7 Smart Home Improvements That Add Value Before You Sell

7 Smart Home Improvements That Add Value Before You Sell

Preparing to sell your home in Denver’s competitive real estate market? The right improvements can make all the difference in attracting motivated buyers and securing a higher sale price.

At Highlands Property Group, we guide sellers through the updates that deliver the strongest return on investment (ROI) — without unnecessary spending. Below are seven data-backed home improvements that can help your home sell faster and for more money in today’s market.

1. Upgrade Kitchen Fixtures and Finishes

The kitchen remains the heart of the home — and one of the first areas buyers evaluate. You don’t need a full remodel to make an impact. Simple updates like modern cabinet hardware, new faucets, pendant lighting, or a refreshed backsplash can make your kitchen feel brand new.

Pro Tip: Energy-efficient appliances attract eco-conscious buyers while reducing operating costs.

📊 The National Association of Realtors’ 2024 Remodeling Impact Report found that a minor kitchen remodel recoups an average of 85% of its cost at resale.

2. Boost Curb Appeal with Landscaping and Exterior Touches

A home’s first impression starts at the curb. Fresh landscaping, trimmed hedges, colorful plants, and clean walkways set the tone before a buyer steps inside.

In Denver, where neighborhoods like Highlands, Sloan’s Lake, and Wash Park blend charm with luxury, outdoor presentation can directly influence perceived value.

Pro Tip: Homes with strong curb appeal can sell for up to 7% more than comparable properties (NAR). Consider repainting your front door in a bold color or updating exterior lighting for extra character.

3. Refresh Walls with Neutral, Modern Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to revitalize your home. Stick with light, neutral tones such as warm white, greige, or soft beige. These hues appeal to the widest audience and make interiors feel more open and bright.

Pro Tip: Choose high-quality, low-VOC paint to appeal to health-conscious and eco-focused buyers.

💡 Homes with new interior paint can sell for nearly $4,000 more on average than similar properties, according to HomeLight.

4. Add Energy-Efficient Features

Buyers are increasingly looking for sustainable and cost-efficient homes. Energy upgrades not only lower utility bills but can also give your listing a competitive edge.

Install a smart thermostat, switch to LED lighting, or add insulated windows to improve efficiency. These improvements often appear in buyer search filters on Zillow and Redfin, boosting your visibility.

Pro Tip: Energy Star-certified homes can sell for up to 3% more than comparable properties without efficiency features.

5. Modernize Bathrooms with Small, High-Impact Updates

Bathrooms rank just behind kitchens in importance for resale value. Even small updates — replacing mirrors, lighting, or faucets — can create a modern and spa-like feel.

If your budget allows, consider new tile, a floating vanity, or a frameless glass shower door for a luxury finish.

Pro Tip: Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report found that midrange bathroom remodels yield an average ROI of 67%.

6. Upgrade Lighting and Fixtures Throughout the Home

Lighting has a powerful effect on how a home feels. Replace dated fixtures with modern designs that complement your home’s architecture. Add dimmer switches, under-cabinet lighting, or sleek sconces to enhance ambiance.

In Denver’s luxury neighborhoods, statement lighting in entryways, kitchens, and dining areas creates the visual appeal buyers expect.

Pro Tip: Layered lighting — ambient, task, and accent — helps homes look better in photos and in person.

7. Refinish or Replace Flooring

Buyers consistently rank updated flooring among the most desirable home features. Refinished hardwood floors, in particular, add immediate sophistication and durability.

If your home currently has worn carpet, consider upgrading to wide-plank wood or luxury vinyl that matches today’s design preferences.

📈 According to NAR, refinishing hardwood floors can yield a 147% return on investment, making it one of the best upgrades before listing.

Bonus Tip: Consider Smart Home Technology

While not essential for every home, adding smart features can help your listing stand out. Items like a smart doorbell, automated lighting, or keyless entry can appeal to tech-savvy buyers relocating to Denver.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home is a business decision, and smart improvements can dramatically impact your bottom line. By focusing on these seven updates — kitchen finishes, curb appeal, paint, energy efficiency, bathroom refreshes, lighting, and flooring — you’ll position your home to sell faster and for top dollar.

At Highlands Property Group, I combine market data with real-world experience to help sellers make strategic upgrades that maximize ROI. Whether you’re preparing to sell in The Highlands, Sloan’s Lake, Cherry Creek, or LoHi, I can help you create a plan that delivers measurable results.

📩 Ready to sell your home for top dollar?Contact Highlands Property Group to schedule a complimentary pre-listing consultation and personalized home valuation.