You don’t need a full renovation (or a full weekend) to make your home feel refreshed. Some of the most impactful updates are small, affordable, and totally doable in an afternoon. Whether you’re prepping for guests, thinking about resale, or just itching for a reset, these five quick-hit projects all clock in under three hours—and punch way above their weight.
By Lynn Norusis
February 2026
1. Repaint Trim and Baseboards
Time: 1–3 hours (per room)
Why it matters: Fresh white trim instantly makes a space feel cleaner, brighter, and more polished—especially in older homes.
Scuffed or yellowed baseboards quietly age a room. A crisp coat of semi-gloss white paint can bring everything back to life. Use painter’s tape, a small angled brush, and a fast-drying trim paint. Focus on high-visibility areas like entryways, living rooms, or hallways for maximum impact.
Pro tip: Wipe trim down first—paint sticks better and looks smoother.
2. Replace Door Handles or Cabinet Hardware
Time: 30–90 minutes
Why it matters: Hardware is like jewelry for your home—small change, big visual upgrade.
Swapping outdated knobs or brass door handles for modern black, brushed nickel, or champagne bronze instantly updates kitchens, baths, and interior doors. Most replacements use standard sizing, so this is usually a screwdriver-only project.
Pro tip: Keep finishes consistent throughout a level of the home for a cohesive look.
3. Install Dimmer Switches or Smart Plugs
Time: 30–60 minutes
Why it matters: Lighting control adds ambiance—and buyers notice.
Dimmer switches allow you to soften harsh lighting, while smart plugs let you control lamps from your phone or voice assistant. These upgrades add both function and a subtle “this home is thoughtful” vibe.
Pro tip: Start with dining rooms, living rooms, or bedrooms where mood lighting matters most.
4. Update Closet Lighting or Add LED Strips
Time: 45–90 minutes
Why it matters: A well-lit closet feels bigger, cleaner, and more high-end.
Battery-powered LED puck lights or adhesive strip lighting are inexpensive and easy to install—no electrician required. Motion-sensor options are especially popular and practical.
Pro tip: Warm white lighting feels more upscale than cool blue tones.
5. Clean and Refresh Outdoor Furniture
Time: 1–2 hours (plus drying time)
Why it matters: Outdoor spaces are extensions of the home—especially in warmer months.
Give patio furniture new life by washing cushions, tightening screws, and refreshing frames with outdoor spray paint or wood stain. It’s one of the fastest ways to elevate curb appeal and backyard livability.
Pro tip: Choose neutral tones so furniture works across seasons and styles.
These quick projects aren’t just cosmetic—they improve how your home lives and how it’s perceived. For homeowners thinking about selling, these are exactly the kinds of updates that make a home feel cared for and move-in ready. For everyone else? They’re fast wins that make everyday living feel better.
If you want help prioritizing projects that deliver the most value for your specific home, call anyone on the FOCUS on NoVA Real Estate team and they’d be happy to help you think it through.
