Top 5 DIY Projects to Boost Your Shawnee Home’s Value

Small Home Improvements with Big Rewards

If you’re feeling a bit cautious about splurging on home updates these days, you’re in good company. But here’s the good news: You don’t need to dive into an HGTV-level overhaul to make a big impact. Small home improvements can deliver both satisfaction and serious return on investment—and they’re much easier on the budget. The latest National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) “Remodeling Impact Report” highlights some cost-effective projects that boost your home’s value and comfort, without the jaw-dropping price tag.

This is fantastic news for anyone who might’ve had to compromise a bit when buying or is holding off on buying due to the competitive market. And for Shawnee and central Oklahoma homeowners watching their spending, here are five upgrades that can make a big difference in both your home’s value and your day-to-day life.

1. Refinish or Replace Hardwood Flooring

There’s something about hardwood floors that homebuyers just love, and we don’t see it much in newer homes. Here in Oklahoma, hardwood can stand up to our varied weather, from muddy boots in the spring to the occasional snow boot in winter. According to NAR, refinishing hardwood floors brings one of the best returns out there, with a 147% payback on an estimated $3,400 cost. Plus, it scores a perfect “joy rating,” so it’s not just about dollars—it’s about living in a space you enjoy.

If your floors have more scuffs, scratches, or dents than you’d like to see, refinishing can bring them back to life. But if you’re looking for an even bigger impact, new hardwood flooring can be a smart investment, with a 118% return. It lets you choose a wood type and finish that fit your style and durability needs. New or refinished, it’s hard to go wrong with hardwood in your home, especially with how well it performs in the Oklahoma market.

2. Insulation Upgrade

Here in central Oklahoma, we know all about the hot summers and chilly winters. With utility costs rising, insulation is one improvement that pulls double-duty. A fresh insulation upgrade can help keep your energy bills in check and make the house cozier year-round. The average cost? Around $2,500, with a full cost recovery, plus another perfect 10 on the joy scale.

You can even tackle some insulation projects yourself if you’re handy and willing to roll up your sleeves. For instance, adding fiberglass or mineral wool insulation is DIY-friendly, while spray foam might need a pro. A bit of insulation goes a long way, helping keep the warm air in during the winter and the cool air in during our scorching Oklahoma summers.

3. Closet Renovation

Closet space may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of home improvements, but it’s one of those things that just makes life easier. An organized, functional closet can make a difference in your daily routine. Imagine not having to hunt for that missing shoe in the morning rush!

Closet upgrades come in around $6,000, but they have a solid 83% return on value. You can add shelves, drawers, racks, and other handy storage solutions to make your closet fit your lifestyle. Closets are also highly customizable, so whether you’re a shoe collector or just need more storage, a closet update can help.

4. Add or Upgrade Your Laundry Area

Laundry day isn’t everyone’s favorite, but a functional laundry area can make it a little easier. Many people update their laundry spaces with extra features like a countertop, a utility sink, or cabinets for storage. FixR estimates the average remodel costs around $7,000, but you can keep it budget-friendly with a few DIY changes.

In Shawnee, where some smaller homes have laundry areas in garages or multipurpose rooms, a few simple additions like shelving or a folding area can make a big difference. Even adding a fresh coat of paint or some good lighting can help make laundry a more pleasant chore.

5. Paint One Interior Room

If you’re looking for an easy way to change the feel of a room, you can’t go wrong with a new paint color. Painting is one of the easiest DIY projects and packs a serious punch in terms of impact. It’s an inexpensive way to brighten up a space, fix scuffs or dings, and even set a whole new tone. A professional paint job can run between $900 and $1,300 per room, but a little time and effort can let you tackle it yourself.

Picking the right color can be a bit of a rabbit hole with all the choices out there, but paint brands release their “Color of the Year” palettes to help spark ideas. Fresh paint does wonders for a room’s vibe and can be the perfect starting point for bigger plans down the road.

The Bottom Line

It’s not always about going big. Sometimes the smartest choice is to start small, especially when those smaller projects bring both satisfaction and value. Refinishing your hardwood floors, adding insulation, reorganizing a closet, or just painting a room can have a surprisingly big impact on your day-to-day experience and on your home’s market value.

In Shawnee and across central Oklahoma, these small but powerful updates can keep you happy, comfortable, and confident that you’re adding value to your investment without going all-in on a massive remodel.