🛠️ 10 Low-Cost DIY Projects That Add Value to Your Home

Want to boost your home’s appeal without breaking the bank? The good news is you don’t need a huge renovation budget to increase your property’s value. Small, affordable DIY projects can make a big difference — whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to enjoy your space more.

Here are 10 low-cost DIY upgrades every UK homeowner can tackle to add style, functionality, and long-term value.

1. Refresh Your Walls with Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the simplest ways to transform your home. Neutral colours like soft grey, beige, or white appeal to the widest range of buyers and make rooms feel brighter and more spacious.

💡 Tip: Use tester pots before committing to a colour, and don’t forget to freshen up skirting boards and door frames.

2. Upgrade Kitchen Cabinet Handles

Replacing dated cupboard handles with sleek, modern hardware can give your kitchen an instant facelift. It’s a small change that creates a big impression for very little money.

Examples:

• Brushed brass or matt black for a modern look.

• Chrome or stainless steel for a classic finish.

  
  

3. Install Smart Lighting

Smart bulbs and dimmer switches are affordable and easy to fit. They add convenience, energy efficiency, and a touch of modern living.

Options include:

• Voice-controlled bulbs (Google, Alexa, Apple HomeKit compatible).

• Motion-sensor lights for hallways or staircases.

4. Boost Kerb Appeal with Front Door Paint

Your front door is the first thing visitors (and potential buyers) see. A new coat of exterior paint in a bold, welcoming shade can instantly lift the look of your home.

Popular choices:

• Classic navy or forest green for a timeless look.

• Bright red or teal for personality.

5. Add a Backsplash in the Kitchen

Peel-and-stick tiles or budget-friendly ceramic tiles can create a stylish kitchen backsplash. It’s a DIY job that protects your walls and adds a modern touch.

💡 Bonus: choose water-resistant, easy-clean options to keep maintenance low.

6. Create Open Storage with Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are affordable, versatile, and easy to install. They add storage while doubling as stylish displays for books, plants, or kitchenware.

To use them:

• Living room for décor.

• Kitchen for spices and jars.

• Bathroom for towels and toiletries.

7. Refresh Flooring with Rugs or Vinyl

If replacing flooring isn’t in the budget, consider stylish area rugs or peel-and-stick vinyl tiles. Both are affordable ways to cover worn-out floors and instantly improve a room’s appearance.

8. Improve Outdoor Space with Planters

First impressions count — and your garden or patio can add big value. Add DIY wooden planters or affordable pots filled with seasonal flowers for an inviting outdoor look.

9. Replace Tired Bathroom Fixtures

Swap out dated taps, shower heads, and toilet seats for modern designs. These simple upgrades can make a bathroom feel fresher without a full remodel.

10. Declutter and Organise with Built-In Storage

Smart organisation adds both function and value. Simple low-cost DIY projects options include:

• Under-stair shelving units.

• Built-in wardrobes with flat-pack kits.

• Drawer dividers or wardrobe organisers.

Final Thoughts low-cost DIY projects

DIY doesn’t have to mean big budgets or complex tools. By tackling these low-cost home projects, you can give your home a fresh look, improve its functionality, and add value if you plan to sell in the future.

👉 Want to get started right away? Download our free DIY Value-Boosting Checklist below. It includes all 10 project ideas from this article plus bonus tips on budget-saving hacks and essential DIY tools to make your projects even easier.

📂 Download the AIS DIY Value-Boosting Checklist (PDF)