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.

Casey TeVault, owner of house flipping company, Casey Buys Houses, says, “Small updates we always do are new door handles throughout the house, including the front door.” There’s no doubt, your front door is the first thing a visitor will see in your home. This black matte door handle is a timeless option, and plenty of reviewers have installed this both inside and on the exterior of their house. It’s even reversible for right- and left-sided entry.

Another way to implement TeVault’s advice is to opt for a simple doorknob, like this black matte round knob. The simple design of this knob has made it one of the most popular options on the market, with a glowing 4.7-star average rating after 8,000 Amazon reviewers. The black matte is a modern choice, but this also comes in a few metal finishes. You can also choose to opt for the option with a key entry, if having a lock on your door is a priority.

“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.

“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.

It’s important to also consider the outside of your home, as well. TeVault says, “If the outside is overgrown and neglected, the buyer has doubts on the house before they even step inside.” So take it from the home flipper, and invest in a few tools to keep your yard looking beautiful. This stainless steel garden hose is a good purchase, and has a 25-foot reach to get to every corner of your yard. The pressure nozzle can also spray water nine different ways, so you can customize to your yard’s needs. Need a longer hose? This one comes in multiple sizes that reach up to 200 feet.

To give a little refresh to your grass, consider spraying some lawn food. This lawn fertilizer can be applied via a simple watering can, or you can buy Miracle-Gro’s garden feeder that attaches to your hose. Spray over your grass every four to six weeks and it’ll start to grow greener and thicker wherever the fertilizer is. This 5-pound bag can service up to 7,200 square feet of yard.

One easy way to invest in the look of your outdoor space, per TeVault’s advice, is to put down pathway lights. These solar-powered pathway lights are great for illuminating driveways and paths to your door. They charge during the daylight for six to eight hours, and then turn on automatically at dusk. Easy and effort-free.

One upgrade TeVault always adds in his homes? “New mirrors and lighting in bathrooms.” This black round mirror measures 24 inches in diameter, and looks so good over your bathroom sink. This comes in a range of sizes and in both a matte black and gold finish, so you can have your pick to match your space.

TeVault says, “The right mirror and lighting can make most bathrooms look and feel bigger than they really are.” This light fixture is great for over your mirror or vanity. It features three bulbs, each encased in a timeless glass shade. The matte black finishes are classic, but this comes in gold, nickel, brass, and bronze finishes, and a four-light option.

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

“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.

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.

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.

Jack O'Neill, house flipper with O'Neill Home Buyers LLC, says, “An under $35 product that I use in my flips that's affordable but adds aesthetic value is upgrading the kitchen and bath handles and knobs to flat black or gold.” These 5-inch brushed gold cabinet handles are beautiful, and quite an accent for your kitchen. This is a set of two, but you can also get them in a pack of 12 if you want to outfit an entire kitchen.

Another way to implement O’Neill’s advice? Swap in matching hardware for your bathroom. This set comes with a toilet paper holder, a towel bar, a towel ring, and two towel hooks. Swap out everything in your bathroom all at once and you’ll have a streamlined look that upgrades the room in just a few minutes.

Nick Disney, house flipper with Sell My San Antonio House, recommends looking upgrading your light fixtures with affordable but chic options. “If you are looking for an item under $35 dollars to use in your home flips, start searching on Amazon when you are looking for new lighting fixtures.” He recommends this one, which comes with two flush-mount LED ceiling lights. These feature a black matte finish, but they’re also available in nickel.

Another beautiful lighting option that requires no wiring, this rattan pendant light is easy to mount where you want it. It comes with a 16-foot power cord to connect this to an outlet, and then has an on-off switch on the cord. This is a fun option for your home that is easy to install in any space.

Brett Johnson, professional house flipper and owner of New Era Home Buyers, says, “In kitchens, I replace the backsplash, whether with timeless subway tile or something bolder.” This green backsplash is bold and fun, but has the classic horizontal tile look of a subway tile. This comes with 10 sheets of peel-and-stick tiles that are easy to install, according to reviewers.

Johnson also says, “One high impact upgrade that almost always update is lighting fixtures. I swap out outdated fixtures with sleek, energy-efficient options that instantly elevates any space.” This ceiling fixture has a modern and artistic vibe, and features LED bulbs that’ll operate more efficiently in your space. This comes in a range of metallic shades and black matte designs.

If you can’t change your fixtures, swapping in LED light bulbs that are smart and can be controlled via your phone is a nice way to improve the look and feel of your home. This pack of four bulbs can be spread out throughout your home, and can change colors, brightness, and grayscale. Such an easy home upgrade.

Dani Gottschalk, interior designer at Tinzletown, warns that it’s hard to truly upgrade your home without paying a lot. But she recommends a place to start: “I first and foremost swap out all the tiny utilities around the bathroom, like wastebaskets, shower hangers, window squeegees, and toothbrush cups, which are mostly bought without any further consideration but essentially build the single decoration of ones bathroom.”

This motion-sensing trash can is an instant upgrade to your bathroom space. It can fit 2 gallons of trash, and has a motion sensor that opens the trash when triggered, and then closes it after five seconds of no motion. While this works great in a bathroom, you may also want to add one to your office or bedroom.

This shower caddy is a great update in keeping with Gottschalk’s advice. Its made with a durable and waterproof stainless steel, and has hooks included. It even comes with a shelf for a bar of soap, all of which easily suction to your bathroom wall.

Gottschalk recommends a shower squeegee, and this popular one will make quick work of removing fingerprints and streaks from your glass surfaces of your home. This 10-inch squeegee is a game-changer for windows and mirrors, both in your bathroom and throughout your house.

One final update per Gottschalk’s advice? This toothbrush storage cup. This has a marble look that looks super chic in any bathroom, and has storage space for toothbrushes, toothpaste, and a razor. The bottom features a water-containing tray that is easy to remove to clean.