebs and clutter.

Selling a home can certainly be a rollercoaster ride, but getting top dollar can make the process less painful. By taking advantage of these inexpensive changes, sellers can increase a home’s value and keep more money in their pockets for their next adventure.

Kim Parr is a writer and landlord who shares her real estate adventures at Eyes on the Dollar.