5 Simple Upgrades That Can Boost Your Home’s Value Without Breaking the Bank
If you’re thinking about selling your home here in Austin—or even if you’re just curious about increasing your property’s value—there’s good news. You don’t need a major remodel or a big budget to make a real impact. Sometimes, small, thoughtful upgrades can add serious curb appeal and catch buyers’ eyes without breaking the bank.
Here are five easy, Austin-friendly ideas that can help your home stand out in today’s market:
1. Fresh Coat of Paint
A fresh coat of paint is one of the simplest ways to brighten up your space and give it a clean, inviting feel. For 2025, some of the top paint colors include:
Sherin Williams’ Quietude: Fall slowly into this neutral green. For a restful space, inject this cool, light hue with its complex blue-gray undertone.
Warm Greige — think Sherwin Williams’ Repose Gray or Benjamin Moore’s Balboa Mist
Soft Sage Green — Sherwin Williams’ Quietude (their 2025 Color of the Year) or Benjamin Moore’s Saybrook Sage
Creamy White — like Sherwin Williams’ Shoji White or Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee
Have fun with it! This is a great way to add personality and charm to your home without going overboard.
2. Upgrade Fixtures and Hardware
Outdated light fixtures, cabinet knobs, and door handles can make a home feel stuck in the past. Swapping them out for fresh, modern options is an easy update that makes a big difference. Right now, finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or antique brass are really popular and add a nice touch of style.
3. Boost Curb Appeal with Landscaping and Trees
We all know first impressions matter. Simple landscaping upgrades like planting drought tolerant native plants and adding shade trees can really make your home shine. And here’s a little Austin wisdom: the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago — the second best time is right now. If you’re looking for affordable ways to add trees, check out local resources like TreeFolks or the City of Austin’s Grow Green program. Trees aren’t just pretty — they help keep your home cool under our Texas sun.
4. Add Outdoor Living Space with Shade
A recent OHA listing that went under contract within a week of listing featuring a screened-in porch!
Living in Texas means we all appreciate a good shady spot! I recently screened in my patio for under $1,000, and it has been a game changer. Many buyers pass on homes with bare backyards that offer no relief from the sun. Adding a covered patio, screened-in porch, or other shade structure creates a welcoming outdoor space that buyers really love — plus, it makes your home more enjoyable for you too.
5. Energy Efficient Upgrades and Rainwater Collection
More and more Austin buyers are looking for homes that save money and care for the environment. Installing a smart thermostat or swapping out old bulbs for LED lighting are simple, cost effective upgrades. And if you want to go a step further, adding rainwater collection barrels is a smart, eco-friendly touch that’s gaining popularity here.
Sometimes it’s the small things that make the biggest difference—whether you’re thinking about selling soon or just want to feel more at home. If you’re curious about what your Austin home is really worth right now, I’m always here to chat and help you make sense of it all.
Realtor at Open House Austin and seasoned real estate investor with long-term, mid-term, and short-term rental experience under her belt.
