Refreshing your property’s look and feel—and boosting its value along the way—doesn’t have to drain your wallet.
Whether you’re gearing up to sell, aiming to attract new tenants, or simply craving a facelift for your space, the good news is that a little effort and creativity can go a long way without breaking the bank.
DIY projects don’t have to feel overwhelming—many upgrades are perfectly doable with some time, patience, and the right know-how. Picture: Getty
Many simple tasks are well within reach for the average renovator, especially when it comes to improving curb appeal. As Cristina Cafasso from Dulux reminds us, “First impressions count, and your street appeal can dramatically boost how a property’s value is perceived.”
Here are seven straightforward DIY updates that pack a serious punch in value.
1. Tackle easy repairs first
Small fixes can make a huge difference. Torn fly screens, squeaky doors, or broken light fittings are all easy to repair yourself, usually without needing to call in the pros.
You can swap out fly screen mesh, lubricate door hinges with WD-40, and replace light fittings with stylish, store-bought options. The same goes for minor annoyances like dripping taps, loose handles, clogged drains, or scuffed walls.
Just be sure to leave the heavy stuff—like electrical, plumbing, roofing, or structural work—to licensed experts.
2. Boost your curb appeal
The old saying about first impressions rings especially true here.
“A fresh coat of paint or a color refresh can work wonders for the exterior of your home,” says Cafasso.
Curb appeal is a combination of many elements—from tidy lawns and gardens to clean driveways, all of which contribute to your home’s welcoming vibe. Picture: Getty
To really up your street cred, spruce up your garden with new or well-maintained plants, upgrade your exterior lighting, and swap out dated house numbers and mailbox for modern alternatives.
Don’t overlook your concrete surfaces, either. “Pressure wash those moldy driveways, give your garage floor a new paint job, or refresh your front steps,” Cafasso recommends.
Dulux’s Concrete & Paving range offers a simple DIY solution to transform dull concrete into something chic and durable. Just clean, prime, and apply the base and topcoats in your favorite shade. The water-based formula is slip-resistant and available in thousands of colors, sure to impress buyers, tenants, and guests alike.
3. Refresh walls and floors
A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your interior with minimal fuss.
All you need are quality brushes, rollers, drop sheets, and some trusty old clothes. Choose timeless neutral colors like whites, greys, or beige that appeal broadly and suit a variety of decorating styles.
And while you’re at it, give your floors some love. Rent a steam cleaner for carpets, apply fresh stain to hardwood floors, and re-grout tiles in bathrooms or laundries to make everything feel nearly brand-new.
4. Give your kitchen a facelift
Your kitchen doesn’t need a full renovation to feel revitalized.
Repaint cabinets and drawers using durable, water-based paints like Dulux’s Renovation Range, which can be tinted to any color and works wonders on kitchen surfaces.
Swap out dated knobs and handles for sleek modern options in finishes like chrome or brushed nickel, both of which have wide appeal.
Upgrade old taps for a quick refresh that makes a big difference in style and function.
5. Spruce up the bathroom
Bathrooms are another room where small updates create big impact.
A fresh coat of paint can change the entire vibe—go for calming hues for a spa-like feel or bold shades to make a statement.
Replace old grout to instantly brighten your tiles, and update taps, shower heads, and towel rails with contemporary choices in brushed nickel or matte black.
Don’t forget the vanity mirror—swapping out a cracked or corroded one can transform the space.
6. Revive your outdoor areas
Beyond the front facade, outdoor spaces offer plenty of opportunities to add charm and value.
Tidy the garden or courtyard, re-sand and stain decks and wooden surfaces, add greenery, and ensure outdoor entertaining areas look inviting.
Worn concrete pavers? Dulux Concrete & Paving paint can help turn your yard into an appealing oasis without the expense of full replacement.
If space is limited, vertical gardens offer a lush alternative that packs a visual punch.
“Overhauling outdoor areas can be costly, but this is a budget-friendly and effective way to upgrade your concrete surfaces yourself,” Cafasso explains.
7. Boost your home’s energy efficiency
Sustainability is a hot topic for homeowners, and energy efficiency upgrades not only save money but also add value.
Simple fixes include installing programmable thermostats to optimize heating and cooling, weather-stripping windows and doors to stop drafts, and switching to LED lighting to reduce electricity bills.
Consider insulating window coverings or exterior awnings to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, lowering your reliance on artificial heating and cooling.