Small Home Improvements with Big Impact on Property Value

If one is considering home improvements to increase property value, it's natural to think of large-scale renovations like kitchen and bathroom upgrades. However, some designers urge homeowners not to overlook smaller tasks that can notably amplify your home's selling price.

Expert designers believe that even a small thing like a fresh coat of paint can be among the most effective tools to boost your property's value. Hannah Griffiths, founder of interior design firm Studio Palindrome, suggests revamping old walls, doors, and cupboards with trendy, fresh colors. Restoring your space with a new color scheme is an easy, budget-friendly way to change the atmosphere of your home and raise its value.

Another proponent of the paint tactic is Lauren Saab, founder of the design firm Saab Studios. Instead of trying to repaint the entire house, she recommends focusing on removing visible blemishes. Quick touch-up jobs around entryways, corridors, and trim can make a house feel much cleaner and better maintained.

Another trick to increase your home’s value lies in your light fixtures. Many houses feature fixtures that haven't been updated in decades, a detail which can negatively impact the market value. It is an easy task to replace old fixtures with warm LED bulbs for an immediate mood uplift, says Saab. Features like a new lampshade or a plug-in dimmer can refresh a room's ambiance and increase its value.

To Griffiths, crafting multiple layers of lighting throughout your home is the "secret weapon of high-end design.” She suggests adding modern, fashionable fixtures for an "architectural-level refresh". And adding dimmers can instantly endow your home with an upmarket feel, without an extravagant price tag.

No upscaling list would be complete without mentioning hardware updates. Simple changes like replacing old cabinet knobs and handles in your kitchen and bathroom, or updating faucets, can transform the space without significant investment. Griffiths proposes that an upgrade in hardware can make your house feel completely custom-built in no time.

The addition of new curtains and rugs may not come with the house when sold, but according to Griffiths, they can add a sense of luxury, aiding in creating a high-value impression.

Finally, the first impression counts. After attending to the interior, ensure your home screams 'welcome' from the first step. Repainting the front door and placing a pair of attractive pots either side can significantly increase your home’s curb appeal.