From a Real Estate Expert Who’s Done it All!
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1. REFRESH WITH PAINT
Never underestimate the power of paint. A fresh coat — especially in lighter, neutral tones — can instantly brighten and modernize a space. I’ve used paint to do everything from highlight trim, revive kitchen cabinets, and even refresh outdated tile or wood flooring.
Want a quick win? Start with your baseboards, ceilings, or front door. These small surfaces, when updated, make a big visual impact.
Pro Tip: If you’re repainting your home – the latest stylish thing is to paint the walls and the baseboards the same color; just use an eggshell finish on the walls and satin on the moldings, doors and trim.
2. UPGRADE FIXTURES AND FINISHES
You don’t have to gut an entire room to make it feel new. Swapping out outdated cabinet hardware, lighting, or curtain rods can go a long way. I always advise my clients to look for high-impact, low-cost updates — think brushed gold knobs, clean-lined light fixtures, and fresh window treatments.
And don’t forget accessories. New throw pillows or a soft blanket can help revive a worn sofa without the price tag of reupholstery.
PRO TIP: With my investor flippers, I always suggest lighting and fans from Lowe’s. They have designer looks at a fraction of the price.
3. MODERNIZE THE TUSCAN LOOK
Many Las Vegas homes built in the late ’90s to early 2000s have that “Old World” aesthetic — dark cabinets, ornate fixtures, busy granite, and lots of heavy finishes. If that sounds familiar, the key is simplification.
Focus on easy updates that tone down the Tuscan and brighten the space:
Paint dark wood cabinets in crisp white or a soft taupe
Swap out heavy bronze hardware and light fixtures for brushed nickel or matte black
Remove decorative corbels or scrollwork for a cleaner look
If budget allows, update countertops with lighter materials or even laminate with a modern quartz look
You don’t have to start from scratch — small, intentional updates can take your home from dated to desirable.
4. DECLUTTER FOR A FRESH START
Sometimes the most powerful transformation comes from subtraction, not addition. Clearing out old, worn, or bulky items can completely change how a room feels. I always recommend starting with a deep clean and declutter before making any design changes.
PRO TIP: Group similar décor items, remove anything that doesn’t serve a purpose, and swap heavy drapes for light, airy panels. You’ll be amazed how much brighter and bigger your home can feel.
5. REARRANGE TO REFRESH
This one’s completely free and often overlooked. Simply rearranging your furniture can give your space new energy. Create better flow by floating furniture away from the walls or repositioning a seating area to emphasize a window or fireplace.
Mirrors are another powerful tool — place one across from a window to bounce natural light around and instantly brighten the room.
Giving your home a fresh, updated feel doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With the right approach — and a bit of creativity — you can transform your space and boost its appeal, whether you’re staying put or preparing to sell.
If you’re thinking about listing, don’t miss my free guides. Just ask and I’ll send it your way!
And if you’re local, check out my complimentary staging assistance — part of every listing package I offer to ensure your home stands out from the competition.