Selling a small home can be a challenge, especially when it comes to increasing its value.

However, many people are intimidated by the idea of taking on a big renovation project, especially if they're short on time and resources.

The good news is, there are many easy DIY weekend home updates you can undertake that will have a big impact on your space.

From upgrading the kitchen to installing a smart home system, these simple changes will not only increase the value of your small home, but they'll also make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Whether you're a seasoned DIY-er or just getting started, these updates are designed to be simple, affordable, and easy to accomplish. So why not get inspired, grab your tools, and start your home improvement project today?

1. Paint Your Walls

Paint the walls and ceilings. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a small space.

Choose a neutral color that will appeal to a wide range of buyers, and make sure to clean the walls thoroughly before you begin. This will not only help the paint adhere better, but also create a clean, bright, and welcoming atmosphere.

According to a study by HomeGain, repainting your home's interior can increase its value by an average of $1,500.

Tip: consider a semi-gloss finish, which is easier to clean than flat paint.

2. Update Your Lighting

Changing out your light fixtures can instantly give your home a fresh new look. Old lighting fixtures can make even the nicest of homes look outdated.

man changing ceiling light — Anete Lusina

Replacing them with stylish light fixtures can instantly update the look of your space.

Additionally, you can add some LED lights to brighten up dark areas and highlight specific areas in your home.

Tip: Choose modern, energy-efficient fixtures to add style and value to your home.

3. Install New Cabinet Hardware

Switching out your cabinet hardware, doorknobs, and light switch plates can give your home a more polished look.

new gold kitchen cabinet knobs — Chastity Cortijo

Update kitchen and bathroom hardware too: the knobs, handles, and faucets in your kitchen and bathroom can instantly modernize the look of these spaces. Choose hardware in a contemporary finish, such as brushed nickel or chrome.

Tip: If you’re not sure what to pick, choose a finish that matches your light fixtures and faucets for a cohesive look.

4. Add Crown Molding Crown

Molding is a relatively simple update. Choose a style that complements your home's existing architecture and have fun painting or staining the molding to match your décor.

Don’t forget the baseboards. They can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room.

Decorative moldings can be purchased pre-made at most home improvement stores and can be easily installed over a weekend with the right tools.

Adding crown molding to your home can increase its value by an average of 10% to 15%, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report.

Tip: You can buy an inexpensive miter box from most hardware stores. One of these will make cutting the angles a snap! It’s a tool that you’ll use over and over.

5. Refresh Your Bathroom

Updating your bathroom doesn't have to involve a full renovation.

Consider replacing the faucet, adding a new showerhead, or installing a new toilet seat for a quick and easy update. If you have “mismatched” finishes in the room, make them all consistent.

Tip: the easiest solution for “mismatched” finishes is to replace your towel holders and hooks to match the finish of the sink, tub and toilet handles.

Like kitchen upgrades, updating your bathroom with new fixtures and finishes can increase your home's value by an average of 5% to 10%, according to Zillow.

6. Landscape Your Yard

Your yard is the first thing that buyers see when they approach your home, so take the time to make it look its best. Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and add a few flowering plants or shrubs to give your yard a well-manicured look.

A small garden can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home.

Spend some time clearing out overgrown shrubs, planting new flowers, and adding some decorative stones or mulch to the beds.

It can be more difficult if you have not lived in the property. For example, if you are trying to figure out what to do with inherited property, try to keep the essence of the older parts if they are well-preserved

Tip: A little more on mulch: Adding it to your front facing landscape is a great way to level out the terrain of the yard and direct attention toward things like flower beds or pathways. A few bags of mulch will go a long way in a small yard.

7. Install a Smart Home System

Smart home technology is becoming more popular and can add value to your home.

Consider installing a smart thermostat, smart locks, or a smart lighting system to make your home more convenient and appealing to buyers.

Probably the most immediate benefit of installing a smart home system is increased energy efficiency: Many smart home devices, such as smart thermostats and smart lights, are designed to be energy efficient. This means that buyers can enjoy lower energy bills and a more environmentally friendly home.

A study by Coldwell Banker, a real estate brokerage, found that homes with smart home technology sell for an average of 6% more than those without. This statistic provides evidence of the growing demand for smart home technology among home buyers and the increased value it can bring to a home.

8. Upgrade Your Kitchen

The kitchen is often the focal point of a home, so consider updating it to add value. Replacing the countertops, adding a new backsplash, or installing new hardware on your cabinets can all be done in a weekend.

These weekend diys are much less expensive than a “down to the studs” renovation. Cosmetic changes can make an older kitchen come to life, which is exactly the kind of hook you’ll want when putting your home up for sale.

Here’s some more food for thought, updating your kitchen with new countertops, cabinets, and appliances can increase your home's value by an average of 5% to 10%, according to Zillow.

9. Install New Flooring

New flooring can make a big impact on the look and feel of your home.

Consider installing hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring in high-traffic areas to add value and durability to your home. you're looking for an affordable option, then laminate or vinyl flooring are great options. These materials come in a variety of colors and styles and are easy to install with the right tools. Discover the best laminate plank flooring options.

Replacing old or outdated flooring with new materials, such as hardwood or tile, can add an average of 2.5% to 3% to your home's value, according to HGTV.

Tip: Try to minimize the number of flooring transitions, especially in open floor plans. When one flooring material butts up to a different material or different style, it can be off-putting. My best advice is to keep the floor in smaller homes consistent for visual flow. Bottom line, consistent flooring just looks better.

10. Add Built-Ins

Installing built-ins can add functionality and style to your home.

Consider adding a bookcase, a window seat, or a custom closet system to maximize your space and add value to your home.

Install shelving and storage solutions Additional shelving and storage solutions can help maximize the space in your small home. Think about adding floating shelves, under-the-bed storage containers, or closet organizers to create a more functional and organized space.

Tip: If possible, create balance and symmetry with built-ins. For example, if you add built-in cabinetry to one side of a fireplace, match the same cabinetry on the other side.

It's not necessary to decorate them the same, but certainly edit to a more minimal look inside of built-ins when you put your house on the market.

Minimal décor helps a potential buyer to see how their stuff would look in the space.

Above all remember this, clutter is the enemy of clarity. So keep your décor simple when you’re trying to see your house.

11. Update Your Front Door

Your front door is the first thing that buyers see when they approach your home, so consider updating it to make a good first impression.

Consider replacing the door with a new one in a different color or painting your existing door for a quick and easy update.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to paint the front door a color, especially one that contrasts the color of the house.

A colorful first impression is memorable and dynamic.

Even if a perspective buyer doesn’t like the color, they’ll remember it…”I liked the brick house with the teal blue door most…” It becomes a shorthand for communicating to everyone involved in the house hunt and their agents as well.

If they end up purchasing your home, they can change the color to suit their tastes.

12. Create an Outdoor Living Space

Adding an outdoor living space can be a great way to add value to your home.

a small outdoor patio space — Peter Goldberg

Install a deck, a patio, or a fire pit to create an inviting outdoor space that you and your family can enjoy while the house is for sale.

This doesn’t have to be an elaborate undertaking.

You can install pavers in a visually appealing way, right over turf.
You can cover older cement patios with outdoor rugs.
Bring in some weather resistant accent pillows and create a moment.

This shows the potential for an outdoor room to prospective buyers. That’s a BIG deal because an outdoor space is an extension of a small house.

Tip: Style this outdoor space like another room, Add in a firepit, comfortable seating, tables, chairs, outdoor seating. Make it a comfortable additional living and dining room for outside.

Remember, buyers need to SEE the potential in any extra space to get them excited to make an offer.

With these updates, you can easily increase the value of your small home and make it a more stylish and functional space. Whether you're looking to sell or just want to enjoy your home more, these easy DIY weekend updates will help you achieve your goal.

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“Michael Helwig was top-notch, very professional and responsive to my needs. He allowed me time to explore ideas and try out a variety of combinations until we found the perfect fit. Michael provided detailed information and offered beautiful ideas to make my dream living room become a reality. The furniture he sourced has totally transformed my living room space. Everyone that has seen my new living room has one word, WOW! A special thank you to Michael for a wonderful experience.”

— Karen B.

“Michael was very knowledgeable and guided us, with great patience and good humor, through the process of designing our dining room and helping us find the perfect sleeper sofa. He offered really helpful advice when we asked questions - which was often - but at no time did we ever feel pushed. He helped me when I felt like I couldn’t make one more decision. When my new furniture finally arrived I realized everything down to the pillows was perfect. I couldn’t be happier!”

— Sarah H.

Maximize Your Small House's Value Before You Sell: 12 Easy DIY Weekend Updates — Lina Kivaka

Michael is Principal designer and blogger at Michael Helwig Interiors in beautiful Buffalo, New York. Since 2011, he’s a space planning expert, offering online interior e-design services for folks living in small homes, or for those with awkward and tricky layouts. He’s a frequent expert contributor to many National media publications and news outlets on topics related to decorating, interior design, diy projects, and more. Michael happily shares his experience to help folks avoid expensive mistakes and decorating disappointments. You can follow him on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook @interiorsmh.