The No. 1 Thing You Can Do to Boost Your Home’s ROI (& 4 Other Low-Effort Projects to Consider)

It’s no surprise that the fastest way to sell your home is to make a strong first impression, which is why every realtor makes a big deal about curb appeal. In its 2021 Cost Vs. Value Report, Remodeling Magazine found that you’ll recoup about 94 percent of the cost of installing a new garage door. Not only can it be more aesthetically pleasing—particularly models with top window panels—but many come with a lifetime warranty. Opt for one with high-tensile-strength steel, the mag recommends.

Dutch doors—where the door is divided into two halves, so you can open the top while leaving the bottom shut (like this one from Rustica)—are particularly popular right now. But, if that style isn’t right for you, there are two main guidelines to keep in mind: Stick to clean lines and consider adding privacy glass to let natural light in. (Oh, and apparently, painting said door charcoal or black could help your home sell for $6,271 more than expected.)

A “minor kitchen remodel” clocks in as Remodeling Magazine’s third-highest ROI-boosting project, but what exactly does that mean? The magazine defines it as a $26K project on average, and if you’re not ready to part with that kind of money, start simpler and focus on your cabinet doors. Maximalism may be the rage when it comes to décor, but for resale value, think minimalist: Like the front door, the less ornate, the better. Shaker styles still reign supreme, and Zillow recently found that a crisp, classic white kitchen remains the best investment. (Neutrals and dark green are also safe bets. Just whatever you do, avoid bright red, which can result in lower offers.)

Beyond sleeker cabinet doors in neutral tones, there’s one other improvement that can make a huge difference in homebuyers’ eyes: new appliances. They don’t have to be top of the line; a sleek, entry-level stainless steel range, fridge and dishwasher will do just fine. “It’s an easy way to present a home as more luxury,” Young says. Plus, it gives potential buyers the peace of mind that they’re under warranty, so they’re less likely to act up a few months after moving in. That reassurance can go a long way.

While buyers prefer neutral kitchens, it seems they’re more open to color in the bathroom, especially if it’s a light, soothing shade of blue. Zillow’s July 2021 paint survey found participants would be willing to pay 1.6 percent more for a house with a pale blue bathroom. Considering a fresh coat of paint will likely set you back less than $300—particularly in a space that small—it might be worth heading to your local hardware store and searching for swatches ASAP.