Whether you want to do minimal updating or are looking to increase the resale value of your home, there are some simple things you can do to make those changes. Here, we offer suggestions from three area design and home-builder gurus.

A Quick Refresh

When seeking a quick refresh for a seasonal change or an upcoming event, Nicole Ertel, Tavistock’s director of interiors, recommends making small changes, such as adding new decorative pillows, rearranging existing accessories or incorporating a new area rug. 

   “Rearranging smaller furniture pieces can also provide a fresh look for any room,” says Ertel. “Additionally, adding flowers, plants and trees is an inexpensive way to enhance your home.”

   Want to know if a house is dated? Look at its floors, and the home’s colors—a quick refresh of these two things will leave the home looking clean and modern, says Clay Wooten, president of Wooten Built, Inc., in Winter Park, a custom-home builder, developer, and real estate broker-associate in Central Florida.

Make Your Space Feel More Open

The simplest way to create a sense of space in any room is by removing clutter. Consider the room’s purpose, says Ertel, and, if necessary, incorporate tasteful storage solutions. 

   “Arrange larger furniture pieces strategically, positioning them away from main pathways to enhance the feeling of openness,” Ertel adds. “If the room is on the smaller side, try to minimize the use of patterns and opt for neutral colors for flooring or accent rugs.”

   Lighting and hardware can make a big difference, says Jamie Gernert, owner of WYC Designs, who renovated this issue’s cover home. 

   “They are things that you utilize every day and can help create a mood,” she says. “I also think there is power in paint and window treatments. Layered textures can make a space feel more comfortable but also elevated.”

Revamp a Room

“Revamping just one room at a time can be a fun project,” says Ertel. “While it’s essential to consider the specific room, I enjoy experimenting with bespoke removable wall coverings, updated window treatments, blinds and drapery that suit the space.” 

Even adding a new piece of framed art can completely transform a room’s personality, Ertel adds. 

   “Have fun expressing yourself with a bold pop of color or a personal accessory, and don’t hesitate to blend the old with the new.”

Change Up Your Exterior Look

According to Ertel, the exterior facade of your home creates the first impression and establishes the design tone for the entire property. 

   “Landscaping is a crucial element that should complement the architectural style of your home,” she says. “Keep it simple by using native plants that thrive in your region and consider incorporating flowering trees to add vibrant touches of color.”

To enhance your landscaping, she adds, good landscape lighting, along with decorative lighting, provides the perfect finishing touch. 

Increase the Value of Your Home!

“Updating a house will, in general, increase the value of your home if you’re not going to add square footage,” says Wooten. “The two primary drivers where you’ll be able to see an increase in value are the main suite area and the kitchen.”

Some easy things to try:

• Paint your interior a light color—it makes the house look more airy

• Add a summer kitchen for cooking outdoors—outdoor living is important

• Update your kitchen island (or add one) by using an accent color complementary to the color of your cabinets 

“My go-to simple tips include refreshing the interior paint and updating ceiling fans and decorative light fixtures,” says Ertel. “Small details, such as new or dimming light switches, and updated power outlets and covers, can make a noticeable difference.”

Major updates that significantly enhance value include updating cabinetry in the kitchen and bathrooms, refreshing flooring and improving curb appeal with thoughtful landscaping, exterior paint and updated house numbers, she adds.

Wooten echoes that sentiment.

“Curb appeal is a big thing,” he says. “Try something that gives your home more personality, such as adding shutters or painting the front door a cool accent color.”

Wooten cautions against making any updates that are too unique, which may turn off potential future buyers. His rule of thumb: look to what 70 percent of people in the market would want in their home.