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20 Cosmetic Upgrades to Sell Your Home in Record Time

Caution: Project results may make your home so beautiful, you won't want to leave.

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Photo: Paige Rumore, Builder: Justin Davis. From: Brad Ramsey Interiors.

Build In Charm

From cozy window benches to stately fireside bookshelves, custom built-ins lend your home a stand-out quality that will leave a lasting impression on prospective buyers. Popular locales for built-in shelves or bookcases are living rooms, offices and dining rooms, while built-in window seats add ample charm to kids’ bedrooms, playrooms or breakfast nooks.

see more inspiring built-ins

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Photo: Marie Flanigan Interiors. From: Marie Flanigan Interiors.

Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

You might be a fan of burgundy bedroom walls but chances are, the mass population won’t feel the same. Head to the home improvement store for a few gallons of a light, neutral paint to appeal to the mass market. Light gray, beige and classic white are all fool-proof picks.

learn how to paint like a pro

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Photo: Eric Perry

Stain the Floors

Bring your beautiful hardwood floors back to life by adding a few coats of dark stain. We love this trick because not only does it give your home a handsome, fresh look but it also disguises years of wear and tear.

learn how to refinish hardwood floors

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Photo: Laurey Glenn. From: River Brook Design.

Update Your Countertops

It’s true: Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. If budget allows, invest in upgrading any dated countertops in these spaces with timeless materials like classic marble, creamy quartz or neutral soapstone. While replacing counters is certainly an investment, buyers are often more inclined to make an offer on a home that requires minimal expensive updates.

learn more about countertop materials

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