Top 6 DIY Home Improvement Projects to Increase Home Value

For many homeowners, the idea of improving property value brings to mind expensive renovations, contractor estimates, and long timelines. But the truth is, you don’t have to take on a massive remodel or break the bank to add real value to your home. In fact, some of the most effective upgrades are simple, budget-friendly DIY projects that can be completed in a weekend — no demo required.

Whether you're planning to sell your home, just bought your first property, or want to protect your investment for the long haul, DIY home improvements are a smart way to enhance appeal and build equity. The key is choosing upgrades that offer a strong return on investment (ROI), boost functionality, and improve the overall look and feel of your home.

In this guide, we’ll cover six of the top DIY projects that consistently increase home value. Each one is practical, beginner-friendly, and doesn’t require a general contractor. We’ve also included high-converting product suggestions that pair perfectly with each project — so you can take action with confidence and ease.

1. Refresh Interior Paint

Few DIY projects offer as much visual impact and return on investment as a fresh coat of paint. It's affordable, beginner-friendly, and instantly modernizes your space. In fact, according to a 2023 report from HomeLight, freshly painted interiors can add as much as $4,000 to $5,000 to your home's resale value, depending on the market.

Why it adds value:
Buyers associate clean, neutral-colored walls with well-maintained homes. Even if you're not selling soon, updated paint brightens your interior, hides imperfections, and creates a more cohesive aesthetic.

Where to start:

Prioritize high-traffic areas like the living room, entryway, and kitchen.
Use neutral tones such as warm grays, soft whites, or light taupe, which appeal to the widest range of buyers.
For a budget-friendly refresh, paint just the trim, baseboards, and doors to make everything pop.

High-coverage, fast-drying paint ideal for interior walls and trim
Available in multiple finishes and easy to apply, even for beginners

2. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

Lighting plays a crucial role in how your home looks and feels. Old, outdated fixtures can make a space feel dull, while new lighting immediately elevates the room's ambiance. Replacing lighting is one of the easiest DIY projects you can tackle, and it can dramatically improve both appearance and functionality.

Why it adds value:
Modern, energy-efficient fixtures are attractive to buyers and can make even older homes feel more contemporary. Improved lighting also makes rooms appear larger, brighter, and cleaner, all of which influence perceived value.

Where to start:

Replace builder-grade flush mounts ("boob lights") with statement chandeliers or semi-flush lighting.
Update bathroom vanity lights and pendant lights in the kitchen.
Install dimmer switches to give rooms flexible lighting options for different times of day.

Sleek, transitional design works with most home styles
Easy to install and makes a noticeable upgrade in any room

Phillips LED Frosted A19 Dimmable Lights (8 Pack)

Energy-saving and long-lasting bulbs with a soft, warm glow
Ideal for replacing all the bulbs in your upgraded fixtures

3. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything. Whether you're selling or not, your home’s exterior sets the tone for its overall value. Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to mean new siding or landscaping crews — a few simple DIY upgrades can make a huge difference.

Why it adds value:
Homes with strong curb appeal tend to sell faster and for more money. According to the National Association of Realtors, exterior improvements like fresh landscaping and clean entryways offer some of the highest returns on investment.

Where to start:

Repaint or replace your front door — bold colors like navy, red, or matte black are on trend.
Install new house numbers, a modern mailbox, or updated door hardware.
Refresh landscaping by trimming shrubs, adding mulch, and planting seasonal flowers in beds or pots.
Pressure wash the driveway, porch, and siding to remove years of dirt and mildew.

Recommended product:
WORX WG620 Hydroshot Portable Power Cleaner

Cordless, battery-powered pressure washer perfect for outdoor cleaning
Lightweight and highly portable — ideal for patios, porches, and siding

4. Create or Update Storage Solutions

Smart storage isn’t just practical — it’s valuable. Buyers love homes that feel organized, functional, and ready to move into. Improving storage space is a low-cost, high-impact project that doesn’t require adding square footage.

Why it adds value:
Maximizing storage can make your home feel bigger and more usable. From closets and pantries to garages and laundry rooms, efficient storage can improve your daily life while also appealing to future buyers.

Where to start:

Install closet organizers to make bedroom storage more functional.
Add open shelving or a pegboard system in the garage or utility room.
Build a mudroom-style entryway using hooks, cubbies, or a bench for coats and shoes.
Use pull-out shelves or lazy Susans in kitchen cabinets to make storage more efficient.

Recommended product:
Rubbermaid Configurations Closet Kit

Fully adjustable and customizable closet organizer system
Easy to install with no cutting required, fits most closet spaces

5. Revamp the Bathroom Without Renovating

You don’t need to gut your bathroom to make it feel new. Small updates — like new hardware, caulk, or paint — can breathe fresh life into the space. Since bathrooms are high on buyers' priority lists, a minor refresh can offer serious value.

Why it adds value:
Even a modest bathroom update can yield a 60–70% return on investment, according to Remodeling Magazine. Buyers love bathrooms that feel fresh, clean, and functional — not dated or dingy.

Where to start:

Replace old faucets, towel bars, and cabinet hardware with sleek, modern options.
Re-caulk around the tub, sink, and toilet to make the bathroom feel new and hygienic.
Add a new mirror, vanity light, or shower curtain to change the look without demolition.
If the vanity is in good shape, paint it or update the knobs for a modern refresh.

Recommended product:
KRAUS Oletto Single Handle Kitchen Faucet

Sleek, modern style with excellent water pressure and easy install
Ideal for bathroom vanities looking for a quick aesthetic boost

6. Add a Functional Home Office Space

Remote and hybrid work are here to stay, and buyers increasingly expect homes to support modern work lifestyles. If you don’t already have a dedicated workspace, creating one is an excellent DIY project — especially for homeowners with extra bedrooms or finished basements.

Why it adds value:
According to real estate agents across the country, a dedicated home office space can increase listing interest by 10–15%. Buyers love flexible areas that can serve as an office, guest room, or study space.

Where to start:

Convert an unused room, large closet, or loft into a simple office.
Add a desk, chair, shelves, and strong lighting to make it functional.
Use room dividers or bookshelves to separate a workspace in an open-concept home.
Stage the area with neutral decor to appeal to a wide audience if you plan to sell.

Recommended product:
CubiCubi Small Computer Desk with Storage

Compact, modern, and practical for small spaces
Includes side storage and clean design ideal for home staging or use

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Think Big

You don’t need a massive budget or contractor crew to add real value to your home. With the right planning and a few weekends of work, DIY home improvement projects can dramatically improve how your home looks, feels, and functions — while increasing equity and resale value.

These six upgrades — from painting and lighting to curb appeal and office space — are all practical, approachable, and proven to pay off. Whether you're planning to sell next year or stay for the long haul, investing your time in your home now will always yield long-term rewards.

Start small, stay consistent, and choose projects that reflect both your personal needs and what the market values most. With every upgrade, you’re not just improving your home — you’re building your future.