What Do I Need to Do? Two Simple, Inexpensive Upgrades That Sell Your Home

"What do I need to do?"

That’s the first question homeowners ask me and other real estate agents when they want to sell their homes.

I always start with a simple truth: Three things sell a home—price, condition, and location. Obviously, only two of these are in your control. And here’s the key—price and condition are directly connected. The better your home looks, the more buyers are willing to pay.

So, does that mean a full kitchen renovation and a total bathroom remodel?

Nope. Quite the opposite.

There are simple, inexpensive ways to boost your home’s market value.

Oh, so you must mean a new roof, furnace, and A/C, right?

Whoa, whoa… pump the brakes!

NO! I’m talking about a couple of coats of paint. Raking the leaves. A little spackle here and there.

In fact, if you’re willing to put in some effort, you could get all of this done for under $1,000—and make a huge impact on your home’s sale price.

The Two Most Impactful Improvements When Preparing Your Home for Sale

When selling your home, first impressions matter!

The moment potential buyers pull up, their initial reaction can shape their entire experience. Your goal? Create an inviting, warm atmosphere that makes them excited to step inside. At the very least, you don’t want to turn them away before they even reach the front door.

1. Boost Your Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to make a big impact. Whether you invest a little sweat equity or hire professionals, small changes can lead to significant results.

Landscaping: The Biggest Bang for Your Buck

Landscaping is a game-changer when it comes to your home’s exterior. You don’t need an expensive overhaul—just a few strategic updates can work wonders.

Photo credit: The Tarnished Jewel Blog

• Grass & Greenery: If you're listing in the spring, think lush and vibrant! Spreading grass seed now ensures a beautiful lawn when the weather warms up. For an eco-friendly boost, consider adding clover—it’s low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and provides early-season food for bees.

• Fresh Mulch & Edging: A fresh layer of mulch instantly enhances your yard’s appearance. Not only does it create a striking contrast against the greenery, but it also gives garden beds a polished, well-maintained look.

• Pops of Color with Flowers: Flowers add warmth and charm, making your home feel loved and inviting. Whether you plant them or keep them in decorative pots, a splash of color by the entryway can make a world of difference.

2. Refresh Your Interior with Paint

Once buyers step inside, they should feel welcomed into a bright, clean, and well-maintained space.

One of the most effective ways to achieve this? A fresh coat of paint.

Why Paint is a Game-Changer

Painting is one of the highest-return, lowest-cost updates you can make before selling. It instantly makes a home feel newer, fresher, and move-in ready—qualities that today’s buyers love.

• Neutral Tones Sell: Bold or outdated colors can be distracting, making it harder for buyers to envision themselves in the space. Stick to neutral, universally appealing shades like soft whites, light grays, warm beiges, or greige (a mix of gray and beige). These colors create a blank canvas, helping buyers imagine their furniture and décor in the home.

• Brighten Up Your Space: Lighter paint colors can make rooms feel larger, more open, and filled with natural light. This is especially beneficial for smaller rooms or homes with limited sunlight.

• Cover Up Wear & Tear: Over time, walls accumulate scuffs, scratches, and marks. A fresh coat of paint hides imperfections, making the home look well cared for and move-in ready.

  
  

Where to Focus First

If you’re limited on time or budget, prioritize high-impact areas:

• Entryway & Main Living Areas: These are the first spaces buyers see, so they should make a strong first impression.

• Kitchen & Bathrooms: A fresh coat of paint can modernize and brighten up these key spaces.

• Bedrooms: A soft, calming color palette helps create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

  
  

By refreshing your interior paint, you can make your home feel newer, more spacious, and more inviting—without a major investment. Combined with great curb appeal, this simple update can significantly boost your home’s value and attract more buyers!

There are many ways to prepare your home for sale.  When choosing which projects to tackle, always consider your return on investment (ROI).  Landscaping and painting are two of the biggest bangs for your buck if you’re willing to dump in some sweat equity.  By investing in these simple yet effective upgrades, you can maximize your home’s appeal and attract more buyers—without breaking the bank.

For more high-ROI projects, download our guide, “Cheap and Easy Ways to Prep Your Home in Under Two Weeks”.