Real estate experts say these are the smartest home upgrades you can make under $35

Rejuvenate your space without blowing your entire budget

Real estate experts say these are the smartest home upgrades you can make under $35
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Home renovations aren’t cheap — but home upgrades can rejuvenate your space without blowing your entire budget. To find the smartest home upgrades you can make for under $35, Mic reached out to realtors, interior designers, and house flippers. According to the experts, these easy and affordable organization hacks, decor ideas, and DIY projects go a very long way.

01

Updating your curtains to brighten & modernize any space

“Heavy drapes and old wallpaper can make a space feel more traditional,” said Bree Steele, interior designer and trade accounts manager at RJ Living — but light-colored curtains “lift the ambiance of the room and make it seem more open and modern." Steele recommends this set, which fits most curtain rods and is made from a sheer, light-filtering material.

  • Available sizes: 42W x 14L — 40W x 96L
  • Available styles: 25

02

Disguising your router in a stylish box

"Routers can become an eyesore when you are trying to stage your homes,” said Steele, “which is why I really like to cover them with decorative covers to make them blend in.” Steele recommends this wooden modem box, which has vent holes, cut-outs for wires and antennas, and interior shelves to hold multiple devices.

03

Hiding cord clutter in cable-management boxes

"One pet peeve of mine in spaces is cords, which add more visual clutter to the space and can be easily hidden with cable management boxes,” said Steele, who recommends this set of two. They’re made from tough ABS plastic with wooden lids and they come with cable ties and stick-on clips.

  • Available styles: 2

04

Repairing wood floors & furniture with this easy-to-use set

According to Steele, "scratches on floors or on furniture can be easily fixed with furniture repair markers, making the home look more cohesive and clean.” This direct recommendation comes with both markers and crayons in six popular shades, so you can cover scuffs and fill in gouges in seconds.

05

Updating the hardware on your cabinets

Another one of Steele’s go-to upgrades is switching out hardware like knobs and handles: “This is a small change that is cost-effective, and can make big changes in the home’s presentation,” said Steele. This 30-pack of matte black steel handles costs under $25, and it comes with the screws you’ll need for installation. You can also opt for brushed brass or brushed nickel.

  • Available sizes: 30 — 45
  • Available styles: 3

06

Making rooms look bigger by reflecting light with a strategically placed mirror

“Having more light will make the room feel more open, bright, and airy,” and “one of my favorite ways to increase the amount of light in the room is to add mirrors,” said Steele, who recommends this circular mirror. Since it’s modern, lightweight, and has a chain for hanging, it’s both stylish and easy to strategically place so “you can reflect more light” and make “the room look bigger.”

  • Available sizes: 9.8 inch — 15.7 inch

07

Storing outdoor cords in a weather-proof electrical box

According to Sal Dimiceli, Sr. (owner of Lake Geneva Area Realty), cord management boxes aren’t just an interior upgrade: “Be it wires of porch lights or backyard deck setup, exposed wires are an eyesore” — one that’s easily damaged and potentially dangerous. “Find a waterproof, heavy-duty connection box to tuck away the multiplugs,” said Dimiceli, who recommends this outdoor electrical box that’s weather-proof and wall-mountable.

  • Available sizes: 9"x5"x4.3" Clear — 12.6"x8.3"x5.1"

08

Boosting functionality with a rolling cart

"One ingenious hack for making each living space functional is using a tiered multipurpose cart,” said Dimiceli. Since they’re space-savvy and on wheels, “they can be used anywhere: bathroom, kitchen, office supplies, and even [as] a nightstand.” This recommended option has dual metal handles and comes in various colors and sizes up to six tiers.

  • Available sizes: 3-tier — 6-tier
  • Available styles: 5

09

Or maximizing your storage with a slim cart

For tighter spaces, a slim cart “makes it easier to hide under a table” or in an “odd gap between two furniture pieces,” said Dimiceli. This four-tier rolling cart measures just 5 inches wide, so it fits beside appliances, between washers and dryers, next to the toilet, or in other tight corners that could use more storage.

  • Available styles: 3

10

Elevating a space with expensive-looking curtains

According to Nick Disney from Sell My San Antonio House, “You can remove and replace old and outdated curtains quickly and easily to help bring any room up to date." Disney recommends these linen curtains, which are woven into an expensive-looking cross-weave pattern using flax and polyester. They also have metal grommets with an elevated bronze finish.

  • Available sizes: 36x45 —52x120
  • Available styles: 14

11

Choosing furniture that doubles as storage

“Using furniture that has a double purpose can help you save space and will make the room feel bigger because you need one less item in there,” said Disney — and furniture with built-in storage, like this foldable storage ottoman, will “help you clear up the clutter.” It functions as a seat or footstool with its 286-pound capacity and velvet upholstery, but the inside is hollow to hold blankets, clothes, pillows, or books.

  • Available sizes: 12.2 x 16.1 x 12.2 Inches — 15 x 15 x 15 inches
  • Available styles: 6

12

Freshening your sofa with new throw pillows

“Consider adding inexpensive items like a new set of throw pillows to freshen up the space,” said Disney. These throw pillow covers come in four sizes and 12 colors to help you quickly update your sofa. They’re made from soft, washable polyester and they have hidden zippers to keep the inserts in place.

  • Available sizes: 12”x20” — 20”x20”
  • Available styles: 12

13

Replacing dated lights with plug-in fixtures

Replacing dated light fixtures “with modern, sleek designs can instantly update a space,” said Colten Claus, associate broker at 8z Real Estate in Colorado Springs. “A simple yet stylish light fixture, like the Globe Electric Amaris 1-light plug-in pendant, can be found for less than $35 and can dramatically improve the appearance of a room,” said Claus — and since it plugs into a standard outlet, it doesn’t require additional wiring.

  • Available styles: 2

14

Refreshing old, stained grout with this non-toxic pen

While tiles are pretty durable, the grout between them can get dirty quickly. Claus recommends this grout pen to refresh “old, stained grout,” which can “brighten up kitchen and bathroom tiles quickly and inexpensively." The water-based formula is non-toxic and quick-drying while the narrow tip is designed for precise application. Each one covers up to 150 feet of thin grout.

  • Available sizes: Narrow Tip — Wide Tip

15

Redirecting & camouflaging wires with this raceway kit

“Exposed cables are a common eyesore in many homes,” said Claus. “Using simple cable management solutions, such as the D-Line cable raceway, can tidy up the space for a more polished look." These covers have a pipe-like design that hides and directs wires to outlets. They are installed with included adhesive tape, come with elbows to change directions, and are paintable for complete camouflaging.

  • Available sizes: Small — Medium
  • Available styles: 4

16

Transforming your doors with new handles

“Replacing old, worn-out door handles with new, modern hardware can transform the feel of the entire house,” said Claus. These best-selling door handles have a modern rectangular shape and are made from matte black metal that’s been treated with Microban to minimize bacteria. You can get them with or without locks and in packs of up to 10.

  • Available sizes: 1 Pack — 10 Pack
  • Available styles: 3

17

Adding storage with floating shelves

According to Claus, “Another tactic is using floating shelves to add storage without consuming floor space.” These floating shelves are made from distressed paulownia wood and have rustic jute ropes for hanging. They’re great for decor, toiletries, or as a catch-all in your entryway.

  • Available sizes: Twin — 3-Tier

18

Using mirrors to make a small space feel larger & brighter

“Adding mirrors to smaller rooms or areas with limited natural light can make spaces feel larger and brighter,” said Claus — plus, they double as functional decor. These frameless mirror tiles come in countless sizes and include foam mounting tape, so you can create your own configurations in closets, hallways, entryways, workout spaces, and more.

  • Available sizes: 8”x8” 8PCS — 70”x24”

19

Creating outdoor ambiance with solar-powered lights

"I like to string outdoor solar-powered lights in gardens or backyards to create exterior ambiance,” said Geoff Clopton Jr., associate real estate broker at RLAH Real Estate. These solar fairy lights come in a pack of two and span 33 feet each. The waterproof panel includes a ground stake and has a button that lets you switch between the eight light modes.

  • Available sizes: 2 Pack-33 Ft — 2 Pack-72 Ft
  • Available styles: 5

20

Brightening your kitchen with under-cabinet lights

“Lighting underneath [cabinets] can really brighten a kitchen,” said Clopton — but you don’t have to pay an electrician thousands of dollars to install them. Instead, Clopton suggests “cheap lights,” like these battery-operated puck lights. Simply install them with the included adhesive and tap them to turn them on.

  • Available sizes: 2 Pack — 3 Pack

21

Or adding motion-sensor LEDs

Adding small lights isn’t just a great DIY project in the kitchen. “Inexpensive LEDs in closets” are also a quick and easy upgrade, according to Clopton. These rechargeable lights sense motion so they can automatically switch on when you walk in. They also detach from their magnetic bases when it’s time to charge them with a USB-C cable.

  • Available sizes: 10 inch — 14.7 inch
  • Available styles: 2

22

Cleaning your windows & mirrors regularly

When making their home look fresh and updated, “people often forget the simple things. Make sure you Windex your windows and mirrors regularly,” said Clopton. This glass cleaning tool comes with an extendable steel pole and a squeegee that you can cover with the included washable microfiber pads. That way, you can get your windows, mirrors, shower fixtures, and windshields looking clean and streak-free with less effort.

  • Available styles: 2

23

Or, these clothes for a streak-free finish without chemicals

Because they’re lint-free and specifically designed for glass, these microfiber cleaning cloths help you achieve a streak-free finish on windows and mirrors — and they work using nothing but water. They’re also machine-washable hundreds of times each, so they’re much more wallet-friendly and sustainable than paper towels.

24

Warming up your entryway with a new doormat

Never underestimate the power of a new doormat, said Lindsey Harn, agent at Christie's International Real Estate. This popular welcome mat has over 23,000 reviews and a 4.3-star overall rating on Amazon because it’s anti-slip, low-profile, moisture-resistant, and durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use. It also comes in four sizes and seven colors.

  • Available sizes: 35x23 — 59x35
  • Available styles: 7

25

Replacing your mismatched light bulbs with a matching set

When upgrading your space, “make sure all light bulbs are replaced and matched,” said Harn. While you’re at it, you can also boost ambiance and value by switching to cost-saving LED bulbs with a warm glow. Each one costs an average of $1.14 a year to power and lasts over 13 years when used three hours a day. They also emit a warm golden glow for a soft, relaxing space.

  • Available sizes: 4 Pack — 32 Pack
  • Available styles: 2

26

Organizing your closets with the right tools

For a home that feels spacious and functional, “make sure all closets are organized,” said Harn — and Amazon has plenty of well-rated tools to make the job easier. These large-capacity bags, for example, help you condense, protect, and store blankets, bedding, linens, and seasonal clothing. They’re made from non-woven fabric with dual handles and have clear panels so you can see what’s inside.

  • Available sizes: 2 x 60L — 10 x 90L
  • Available styles: 5

27

Or maximizing closet space with these genius hangers

If your closets feel overpacked and cluttered, these magic hangers have more than 22,000 five-star ratings for a reason: Their space-saving design holds up to five articles of clothing vertically, which maximizes room on your closet rod. They’re also made from strong plastic and have durable swivel hooks to support up to 8 pounds each.

  • Available sizes: 8 Pack — 20 Pack

28

Making your pantry tidy & functional

A tidy pantry is a functional pantry, according to Harn. Clear food storage containers not only cut down on box clutter, but they keep food fresher for longer and allow you to see what you have at a glance. This pack of seven comes in various sizes with stackable, universal lids and reusable labels, plus a chalk pen.

  • Available sizes: 3 Pack — 14 Pack

29

And tackling chaotic food storage lids

Food storage lids are just one of those things that get out of hand fast — which is why this YouCopia lid organizer has an 4.6-star overall rating after more than 37,000 reviews. It tackles the issue once and for all with its vertical filing system and adjustable dividers, plus it has handles so you can take the organizer down to peruse your collection.

  • Available sizes: Small — Large

30

And using an under-sink organizer to minimize clutter & maximize storage

Whether used in your bathroom or your kitchen, a well-designed under-sink organizer will maximize storage and minimize clutter. This expandable option is height- and width-adjustable, has a U-shaped configuration to accommodate plumbing, and holds up to 40 pounds of bottles and cleaning supplies with its two-tier design.

31

Or getting your drawers in order with these polished caddies

Finally, get your drawers in order with a set of organizers. These luxury bamboo boxes come in various sizes, so you can use them for office supplies, toiletries, kitchen tools, and jewelry. Since they’re made from bamboo, they’re eco-friendly, easy to clean, and give your drawers a high-end feel without the price tag.

  • Available sizes: 3 Boxes — 8 Boxes

32

Touching up any cracked or scuffed paint

According to Harn, “Any chipped paint [...] can make the house feel worn [and] used.” Fortunately, when you have these touch-up pens, you don’t have to pull out a paint can and a roller for every scuff. They’re easy to fill with your most-used colors, have tiny brush tips for precise, drip-free application, and use a vacuum-sealed design that keeps paint wet for months.

  • Available sizes: 2 Count — 5 Count

33

Fixing holes & scratches in wood

Damaged wood also makes a house feel dated and worn, said Harn. This well-rated putty stick helps you fill gaps, screw holes, gouges, cracks, dry rot, and insect damage. Since it doesn’t shrink or rot and you can paint over it within an hour, it’s great for fixing windows, furniture, floors, beams, and more.

  • Available sizes: 3.5 inch — 7 inch

34

Raising your sofa to create the illusion of added space

“Choosing a sofa with visible legs can make the room feel less cluttered,” said Andreis Bergeron, VP of sales at Awning.com (an Airbnb management company). You can also purchase these furniture legs in various heights and add them to your existing furniture. These have a tapered mid-century design, are made from rubberwood, and come with screws and gaskets.

  • Available sizes: 3 inches — 8 inches

35

Experimenting with different furniture configurations

According to Bergeron, “strategic furniture placement is crucial,” as the right configuration “can make a room feel larger and more functional.” These furniture sliders have felt bottoms that allow them to glide along hardwood, laminate, tile, and vinyl. That way, you can try out different configurations without straining yourself or scratching your floors.

  • Available sizes: 3-1/2 x 6 Inch Oval — Multi-Size Combo Pack
  • Available styles: 7

36

Adding a fresh coat of paint to trim & baseboards

“Even something as simple as a fresh coat of paint on worn trim or baseboards can revitalize a space, making it look more cared for and less dated,” said Bergeron. This latex paint from Rust-Oleum has a semi-gloss finish that’s low-odor, chip-resistant, and dries to the touch in about 30 minutes. You can use it on various surfaces, including wood, metal, plaster, and unglazed ceramic.

  • Available sizes: 1 Quart — 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)
  • Available styles: 29

37

Or giving your moldings a thorough cleaning

No time for a painting project? Reviewers were “shocked” by the amount of dirt this baseboard cleaning tool removed and wrote, “My baseboards and other woodwork [look] like new again.” The L-shaped head and reusable pads are specifically designed to remove dust and scuffs around molding, and the aluminum pole extends to 4 feet to help you reach above doors and windows.

38

Touching up scratches on appliances & porcelain

If you have a scratched stove, chipped sink, or damaged tub, this touch-up paint can help. It looks like a bottle of nail polish, but it’s actually filled with a high-gloss enamel that disguises minor damages on metal, porcelain, and tile. It also comes in almost 20 color options to match most surfaces.

  • Available sizes: .33 Fl Oz — 1.5 Fl Oz
  • Available styles: 19

39

Freshening your space with a light, clean scent

“People also [associate] positive memories with good scents,” said Clopton, “so a light clean scent inside can be nice.” This smudge candle uses natural soybean wax and an earthy sage scent to freshen up the air in your space. According to one reviewer with a sensitive nose, it’s “strong enough to fill the room, but not too strong.”

  • Available sizes: 6 oz Glass — 14.5 oz Glass

40

Or cultivating a homey feel with the smell of cookies

When hosting an open house, Clopton recommends that owners “throw some easy-bake chocolate chip cookies in the oven” to make the space feel cozy. This reed diffuser set is even easier. It comes in nostalgic gourmand scents like sugar cookies, gingerbread, and pumpkin brulee — and it doubles as a piece of decor with its glass vessel and wooden reeds.

  • Available styles: 40+