Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Gardening
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Holidays
  • Rooms
  • Shopping
  • News

Profile Menu

Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      Don't let these pesky plants crash your garden party! The first step is to know your enemy. Then you'll know the best way to deal with your weed problem. Read More
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are stoked with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening
    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas
    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    With so many types of house styles, narrowing the list down to your favorite can be overwhelming. We'll show you the top 10 most popular house styles, including Cape Cod, country French, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, cottage, Mediterranean, ranch, and contemporary. Here's how to tell the differences between each architectural style.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing
    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking
    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you're a beginner baker who's just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We'll help you set up a baking essentials kit for beginners with 21 pastry tools. For those who already own these handy tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflé dish. Building your essential baking tools and equipment inventory starts here.
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating
    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays
    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement, has grown into a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Valentine's Day
    • Mother's Day
    • Easter
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July/Memorial Day
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • New Year's
    • Juneteenth
    • Hanukkah
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms
    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • Shopping
  • News

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Home Improvement Ideas
  3. Moving
  4. Selling Your Home
  5. 12 Low-Cost Tricks to Help You Sell Your Home Fast

12 Low-Cost Tricks to Help You Sell Your Home Fast

Sheryl-Geerts headshot
By Sheryl Geerts Updated April 06, 2020
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Front of white house with pink front door
Credit: John Bessler
When your home hits the real estate market, you typically want it to be scooped up by a buyer as quickly as possible. To help your home sell fast, enhance your home's value by investing time and money in minor projects that will boost its appeal. These simple repairs and inexpensive updates will help your home look its best so prospective buyers won't be able to pass it up.
Start Slideshow

1 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Neutralize Your Home

Living room with stone fireplace and white couches
Credit: Emily Followill

To sell your home quickly and appeal to the largest possible buying segment, use a neutral palette throughout your home. The eye can roam freely through a neutral palette, so the space feels more expansive. If you have a vibrant hue on your walls, consider painting over it with a neutral shade. This lets potential buyers see themselves and their interests in the blank space. Lastly, take down wallpaper or borders to make your home appeal to a broad range of potential buyers.

1 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Complete Needed Repairs

front yard landscaping makeover home exterior driveway trees green

If something needs repair, fix it. Chances are you've become accustomed to your home's flaws, but a home buyer will less likely overlook imperfections. For safety, fix uneven or badly cracked cement on the front walk, repair loose railings, and replace broken windows and panes that can raise security issues. Owner neglect will only lower the asking price or lengthen the time required to sell. Additionally, ask a realtor to point out what other repairs need to be done to your home before it goes on the market. Homebuyers often require a professional inspection, so it's wise to already be one step ahead of the game. Make needed repairs before the first open house to save you stress and money in the long run.

2 of 12

3 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Minimize Clutter

linen closet storage shelving containers
Credit: Lincoln Barbour Photo

An organized home will help buyers see its potential while also giving rooms a more spacious feel. Sort through your belongings and pitch anything you don't need or that isn't going with you to the new home. Pack up unsightly or distracting items that are not necessary for the sale. This includes toys, out-of-season clothing, and everything on kitchen counters. Sell items that won't fit with the size or style of your new home.

3 of 12

Advertisement

4 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Freshen Your Landscaping

Front of white house with pink front door
Credit: John Bessler

Keep the grass nicely trimmed to give your yard a welcoming first impression. Cut and trim all trees and bushes so that an overgrown landscape doesn’t distract from your home's beauty. Welcome potential buyers with a pot of flowers on the doorstep. If you have a porch or a deck, clean outdoor furniture.

4 of 12

5 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Update Kitchen Cabinetry Hardware

Kitchen with white stove and patterned rug
Credit: John Bessler

Special attention must be given to the kitchen, as it is often considered the heart of the home. Changing out handles and knobs to a brass or silver finish can drastically update the look of your cabinets. Home centers sell several hardware options that are affordable and stylish.

5 of 12

6 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Upgrade Your Flooring

Kitchen with wooden floors and tall table
Credit: Jeff Herr

Expose hardwood floors to enhance the look and value of your home. The popularity of hardwood floors is undeniable and can drastically raise your asking price. Buyers are seeking out natural-looking surfaces for every space. If you don’t have hardwood floors, install beige carpet to make a home seem fresher.

6 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Clean Your Home Thoroughly

Cleaning supplies in wire basket
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour

An immaculate house is a sure selling point. Clean the carpet, scrub the walls and trim, and pick up all loose items in all rooms. Keep appliances spotless by cleaning off the top of the refrigerator and the handles on your refrigerator, dishwasher, and oven. Reduce clutter and maximize the appearance of workspaces by cleaning counters of small appliances, food, and papers.

7 of 12

8 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Rearrange Your Furniture

living room furniture arrangement with fireplace

Make your rooms seem larger by creating clear traffic patterns with your furniture arrangement. Traffic should be directed around the conversation core. Also, when placing furniture in a room, pay attention to its visual weight, not just its actual size. Light-color furniture or pieces with thin, tapered legs appear lighter than dark or boxy upholstered pieces.

8 of 12

9 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Paint Your Front Door

bright yellow front door on house with blue siding and plants
Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Make a statement with a colorful front door. A fresh coat of paint can work wonders on any surface, and a bright hue ensures that your home will stand out in a neighborhood of neutral colors. Simple materials you likely already have on hand (paint, primer, and brushes) keep costs low.

9 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Play Up the Light

Living room with white couches and blue accessories
Credit: Robert Brantley

Take advantage of all available light to help enlarge your home's rooms. Use white or pale colors, which increase the brightness of a room by reflecting light. Keep window treatments simple and avoid blocking the windows with heavy layers of fabric.

10 of 12

11 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Light Up Pathways

lighted solar lights along stone walking path
Credit: Marty Baldwin

A well-lit path to your home is both welcoming and safe as providing illumination extends hospitality to visitors and makes walking more secure. High illumination isn't necessary, and downlights will prevent glare. Individually lit pavers can also be used to light a pathway.

11 of 12

12 of 12

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Dress Up Your Front Porch

porch yellow swing bold patterns colors decor
Credit: Blaine Moats

Welcome buyers with a few pots of seasonal plants and a decorative door mat. If your porch is large, make sure there's a comfortable seat or swing in good condition on which guests can sit. Check that steps and railings are stable and in good repair.

12 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Sheryl Geerts

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 12 Neutralize Your Home
    2 of 12 Complete Needed Repairs
    3 of 12 Minimize Clutter
    4 of 12 Freshen Your Landscaping
    5 of 12 Update Kitchen Cabinetry Hardware
    6 of 12 Upgrade Your Flooring
    7 of 12 Clean Your Home Thoroughly
    8 of 12 Rearrange Your Furniture
    9 of 12 Paint Your Front Door
    10 of 12 Play Up the Light
    11 of 12 Light Up Pathways
    12 of 12 Dress Up Your Front Porch

    Share & More

    Tweet Email Send Text Message
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
    Better Homes & Gardens

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Follow Us
    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithBH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Better Homes & Gardens. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

    Sign in

    View image

    12 Low-Cost Tricks to Help You Sell Your Home Fast
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.