The first impression you make when selling your home truly plays a vital role in the process. But the problem that arises is, what if you lack sufficient funds to perform major renovation projects? Well, here’s some great news: Zillow and Thumbtack have recently published data showing that homeowners can enhance their property’s appeal without spending large amounts of money.
According to Zillow home trends expert Amanda Pendleton:
“Certain low-lift projects can deliver a high payoff because they elevate a home in the mind of a buyer,”
Affordable Renovation Projects That Attract Buyers
The following list presents the top 10 budget-friendly, affordable renovation projects from 2024 that will help you enhance your home’s market appeal and draw in potential buyers.
#1—Window Box
Who doesn’t love a pop of color and greenery? Window boxes are a classic, but simple way to enhance your home’s curb appeal. These charming containers for flowers, plants, or herbs can be installed just below the window sill, instantly bringing new life to your home’s exterior.
- Zillow stats: Homes with a window box receive 48% more saves and 52% more shares per day compared to similar homes without this feature.
- Average national cost: $100 to $150 for professional installation and $15-$900 for materials
#2—Open Shelving
The popularity of open shelving in home decor has recently surged and these closet systems and shelving installations have increased by 31.5% during the past year according to Thumbtack. Open shelving serves as an excellent method to showcase your treasured possessions while producing a contemporary atmosphere with plenty of space. The project exists as a DIY possibility or you can choose to hire a professional for building custom built-ins.
- Zillow statistics show that properties featuring open shelving receive 37% more daily saves and 45% more daily shares than homes without this design element.
- The average national price for professional installation stands at $275 but shelf costs are not included.
#3—Painted Brick
A fresh coat of paint on your brick exterior should be your next step. A new pop of color will give your home a complete makeover and also boost its curb appeal.
- Zillow stats: Painted brick homes receive 31% more saves and 39% more shares per day compared to similar homes without fresh paint.
- Average national cost: $4,600–$7,600, including labor, material, and equipment
#4—Vintage Charm
Using vintage elements in your home will give it a distinctive appearance. You should consider adding vintage light fixtures, vintage hardware, or vintage furniture pieces to your home. Using vintage items provides both personality enhancement and cost-effective alternatives to purchasing brand-new products.
- Zillow statistics show vintage elements in homes lead to 28% more daily saves and 31% more daily shares on Zillow compared to standard homes without vintage features.
- The price range for vintage decor items extends from under $100 to find excellent pieces. The installation of vintage crown molding between $2 and $50 per linear foot provides both ceiling height elevation and architectural design enhancement.
#5—Outdoor TV
The installation of an outdoor entertainment area leads to substantial increases in your home’s market value. Building an outdoor TV installation stands as a simple method to establish this space. The installation market has experienced a 12.7% annual growth, which makes outdoor TV installations a sought-after feature for numerous property owners.
- Zillow statistics show outdoor TV installations result in 28% more daily saves and 26% more daily shares for homes compared to properties without outdoor TVs.
- The average national cost for this installation ranges from $175 to $200, but prices may increase based on electrical requirements and weather protection needs.
#6—Picket Fence
The white picket fence remains a classic element of the “American Dream” stereotype, which still enhances home exterior appeal. The fence creates a pet-friendly yard space, which proves attractive to many potential homebuyers.
- Zillow stats show that properties with picket fences generate 27% more daily saves and 31% more daily shares than unfenced yards.
- The national average price range for this installation runs from $7 to $45 per linear foot.
#7—Pergola Renovation Project
The importance of outdoor living continues to grow as summer temperatures rise, while pergolas serve as both shade structures and fashionable social areas.
- Zillow statistics show that homes featuring pergolas receive 20% more daily saves and 24% more daily shares compared to houses without pergolas.
- The total cost for a standard 10-by-10-foot pergola installation, including materials and labor, amounts to $3,600 nationwide.
#8—Fire Pit
A fire pit transforms your backyard into a comfortable summer gathering space. The DIY-friendly project requires minimal cost to create an inviting outdoor feature.
- Zillow stats: Fire pits in homes increase daily save rates by 19% and share rates by 23% compared to homes without them.
- The total cost for this project remains under $1,000 based on the selected kit options.
#9—Outdoor Sound System Renovation Project
A sound system is another way to start (or add to) an outdoor entertainment area. A little music can help set the tone for any type of gathering. If you bundle this project with an outdoor TV, it could help you save on labor costs, as they can be set up at the same time.
- Zillow stats: Homes with this feature see 18% more saves and 19% more shares per day.
- Average national cost: $500-$2,000, depending on the system
#10—Smart Lighting
Smart technology provides an opportunity to enhance your home lighting systems. The contemporary feature enhances both the appearance and operational efficiency of your residence.
- Smart lighting features in homes result in 18% increased daily savings and 23% higher daily shares according to Zillow statistics.
- The average installation price across the nation amounts to $308.
Conclusion on Affordable Renovation Projects
The projects you choose will create substantial improvements to your home’s market value and visual appeal. The best part about this is that no major renovation is required.
According to Pendleton:
“These features bring a wow factor to a home or they serve as a signal that a home is up-to-date, well-maintained or move-in ready”
The combination of these features will lead to faster home sales and higher prices because buyers will compete more intensely for properties with these attributes. These affordable renovation projects present valuable options for homeowners who plan to sell their property in the future or who want to experience new features. Small changes lead to significant results.
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