14 Value-Adding Home Improvements to Make Over the Holidays
The holiday season is the perfect time to relax… and also tick off a few smart home upgrades. If you’re thinking of selling your home soon—or just want to boost its value—there are plenty of simple, budget-friendly projects you can tackle during your time off.
From quick wins to weekend jobs, these value-adding tips will help your home stand out, look sharp, and attract more buyers down the track.
Maximise Your Sale Price When
Selling
This easy to follow guide includes a step-by-step how to’s, cost savers, checklists and expert advice. Easily add tens of thousands to your property’s value
1. Revitalize Your Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the biggest deal-makers (or breakers) in a home. A few strategic upgrades can breathe new life into the space:
- Replace outdated handles and tapware
- Install a fresh splashback or repaint cabinets
- Add or improve storage for better functionality
You don’t need a full renovation—just a few smart updates to modernise the space and improve appeal.
2. Deep Clean and Update the Bathroom
A clean, fresh bathroom goes a long way in a buyer’s mind. Over the break, focus on:
- Deep cleaning tiles and grout
- Replacing old showerheads or taps
- Updating mirrors or adding modern lighting
Add fresh towels and a plant for a simple styling boost.
3. Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint
Nothing beats paint for bang-for-buck value.
- Stick with neutral tones to appeal to the widest audience
- Prioritise high-traffic or tired-looking areas
- Touch up trims, doors, or even just one feature wall
New paint instantly lifts the feel of your home and makes it feel cared-for.
4. Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces
Alfresco areas are a huge drawcard, especially during summer. Spruce them up by:
- Oiling the deck
- Cleaning or updating outdoor furniture
- Adding plants or lighting for atmosphere
A tidy outdoor space creates that laid-back lifestyle vibe buyers love.
5. Improve the Landscaping
First impressions count, and a neat, welcoming garden can make a huge difference.
- Mow, edge, and tidy lawns
- Prune trees and hedges
- Add fresh mulch or plant colourful flowers
It doesn’t take much to create a great street view.
6. Boost Curb Appeal
People judge a home by its exterior. Set the tone with:
- A fresh coat of paint on the front door
- New house numbers, lighting, or a modern mailbox
- A well-maintained driveway and path
Make sure your home’s first impression is a great one.
7. Declutter and Organise
This one’s free—and powerful.
- Clear benchtops, surfaces, and shelves
- Tidy wardrobes and cupboards
- Store away personal photos and excessive decor
A clean, minimal home helps buyers picture themselves living there.
8. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures
Good lighting makes everything look better.
- Swap old fittings for stylish new pendants or LEDs
- Add warm bulbs for a cosy feel
- Install feature lighting under cabinets or in hallways
Lighting adds character, mood, and function in one go.
9. Add Smart Home Features
Smart features can impress modern buyers.
- Install a smart thermostat or video doorbell
- Add app-controlled lighting or speakers
- Make sure Wi-Fi reaches all rooms
These upgrades add perceived value and future-proof your property.
10. Refinish Floors or Clean Carpets
Floors are one of the most-used (and most visible) surfaces in the home.
- Sand and refinish timber floors for a fresh look
- Deep-clean carpets or replace old rugs
- Fix squeaky floorboards or loose tiles
Well-maintained floors show pride in ownership.
11. Upgrade Interior Doors and Hardware
Swapping out dated or damaged interior doors can give your home a polished, high-quality feel.
- Install new handles or knobs for a modern finish
- Repaint or replace worn-out doors
- Ensure all doors close smoothly and silently
It’s a small upgrade that buyers absolutely notice.
12. Modernise Window Coverings
Tired blinds or curtains can make your home feel outdated.
- Replace with neutral roller blinds or sheers
- Keep it consistent across rooms for a clean look
- Let in as much natural light as possible
Fresh window furnishings give rooms a stylish, cohesive feel.
13. Tidy and Upgrade the Garage
Garages matter, especially to families and tradies.
- Declutter and organise tools or boxes
- Paint the floor or add wall storage
- Show that it’s usable, spacious, and well-kept
A neat garage feels like bonus living space to the right buyer.
14. Create a Home Office Nook
Work-from-home is still going strong—give buyers a designated space.
- Use an empty corner, spare room, or hallway
- Add a compact desk, chair, and shelves
- Keep it tidy and styled to show its potential
Even a small home office can be a big selling point.
Final Thought
You don’t have to spend a fortune to add real value to your home—just a little time, effort, and smart prioritising over the holidays. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want your home to shine, these updates will help you get there faster (and probably make you fall in love with your home all over again).
