Getting your house ready to sell doesn't have to be costly or stressful. With smart planning and a few creative tweaks, you can make your home more attractive to buyers without breaking the bank.
“Updates like new paint, lighting, and landscaping can make your home look well-maintained and move-in ready,” says Alejandro Ferro, founder of Ferro Home Buyers.
In this article, we'll offer practical getting-house-ready-to-sell tips—focusing on inexpensive ways to get it done. By concentrating on key improvements and savvy staging strategies, you can boost your home's appeal and increase your chances of a successful sale.
Facing rising expenses? Boost your income with a high-paying job—browse these amazing opportunities on The Muse »
Getting your house ready to sell on a budget: 9 cost-effective ways to do it
You don't need a huge budget to increase your home's market value. Here are some of the cheapest ways to sell a house:
1. Update your kitchen and bathroom
The kitchen and bathroom are critical areas, so prioritize updates here to ensure they are clean, updated, and inviting to make a strong impression. “Focus on kitchens and bathrooms first, as these are the rooms that most influence a buyer's decision,” Ferro says.
Simple updates like repainting cabinets, changing hardware, and upgrading light fixtures can make a big difference. Adding new backsplashes or modern faucets can also refresh these spaces, making them more appealing to potential buyers.
2. Improve your home's curb appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make it count. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, along with some tidy landscaping, can work wonders. You can add affordable potted plants or trim overgrown bushes to give your home a warm, welcoming vibe.
Prioritize fixing prominent issues such as leaks or outdated systems like the roof or HVAC before making aesthetic upgrades, as visible problems can deter buyers. Also, address minor repairs, like cracked walkways or missing shingles.
3. Update your flooring
Flooring can transform the look and feel of a home. Consider replacing worn carpets or refinishing hardwood floors to give your home a fresh new look. If you have the budget, installing hardwood or tile floors can add a touch of luxury and increase your property's value. Choose neutral tones that will appeal to a wide range of buyers.
4. Apply a fresh coat of fresh paint
Paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your home. “Using neutral colors for a clean, modern color scheme can make your home more appealing to a broad range of buyers,” Ferro says.
“While gray has been a popular neutral in recent years, trends are shifting towards warmer tones,” he adds. “Colors like soft beige, greige—a blend of gray and beige—and warmer neutral tones are gaining popularity as they create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.” These shades not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to a comforting ambiance.
For a bigger impact, paint high-traffic areas like the living room and kitchen to uplift your home’s look and feel.
5. Make energy-efficient improvements
Today's buyers are keen on sustainability and energy efficiency. Start by replacing old windows affected by weather or moisture, or adding insulation to reduce the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling. Swap out traditional light bulbs and fixtures with long-lasting LED bulbs and energy efficient lighting to reduce energy bills and appeal to buyers looking for green living options.
You can also maximize your natural light by opening curtains and cleaning windows. These improvements can add value to your home without a significant investment.
6. Declutter and depersonalize your space
Clear out personal items, family photos, and any unnecessary furniture to create open and welcoming spaces. “Removing personal items and excess furniture makes rooms look larger and more inviting,” Ferro says. This helps buyers imagine living their own lives in your home.
7. Add DIY décor touches
Who said you need expensive decorations to make your home look stylish? Affordable items like throw pillows, rugs, and curtains can add warmth and character. Check out secondhand stores or sales for budget-friendly options to enhance your decor without overspending.
8. Rearrange your furniture
The way furniture is arranged can significantly impact how a room feels. Arrange pieces to highlight the room’s best features and create a natural flow like a cozy reading nook or an inviting conversation area. This makes rooms feel more spacious and functional, which can be very appealing to buyers. “Small upgrades give buyers the impression that the home has been well cared for, which can justify a higher asking price,” Ferro says.
9. Deep clean your home
A clean home is a must when selling. Invest time in deep cleaning, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathrooms and can easily show dirt. Regularly sweep and wipe counters, and don't overlook hidden spots behind appliances, light fixtures, and high shelves that collect dust, grime. A spotless home looks well-maintained and ready for move-in, which is always a good thing when you're aiming to sell your house.
Bonus tip: Consider market trends
Market trends can guide which budget-friendly upgrades are most effective—so take these into consideration:
- Regional preferences: “In colder climates, energy-efficient improvements like new windows might be more valued, while outdoor living spaces are popular in warmer regions,” Ferro says. Tailor your improvements to what buyers in your area appreciate most.
- Style trends: Keeping up with design trends like modern or farmhouse styles can help you make small, trendy updates that buyers love. Simple additions like farmhouse sinks or vinyl plank flooring can refresh your home’s style.
- Local market conditions: In competitive markets, even small upgrades can help your home stand out. Stay informed about local listings and align your improvements with current trends to attract buyers.
Misconceptions about budget-friendly improvements
Some common traps can cause you to overspend or misjudge the impact of your efforts. To avoid wasting time, money, and energy, keep these misconceptions in mind:
- More expensive is always better: Costly renovations aren't always necessary. Small, thoughtful updates can have a big impact and often yield better returns than expensive projects. Instead of replacing dated kitchen cabinets, which can cost in the tens of thousands of dollars, invest a few hundred on upgrading the cabinet hardware.
- DIY is always cheaper: While DIY projects can save money, poor-quality work can hurt your home's appeal—and you may end up spending more to fix it later. Know when to hire professionals to ensure the job is done right and safely.
- All improvements add value: Not every upgrade adds value. “Improvements like crown molding, personalized renovations, such as themed rooms, backslashes, and laminate flooring might not offer a good return,” Ferro says. “They can be expensive, appear unprofessional, and deter potential buyers who might prefer replacements.” Instead, focus on updates that appeal to the widest audience and have a better chance of recouping your investment.
Bottom line
Preparing your home for sale on a budget is entirely possible with thoughtful planning and strategic improvements. By focusing on key updates and effective staging techniques, you can make your home more appealing to buyers and maximize your return. Use these inexpensive ways to get your house ready to sell to simplify the process and achieve a successful sale.