Lois Marris, Ponte Vedra Club Realty
July 2024
Hello, sunshine! Whether you’re preparing to put your home on the market in the near future or just want to keep it in tip-top shape, a few strategic upgrades can work wonders. And the best part? You don’t have to dive into a major remodel to make a noticeable impact.
Even small updates can significantly enhance your home’s appearance and, in many cases, boost its future sale price. From curb appeal to interior refreshes, here are seven weekend projects that will elevate your home’s charm and value.
1. Freshen Your Front Door
Is your front door looking a bit worn out? A fresh coat of paint can make your home more inviting to guests today and potential buyers tomorrow. But choose your color wisely! Studies show that the right hue can add thousands to your home's value1. Mid-town brown, white and chalky blue safe bets that consistently win buyers' hearts, especially in the coastal area of Ponte Vedra Beach1.
Need help picking the perfect shade? We’re here to offer advice or connect you with a design professional.
2. Upgrade Your Hardware and Lighting
It’s easy to overlook dated cabinet pulls or dingy light switches, but these small details can make a big impression. Swap out old hardware for modern alternatives to give your space a quick and affordable facelift. Think classic shapes and finishes like brass knobs or nickel cup pulls2.
Don’t forget about your light fixtures! Replacing an outdated chandelier or updating your lampshades and lightbulbs can create a brighter, more welcoming atmosphere. High-quality lighting can also highlight your property’s best features when it’s time to sell3.
Need assistance with electrical changes? Reach out for a referral to a licensed electrician.
3. Update Your Bathroom Fixtures
Bathrooms can age quickly, but a few inexpensive updates can make them look fresh and modern. Even minor changes like upgrading your faucets, showerheads, or towel racks can make a big difference4,5.
Consider popular finishes like black, nickel, and pewter for a contemporary look. If your vanity needs a refresh, replacing it can significantly enhance the room’s appeal5,6.
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4. Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a Makeover
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and an updated kitchen remains a top priority for many homeowners and buyers in our area7,8. If your cabinets are dated but in good condition, consider painting them instead of replacing them. According to Better Homes and Gardens, this affordable and eco-friendly option often offers a greater return on investment9.
Warm neutrals and shades of green and blue are currently on-trend10. If you’re not confident in your preparation and painting skills, hiring a professional can still be far less expensive than installing new cabinets.
Whether you tackle this professionally or DIY, plan accordingly. This project will take some time, likely a 2 weekend project, as you’ll need to remove the cabinet hardware and doors and then wait for their paint to cure before reassembling things11.
We’re happy to connect you with skilled painters in the area.
5. Look at Your Landscaping
First impressions matter, and sprucing up your home’s exterior can make a big difference. Good curb appeal can increase your home’s value and significantly impact buyers’ perceptions. A study by HomeLight indicates buyers will pay 7% more, on average, for a home with good curb appeal12.
Focus on keeping things neat and tidy: mow your lawn, refresh mulch, prune overgrown shrubs, and add pops of color with flowers. For a more inviting look, add outdoor lighting and plant perennial flowers along your walkway.
We can recommend local landscaping crews and garden centers where you can find everything you need.
6. Update Your Flooring
Wood floors are a huge selling point, but they can get scuffed and worn over time. Summer is the perfect time to tackle this indoor job (hello AC!). Refinishing them is a worthwhile investment, offering a significant return in resale value (average 147% ROI)13.
You can rent the necessary equipment from a local hardware store14. Better yet, hire this task out to a professional. If you want to modernize your space, consider opting for a lighter wood tone15.
Consider replacing caret with beautiful beach-wood looking tile. The beach lover in you will find it much easier to keep sand-free and clean. Plus, it will likely appeal to more people than carpet.
Need help? We can provide the names of trusted professionals who can do the work for you.
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7. Clean or Replace Your Grout
Grout can get grimy over time, even with regular cleaning. Refreshing your grout is a simple and affordable project that can yield impressive results.
If your grout is stained, a focused cleaning session with specialized products or a mix of baking soda, water, and hydrogen peroxide can work wonders16. If the grout is beyond cleaning, replacing it is a manageable DIY project.
No time to tackle it yourself? We can recommend a pro who can help.
CHOOSING THE PROJECT THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU
Embarking on home improvements is exciting, but it’s essential to choose projects that align with your goals, budget, and skill level. Whether you're in Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville, or elsewhere in sunny Florida, consider tackling indoor projects during the hotter days and saving landscaping projects for cooler mornings or cloudy days.
If you're unsure where to start, don't hesitate to reach out for personalized advice and recommendations. With the right approach, you can unlock your home's full potential and enjoy the rewards for years to come.
Remember, a little effort goes a long way in boosting your property’s value and appeal. Don’t forget to visit our website and sign up for a free monthly home-valuation report. Happy renovating!
The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.
Sources:
- Zillow -
https://www.zillow.com/learn/what-color-paint-front-door/ - Martha Stewart -
https://www.marthastewart.com/kitchen-hardware-trends-8563764 - The Spruce -
https://www.thespruce.com/expert-home-lighting-tips-8302722 - Zillow -
https://www.zillow.com/learn/roi-for-bathroom-remodel/ - Forbes -
https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/bathroom/easy-quick-bathroom-updates/ - Real Simple -
https://www.realsimple.com/nkba-bathroom-design-trends-2024-8403788 - Houzz -
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2024-u-s-houzz-and-home-study-renovation-trends-stsetivw-vs~174492310 - National Association of Realtors -
https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/survey-buyers-judge-a-home-by-its-kitchen - Better Homes and Gardens -
https://www.bhg.com/kitchen/remodeling/planning/kitchen-upgrades-cost-value/ - House Beautiful -
https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/colors/g46105350/kitchen-paint-color-trends-2024/ - HGTV -
https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/best-way-to-paint-kitchen-cabinets - Homelight -
https://www.homelight.com/blog/what-upgrades-increase-home-value/ - National Association of Realtors -
https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/stub-for-148394 - Architectural Digest -
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/refinishing-hardwood-floors - Houzz -
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/5-new-trends-in-flooring-for-2024-stsetivw-vs~173560747 - Apartment Therapy -
https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/outdated-bathroom-features-37131219