5 High-Impact, Low-Cost Ways to Boost Your Home’s Value in Just 5 Weeks
Simple Upgrades Northern Vermont Buyers Love—Backed by Real Results
Thinking about selling your home in Northern Vermont this summer? Even if you're working with a short timeline, you still have time to increase your home’s appeal—and its value—with a few strategic updates. Better yet, many of these upgrades are either free or incredibly inexpensive. At Prime Real Estate, we’ve seen firsthand how these simple steps can lead to quicker sales and stronger offers.
Whether you're prepping a cozy ski chalet in Stowe, a rustic farmhouse in Newbury, or a classic ranch in Burlington’s outskirts, these tips work—and local buyers are looking for them.
1. Declutter + Depersonalize = Instant Square Footage
You don't need to knock down walls to make your home feel bigger. Decluttering and removing overly personal items (think: wedding photos, heavy furniture, memorabilia) instantly makes a space feel more open and allows buyers to imagine themselves living there.
Real Example: One New Haven seller cleared out their mudroom, swapped bulky storage bins for baskets, and repainted the walls. The result? Their home went under contract in 4 days—with multiple offers.
🛠 Cost: Free (or $50 for a storage unit or local dump run)
2. Refresh with Neutral Paint—Especially in Key Rooms
A fresh coat of paint is one of the highest ROI upgrades. Buyers overwhelmingly favor neutral palettes like soft whites, warm greys, or sage greens—especially in living rooms and primary bedrooms.
Why It Matters: Light paint reflects more natural light, making Northern Vermont homes (which see long winters) feel brighter and more welcoming.
🛠 Cost: ~$40/gallon. Even painting just one room can make a big difference.
3. Boost Curb Appeal—Your First Impression Counts
In a state where nature is the lifestyle, your home’s exterior needs to welcome buyers with open arms. Clean up garden beds, mow, edge the driveway, replace old house numbers, and consider placing a few native perennials by the front steps.
Real Example: A Fairfax seller spent $150 on mulch, plants, and a new doormat. They received a full-price offer within 72 hours.
🛠 Cost: Free to $150. Bonus: Vermont wildflowers from your own backyard? Even better.
4. Deep Clean Everything—Then Clean It Again
Buyers can overlook outdated fixtures, but they won’t overlook grime. A spotless kitchen, sparkling bathroom, and clean windows can add perceived value faster than you think.
Pro Tip: Clean light switches, baseboards, and behind appliances. Buyers notice the details.
🛠 Cost: Free (or ~$200 for professional cleaners if you're crunched for time)
5. Tidy Up the “Small Stuff”
Fix loose doorknobs, squeaky cabinet hinges, broken screen doors, or dripping faucets. These may seem minor, but they subconsciously signal whether a home has been well cared for.
Real Example: A Montpelier homeowner hired Prime Contracting to do a $500 fix-it list (doorknobs, paint touch-ups, trim repairs). The buyer said it felt “turnkey” and paid $12K over asking.
🛠 Cost: Free to $500 depending on what’s needed
Don’t Have Time to Tackle It All Yourself?
We’ve got you covered. Prime Contracting Company specializes in fast, professional pre-listing services—perfect for those finishing touches that make all the difference. Whether you need a few handyman fixes, a fresh coat of paint, or quick cosmetic updates before listing, our team delivers top-quality results on your timeline.
Buyers Notice. Buyers Care. You Profit.
In today’s Northern Vermont market, buyers are not just looking at square footage—they’re looking for value. Cleanliness, maintenance, and livability matter more than ever, and small, strategic changes can directly affect your bottom line.
👉 Thinking of selling this summer? Let’s create a personalized plan to maximize your home’s value before it hits the market.
📞 Reach out to Prime Real Estate today, and ask how Prime Contracting can help get your home market-ready—fast.
