Easy DIY Upgrades That Add $15K in Home Value

Simple weekend projects that boost resale—no demolition required

You don’t need to tear down walls or call in a design team to raise your home’s value. Sometimes, the biggest bang comes from the smallest fixes. Think of these as the real estate version of flossing—quick, effective, and oddly satisfying.

From installing a smart thermostat to sprucing up your landscaping, here are three budget-friendly projects that could collectively add over $15,000 in perceived value to your home. Even better? Each one comes with a YouTube tutorial so you can knock them out confidently—no contractor required.

📱 1. Install a Smart Thermostat

Estimated value added: $1,500–$2,500
Cost: $100–$250

Smart thermostats are one of the easiest ways to make your home more energy efficient—and more appealing to tech-savvy buyers. Bonus: they can cut your energy bills by about 8% annually.

▶️ Watch the tutorial

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DIY or Don’t?
DIY it if you’ve got a standard HVAC setup and are comfortable turning off the breaker.
Call a pro if you see thick, high-voltage wires or feel the phrase "C-wire" is a personal attack.

🛠️ 2. Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware

Estimated value added: $1,000–$1,500
Cost: ~$2–$10 per knob or pull

Replacing old cabinet knobs is like swapping sweatpants for a sharp blazer. Same cabinets, but suddenly much more put-together.

▶️ Watch the tutorial

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DIY or Don’t?
DIY if you can handle a screwdriver and a tape measure.
Hire someone if you need to patch or drill new holes—especially on older wood.

🌿 3. Refresh Your Landscaping

Estimated value added: Up to 12% of home value
Cost: $250–$750

Landscaping is the curb appeal MVP. Clean lines, fresh mulch, and drought-tolerant plants go a long way—and you don’t need to call a landscape architect to do it.

▶️ Watch the tutorial

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DIY or Don’t?DIY it if you’re planting, mulching, or trimming.Call a pro if you're planning to grade the yard, remove trees, or install irrigation.

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💡 Final Thoughts

These aren’t just Pinterest projects—they’re strategic upgrades. They’re small in scope but big in payoff, especially if you’re prepping your house to sell or just want to level up your living space. Tackle one this weekend and see how it transforms your home—and your equity.

🔗 References

1. Bankrate – Ways to Increase Your Home’s Value
2. GNP Realty – DIY Projects That Improve Home Value
3. Smart Service – How Landscaping Increases Home Value
4. Virginia Tech Study – Curb Appeal and Landscaping

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