People Who Flip Homes Say These Clever Things Make Your Home So Much Nicer For Under $35

Ryan Dossey, co-founder of SoldFast, a brokerage and home flipping company, says, “We really like installing these outlets with USB ports near where a bed will go in the master. It allows people to charge their smartphones [and] watches and still have outlets for a lamp on their nightstands.” And not only do these plates have one USB-A port each, they’re also equipped with USB-C ports for even more power compatibility.

• Available colors: 2

You also can’t go wrong investing in these odor absorbers. “How a home looks is important, but so is how it smells! We like putting out these citrus-scent units during open houses that make a remodel smell luxurious,” Dossey explains. All you have to do is open them up and they’ll start absorbing smells from pets, dirty clothing, smoke, and more in spaces up to 400 square feet.

If you’re looking to tackle errant smells but are invested in curating the look of your space, this reed diffuser is another excellent option. It comes in a wide array of scents ranging from clean linen to Moroccan amber and the attractive bottle with five reeds looks elegant anywhere. For a striking finishing touch, the diffuser also includes decorative dried blooms that give it an organic feel.

• Available scents: 20

To tackle home odors from a preventative angle, these fragrance-free moisture absorbers are a clever little pick. They come with built-in hangers, so you can loop them over closet rods or bathroom hooks to absorb moisture in areas that might otherwise develop mold and mildew. They’re also popular, with over 18,000 users weighing in to give them an excellent 4.7-star overall rating.

“If your house has the classic circular lights, we like to swap them out with something a bit more modern,” Dossey says, like these flush-mount light fixtures. Not only do they offer up a streamlined look, but you can also choose between three different lighting temperatures as well. For easy setup, they come with all the screws you’ll need for installation.

According to Dossey, “If you have decent water pressure in the bathroom, upgrading to a rain-style showerhead can add a hint of luxury.” This model is an excellent option because it’s made from durable stainless steel and features 90 nozzles for a full-coverage shower experience. And since the nozzles are made from silicone, they’re less prone to buildup as well. Plus, as Dossey points out, “They come in all sorts of colors!”

• Available colors: 4

Protect your walls and doorframes with this magnetic doorstop. “I personally like these as I have a toddler who likes to slam or try to keep his door open,” Dossey adds. These will help prevent scuffs that come along with slamming to make your home look more pristine. The stopper comes with two parts: an attachment for your door, and one to put on either the floor or wall behind the door. They’re great as a buffer for damage and for holding your door open — just magnetize the two pieces together.

According to Dossey, “Another nice addition is soft-close toilet seats for bathrooms,” and it’s easy to see why. This model comes in both round and elongated shapes and features both color-matched and quick-attach hinges for easy setup. And since it closes slowly and quietly, you won’t have to worry about loud, startling slams.

• Available colors: 2

There are lots of little gadgets you can rely on to improve your overall experience at home, and according to Dossey, “A nice one for homeowners is a Wi-Fi extender for bedrooms that are farther away from the router.” This particular model comes with four antennas and can be used in houses up to 9,000 square feet. All you have to do is plug it in and pair it with your router (just hold it nearby and tap) for a stronger signal.

Cesar Villaseñor, a house flipper at Click Cash Homebuyers in Dallas, explains, “For interiors, motion-activated strip lights under kitchen cabinets and inside pantries creates an upscale ambience that elevates property perception, especially during evening showings.” With this model, you get three lighting panels with your order, all of which can be easily installed with the included adhesive tape. Each light bar features a magnetic backing, so it’s simple to remove and replace whenever you need to swap the battery.

To achieve the same ambience Villaseñor recommends in other areas of your home, reach for these LED bias lights for your TV. They plug into the USB port of your television and stick around its back perimeter with an adhesive backing. From there, use the accompanying app or remote control to change the color, adjust the brightness, and more.

These indoor LED spotlights are another upscale lighting accent that levels up your space. Perfect for highlighting plants, art pieces, or even bookshelves, they’re angle adjustable and give off a warm white glow. They plug into any wall outlet and feature a toe-tap control.

“The exterior is where first impressions matter most. Modern Masters Front Door Paint [in navy blue] sets the tone before buyers step inside,” Villaseñor says. This water-based paint has a satiny finish on both metal and wood doors and shutters. The bold hue is fade resistant and also dries quickly in just one hour.

• Available colors: 14

“I pair [door paint] with a Teeho keyless entry lock, which particularly appeals to young professionals [...] These small touches make listings stand out in a crowded market,” Villaseñor says. This convenient door lock allows you to program multiple codes, including one-time codes which are perfect for the occasional pet-sitter (or plant-sitter) while you’re away. It’s weather resistant and even has an indicator to let you know when the battery is running low.

• Available colors: 3

According to Villaseñor, “Solar path lights strategically placed create depth during twilight showings.” These lights have a classic miniature street-lamp look, making them both a practical and attractive addition to your outdoor space. They’re weatherproof and require nearly no maintenance since they automatically power on at dusk and off again at dawn.

According to Villaseñor, “In [...] bathrooms, matching hardware sets create a coordinated look that photographs beautifully,” and this bathroom hardware set is no exception. Available in a variety of finishes like matte black and brushed gold, the modern but timeless set comes with a large towel bar, a toilet paper holder, a towel ring, and two small towel hooks. And since they’re all made from durable stainless steel, they can stand up to wear and tear.

• Available colors: 8

“For properties targeting first-time buyers, focus on smart home features,” Villaseñor advises, and this pair of smart plugs does not disappoint. They essentially turn any electronic into a smart gadget, because you can pair the sockets to the compatible phone app or even voice-control assistant like Alexa. From there, you can easily power them on and off or set them on a timer remotely.

Echoing Villaseñor’s appreciation of smart devices, these smart LED light bulbs are also an excellent purchase for making a property feel more luxe. These bulbs connect with the corresponding app and have voice command functionality, so you can dim them or power them off with ease. And with a whopping 16 million colors to choose from, you’ll be able to customize your space in no time.

You can keep tabs on what’s happening even when you’re away from home with this smart indoor security camera. It syncs with an app for remote monitoring and has a unique, rotating head that will turn to follow motion when detected. It even offers up two-way audio so you can speak to house-sitters (and pets).

• Available colors: 2

Sometimes it’s not just about the smart gadgets you have but the way they’re displayed, which is where this outlet mount for Echo Dot comes in. It plugs into your AC outlet and perfectly cradles your speaker so it won’t clutter your surfaces. Its strategic grip won’t obstruct sound quality and it offers up cord management for a clean overall look.

• Available colors: 2

If you’re looking for a quick flourish on a budget, this faux crown molding is a solid option. “In older homes, foam crown molding in main living areas looks surprisingly upscale once painted,” Villaseñor says. This particular option is made from PVC which you can cut and trim to your exact dimensions. From there, simply stick it in place thanks to the adhesive backing.

And if you’re looking to bring those same upscale finishing touches all the way down the wall, this vinyl baseboard can’t be beat. It can be cut down to size and sticks in place with adhesive tape, bringing a high-end look with minimal effort and cost. And since it’s waterproof, it’s easy to damp clean.

• Available colors: 11

“Never underestimate the power of LED night-light switch plates,” Villaseñor advises, adding, “They're a subtle touch that buyers constantly mention during walk-throughs.” These wall plates have a small, discreet switch that lets you power the guide light on and off when it gets dark. You can even dim the brightness level of the LED bulb as well.

• Available colors: 3

According to Chris Turner, owner and designer at Elevate by Design in Colorado, “A good wood polish, like Howard Feed-N-Wax, can bring dull furniture, cabinets, or wood trim back to life.” Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating, this polishing conditioner is so easy to use: Just buff it on with a cloth, let it sit, and then wipe it away. “For just a few bucks, it adds depth and richness, making old wood look cared for and high-end again,” Turner adds.

Refresh your space with this wood furniture repair kit that will make your furnishings look newer in minutes. The set comes with six wood-toned markers in shades like walnut and cherry, so you can color in small scuffs for a clean look. For slightly deeper gouges, fill them in with the corresponding wax crayons.

“Replacing outdated or harsh lighting with soft white LED bulbs is an easy way to make a space feel brighter and more inviting. They’re energy efficient, affordable, and available in warm tones that create a cozy atmosphere,” Turner says. These bulbs are instantly relaxing and use just 9.5 watts of power for an equivalent 60-watt glow, so they’ll be easy on your electric bill. And since they’re dimmable, they’re versatile as well as inviting.

These sleek drawer pulls are another low-effort switch. According to Turner, “Swapping out old, dated cabinet knobs or pulls for modern hardware can refresh a kitchen or bathroom. You can easily find stylish options for $35 or less, and it’s a simple DIY job that makes a big difference.” These pulls have a unique profile thanks to their rectangular shape with an arched center that’s easy to grab. Besides this champagne bronze option, they come in finishes like brushed nickel and matte black.

• Available colors: 5

Another option for a quick furniture or cabinet makeover are these solid brass knobs. They have a rounded shape with ribbing around the perimeter and come with the screws you’ll need to install them on your doors and drawers. And since brass is such a classic hardware finish, they’re bound to work well with a variety of decor types.

“A small pack of peel-and-stick tiles can transform a tired kitchen or bathroom backsplash. It’s budget friendly, renter safe, and makes the space look much more modern,” Turner says. You can’t go wrong with this classic subway tile with high-contrast black grout for a bold, finished look. Just trim the tile panels to size and use the ultra-strong glue to stick them in place.

• Available colors: 5

To get that same updated look on your floors along with the convenience, these peel-and stick floor tiles can’t be beat. They come in a range of fun, graphic patterns with a retro feel — plus they have the same ease of installation as the backsplash tile Turner recommends. And since they don’t have any tacky residue, they’re a cinch to remove and replace, too.

• Available colors: 8

You’ll definitely want to consider these duplex outlet covers as part of your home makeover as well. According to Turner, “Old, discolored plates can make a space look dingy. Swapping them out for clean, modern versions is one of the cheapest ways to upgrade a room.” The design is simple but elegant and the listing also has options for toggle light switches.

You can score the same cheap, modern upgrade for your switches with this wall switch plate that capitalizes on crisp, clean lines. Available in black, white, and almond, it feels super current thanks to its simple aesthetic. Perhaps more impressively, it has a stellar 4.8-star overall rating after more than 4,000 users weighed in.

• Available colors: 3

“Adding a small plant or two can liven up any space. They’re low maintenance and bring a pop of freshness to rooms without spending much,” Turner says. But if you struggle to keep greenery alive, these faux plants are an excellent choice. Each plant features lush faux fronds and comes in a ceramic-inspired planter that looks right at home on shelves and tables alike.

Whether you’re decorating with artificial plants or the real thing, your greenery will look so striking in these ceramic planters. The planters boast an effortlessly cool ombré effect and come with two pastel colors per order for a complementary look. Each one comes complete with drainage holes so that your plants’ roots have a chance to thrive.

• Available colors: 3

If you want to add more than just a pop of greenery, this corner plant stand is for you. It features six tiers of staggered shelving, creating a layered effect that mimics a cascading tree. And thanks to the wood construction, it has a rustic vibe that’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. If you’re squeezed for space, you can opt for narrower versions as well.

• Available styles: 11

Shawn Fergeson, owner of EMC House Buyers in Houston, Texas, explains, “Using an exterior house wash such as Mold Armor or a similar product does wonders to freshen up a home.” This particular formulation works on both mold and mildew, comes with a convenient spray applicator, and doesn’t require any scrubbing. “This is often an overlooked area when selling a house, but is the first thing you see when driving up to a property,” Fergeson adds.

Ryan Fitzgerald, real estate expert at Raleigh Realty says, “When you’re staging or upgrading a home, sometimes it’s the small, affordable changes that leave the biggest impression. A motion-sensing footlight in a hallway or bathroom can make a home feel smarter and more practical.” These unobtrusive LED lights are not only wireless for practical reasons, but easy to set up thanks to the included screws and adhesive backing. They’ll automatically turn off after 30 seconds of inactivity, too. “At night, it adds just enough light to guide you safely without turning on a full light, and it’s one of those details buyers notice when they imagine themselves living in the space,” Fitzgerald adds.

Following Fitzgerald’s advice, these motion-sensor night-lights also make a great addition. These plug-in lights have an elevated, sconce-like design that’s a far cry from the night-lights you grew up with. They’re easy on your energy bill, too, since they’ll turn off after 60 seconds of inactivity.

According to Fitzgerald, “Wall sconces can completely change the vibe of a living or dining room. Replacing harsh overhead lighting with warm, focused light from sconces makes a space feel inviting.” This hardwired dimmable sconce has a matte black finish and a sleek, geometric design. It takes two bulbs and can be used with both halogen and LED options. “They’re easy to install, and there are plenty of budget-friendly options that can match any style. It’s one of those upgrades that feels much more expensive than it actually is,” Fitzgerald explains.

• Available colors: 3

Or, you could opt for this plug-in sconce if you prefer to skip wiring (although it can be hardwired if you like). This fixture features an industrial-style metal shade with a wooden dowel for contrast. Better yet, this sconce is dimmable, too, allowing you to create soft mood lighting.

• Available styles: 8

An often overlooked area of improvement is the closet, and this adjustable closet rod can help. “Adding a second rail in closets is simple, but transforms how the space functions. Doubling the hanging space is especially useful in smaller homes or apartments, and buyers appreciate clever ways to make the most of storage. It’s a practical change that doesn’t cost much but adds real value,” Fitzgerald says. This rod adjusts from 27 inches all the way up to 48 inches and can easily be installed above or below your existing rod.

• Available colors: 2

If you’re not inclined to permanent installation, this hanging closet rod couldn’t be simpler to use. All you do is hang the hooks over your existing rod (just like a clothing hanger) to suspend the extra rail right below. Simply adjust the length of the nylon strap with the slider bar until the rod is hanging at the perfect height.

“A bidet attachment is an upgrade you might not think of immediately, but it’s becoming more popular,” Fitzgerald says, adding, “It’s affordable, quick to install, and gives any bathroom a modern edge. People are always looking for those extra touches that improve comfort, and this is one they’ll remember.” This model has adjustable pressure control so that you can customize the level of spray. It’s ultra thin and self cleaning for convenience.

Fitzgerald says, “For bathrooms, recessed shelving in the shower is a functional and aesthetic improvement. If you’re not ready for a full remodel, even small built-in shelves can make the space feel updated and more efficient. It keeps toiletries neat and creates a clean, organized look,” he explains. If built-in shelves aren’t in the budget, options like these shower shelves can pack a big bang for your buck. They’re rust resistant, can support up to 20 pounds, and come with hanging hooks as well. Plus, the clean, modern design won’t detract from your style.

• Available colors: 4

A more minimalist shower storage option is this chic glass corner shelf. If you mount it upright, the stainless steel rail acts as a guard for your shower products, but if you mount it upside down, it acts as a bonus towel bar. It’s a simple and classic way to add storage without a remodel.