5 DIY Projects That Can Increase the Value of Your Home

Between the pandemic and the long summer days, we all have a little more time on our hands than normal! Why not take this extra time to put more value into your home and increase your property value? Even if you’re not looking to sell, keeping busy with a DIY project for your home will certainly help the time fly... and could even line your pockets down the road.

Grab your note pad and pen. Here are five DIY projects that will get you excited about tackling your next project of the season.

1. Freshen Your Landscaping

Summer is a great time to make repairs and improvements while enhancing your "curb appeal" through basic landscaping. The Ohio Landscape Association reports that the right landscaping can increase your home's value by 5 to 20%.  Start by repairing broken fixtures like damaged mailboxes or house numbers. Then, pull unsightly weeds and add native plants or shrubs to your entryway and backyard.

2. Paint Your Front Door This Color

Repainting your front door is an inexpensive way to give your home a fresh look and increase its value by $1,000s. According to Zillow, homes with front doors painted black or charcoal gray sell for up to $6,000 more than expected. If your budget allows for a little more wiggle room, you can also upgrade the hardware on your door. 

3. Update Your Kitchen 

Depending on your skill level and available time, there are many simple DIY upgrades that you can make in your kitchen for a more modern feel that will increase your home's value. For example, a minor kitchen remodel that includes replacing laminate countertops, painting walls, and updating sinks have Texas homeowners recouping as much as 76.4% at the time of sale. If you're up for the challenge, also consider re-staining your cabinets for a brighter, clean finish.

4. Refresh Your Walls

One of the least expensive, yet most impactful, ways to spruce up your home is by repainting the interior walls. When comparing hues, remember that it’s best to stick to neutral tones. Neutral tones give the appearance of a brighter and bigger area. They can also hide scratches or wear and tear that occurred over the years. Plus, lighter tones help potential buyers visualize themselves and their belongings in the space.

5. Add Stone Veneer to Your Home’s Exterior

Although it might sound like an intimidating project, adding manufactured stone veneer to your home exterior is the best DIY project to boost your home's value. The time and effort it takes to complete this project will pay off. Adding stone to the exterior has helped homeowners in East North Central States, like Ohio and Illinois, recoup over 88% of their costs. This advanced project may take more time to learn, but once your project is completed your home will look brand new.

As your home's value increases, so might your homeowners' insurance policy needs. Make sure you're properly covered. Speak with a qualified insurance professional to discuss your specific needs.