Budget Friendly HOME IMPROVEMENTS to Sell Your Home Fast

Are you looking to sell your home but feel intimidated by the costs of preparing it for the market? Don’t worry, you're not alone! Many homeowners face the same dilemma. In this video, I’ll be sharing budget-friendly tips that can make a big impact on your home’s appeal, without draining your wallet. By the end, you'll be ready to Fake It, Take It, and Make It—and sell your home faster and for a higher price!

What is "Fake It, Take It, Make It"?

Before we dive into the tips, let me quickly explain the concept I live by in my real estate strategy: Fake It, Take It, and Make It.

• Fake It: This is about putting your home in its best light—think of it like staging, but without major renovations. We're talking about creating an emotional connection with buyers by making small but impactful changes.
• Take It: Take great photos that highlight the home's best features.
• Make It: The final goal is making a profitable sale at a price that reflects the value your home offers.

In today’s vlog, we’re focusing on the Fake It part—how to make your home look like a million bucks without spending a fortune.

1. Boost Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and curb appeal is key. Buyers will get an emotional reaction the second they pull up to your home, so let's make it a positive one. Here’s how you can enhance your home’s exterior on a budget:

• Paint the Front Door: A fresh coat of paint on your front door can add an instant pop of color and charm. Think vibrant or trendy shades, but choose colors that are welcoming.
• Update House Numbers: Make sure they are visible and modern. Sleek, contemporary numbers can make a world of difference.
• Landscaping: Clean up your garden beds by pulling weeds, adding mulch, and planting a few colorful flowers. Even a little greenery can make your home feel more inviting.

2. Paint – The Easiest Transformation

When in doubt, paint! It’s one of the most budget-friendly ways to refresh your space. While it might seem like a lot of work, a can of paint can go a long way. Here’s what to tackle:

• Walls and Trim: Clean, neutral colors like whites, grays, or beiges work best and help the home feel fresh and modern. Don’t forget to touch up the trim!
• Scuff Marks: If you don't want to paint the whole wall, use a magic eraser to clean off scuff marks—especially on trim and baseboards.

3. Declutter and Personalize

You’ve probably heard this one before, but decluttering is key when selling your home. A clutter-free space looks larger, cleaner, and more appealing to buyers. Here’s how to start:

• Donate Unwanted Items: Start by purging any items that won’t make the move to your new home. Less furniture also makes rooms look more spacious.
• Storage Solutions: If you have limited closet space, invest in inexpensive bins or shelving to keep things organized. Buyers will appreciate seeing that there’s enough storage for their own things.

4. Update Cabinet Hardware

Updating your kitchen or bathroom cabinet hardware is an easy, budget-friendly fix that can dramatically improve the look of your cabinets. Choose trendy but timeless handles and knobs—this small change can make a big impact in photos and showings.

5. Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans

Dated light fixtures can really date a space. Swapping out old, worn-out ceiling fans or light fixtures is a quick DIY fix that can modernize a room. Look for affordable options at big-box stores or online retailers.

6. Make Minor Repairs

You might not think small repairs matter, but they do. Buyers will notice even the tiniest imperfections. Here’s what to look for:

• Fix Broken Doorbells: A seemingly minor fix like a broken doorbell can create a negative first impression. A working doorbell is a simple $20 fix that will make a huge difference.
• Patch Holes: Fix small holes or cracks in the walls. They can be easily patched with spackle and a coat of paint.
• Fix Fences: If you have a fence that’s leaning or broken, repair it. It’s a small investment that can boost your home’s curb appeal.

7. Clean, Clean, Clean

It’s the simplest and most effective improvement you can make. A clean home looks well-maintained and cared for, which translates into more buyer interest. Deep clean your home regularly—every week, if possible. Make sure to:

• Clean windows, floors, and carpets
• Dust all surfaces
• Sanitize bathrooms and kitchen areas

If your home isn’t clean, buyers will assume it hasn’t been well taken care of overall.

8. Maximize Closet Space

If you don’t have enough closet space, create the illusion of more. Buyers often judge closet space, so organizing is key. Use inexpensive bins or hangers to create a more orderly, spacious look.

• Declutter: Remove anything unnecessary.
• Add Storage: Install simple shelves or hooks in closets, mudrooms, or laundry rooms. Buyers will love to see how much potential your space has.

9. Staging on a Budget

Staging doesn’t always mean renting expensive furniture. Simple touches like pillows, throws, and area rugs can make a room feel cozy and inviting. A few plants here and there also help create a welcoming atmosphere. If you have old carpets, consider covering them with rugs to freshen up the space.

10. Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor areas are more important than ever, especially in a market where buyers love to entertain. Enhance your patio, balcony, or garden with budget-friendly upgrades:

• Solar Lighting: Solar lights are a great way to brighten up your outdoor spaces without much cost.
• Outdoor Furniture: Look for simple, stylish outdoor furniture that invites relaxation. Even a bench or small table can make your outdoor spaces feel like an extension of the home.

Best Stores for Budget-Friendly Home Improvements

If you’re looking for affordable decor, HomeGoods is one of my favorite go-to stores for budget-friendly home upgrades. Other options include Target and Wayfair. These retailers offer a wide selection of stylish yet affordable pieces, from lighting fixtures to decorative accessories.

Wrapping Up

Preparing your home for sale on a budget doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these simple steps—boosting curb appeal, freshening up with paint, cleaning, decluttering, and adding small updates—you can make your home stand out to potential buyers without breaking the bank.

For more tips on selling your home, be sure to subscribe to my channel, check out my Seller’s Playbook, and join our Facebook group where we continue to share real-time advice. And remember, I’m here to help you, whether you're in Chicagoland, Northeast Florida, or beyond.

Watch the next video for more tips on avoiding costly renovation mistakes that could hurt your home sale!