5 Budget-Friendly DIY Upgrades That Increase Your Home’s Value

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Improving your home doesn’t have to mean draining your savings.


With a little DIY creativity and strategic spending, even small upgrades can make a big impact, both in your day-to-day enjoyment and also your property’s value.


Here are five home improvements that offer serious bang for your buck.

Couple redecorating - image via Canva

1. Refresh Walls with Paint

A gallon of paint , a free weekend, and a little elbow grease can completely transform your space.


Whether you’re neutralizing bold colors before listing your home or just giving tired walls a lift, fresh paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase appeal and value.

Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines Classic Interior Wall - image via Amazon

Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines Classic Interior Wall, Ceiling, Trim Paint and Primer

2. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

Good lighting makes a space feel larger, warmer, and more modern. Replacing outdated ceiling fans or overheads with modern fixtures can instantly freshen up a room. 

Modern Dimmable White Flush Mount Ceiling Lights - image via Amazon

3. Improve Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, whether you’re looking to impress a guest or a potential buyer.


Trimmed hedges, a freshly painted front door, and some well-placed planters can boost your home’s exterior charm without major landscaping bills.


Even small changes like updating your house numbers or mailbox can go a long way too.

Worth Garden Large 28 Inch Tall Planters Set of 2 - image via Amazon

Modern Deco House Number Sign

4. Modernize Your Kitchen 

Even relatively small upgrades can make a big difference to your kitchen space.


Consider painting cabinets, swapping out drawer pulls, or replacing outdated light fixtures. Even a new faucet or backsplash can make the space feel updated and intentional.

FORIOUS Gold Kitchen Faucet - image via Amazon

5. Add Smart Storage

Clutter-free homes always show better, whether you're living in them or thinking of selling.


Maximize existing space with floating shelves, permanent closet systems, or built-in storage benches. These types of updates are both functional and attractive to future buyers.

Avana Rustic Fireplace Mantle Floating Shelf - image via Amazon

Planning a Bigger Project? Here’s a Thought

If your to-do list includes larger upgrades, like redoing a bathroom or building that dream deck, it may require more upfront funding than your savings can cover. One option some homeowners are exploring is using their home equity to finance improvements.


Hometap’s Home Equity Investment offers a flexible, homeowner-friendly way to tap into your home’s value, without selling or taking on monthly payments.


Hometap provides a lump-sum cash investment with no income requirements or monthly obligations. The investment is then settled anytime within 10 years. 


Many homeowners are already using Hometap to fund dream DIY projects, home renovations, as well as other major life goals — all while retaining full ownership and control of their home.   

Family doing a renovation project - image via Canva

Final Thoughts

Whether you're rolling up your sleeves for a quick weekend project or planning something more ambitious, every upgrade is a step toward a more valuable, comfortable home. 


With a little creativity and smart planning, including knowing when to explore financing options like Hometap, you can make meaningful progress without ever stretching your budget too thin.

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