Inheriting a home can be a blessing, both financially and emotionally. You stay connected with your loved ones if you decide to live here. Moreover, there’s a chance to increase your wealth by renting or selling the property.
According to the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors, a recent survey shows that more than half of Gen Z in the US expects to inherit real estate. Notably, the value of these homes has increased 500% since 1983, when Boomers first invested in them. That’s a fortune to pass on to the next generations!
However, with inheritance often comes a unique set of challenges. Many inherited properties are outdated, filled with decades-old furniture, or no longer suited to modern living standards. You may get a massive value boost with a full renovation, but it may not always be financially or practically feasible. Fortunately, a few affordable quick fixes can do the trick.
In this article, we will share a few simple upgrades that can transform an outdated home into a functional and market-ready one.
Eliminate Clutter
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Hoarding is a big problem among the older generation. Newsweek notes that Millennials are actually on the way to inheriting boomer junk. Old homes are full of useless stuff because of the consumer culture and emotional struggle to let go of possessions bought with love. The sad part is that the things elders love become a burden for their children.
The first step toward updating an outdated inherited home is clearing out excess clutter. Get rid of furniture and décor that adds weight to the overall look. While some items may hold sentimental value, most will simply make the property appear smaller and less appealing. On the other hand, a clutter-free home highlights the property’s true potential, including its size, layout, and natural lighting.
Assess and sort belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, or discard. You may even consider hiring a junk removal service or professional estate cleanout team if the task feels overwhelming. Think of decluttering as resetting the stage. By removing distractions, both you and potential buyers can focus on the best features of the home.
Get a Fresh Coat of Paint
Few updates transform a space as effectively and affordably as a fresh coat of paint. Dull, outdated walls instantly make a home feel old and drab. Conversely, fresh paint can create a clean, modern, and welcoming atmosphere. Just spend a few hundred dollars to create a place worth living or selling.
When it comes to color choices, neutral shades like soft gray, beige, or warm white make a good option. These universally appealing colors help rooms appear larger and brighter. Accent colors can be used, but do so sparingly. For example, a feature wall in the living space with a calming tone like sage green or navy blue can do wonders.
Don’t forget baseboards, door frames, and ceilings when undertaking a house painting project. A crisp white ceiling can increase the sense of height and openness. A fresh paint job gives the impression that the home has been refreshed and cared for.
Upgrade the Exterior Space
This Old House highlights the significance of curb appeal to help sell a property faster and at a better price. It quotes a study showing that curb appeal can drive a 7% increase in a home’s price. Even if you wish to live in your inherited house, a beautiful outdoor space can enhance your lifestyle.
Simple upgrades can elevate your home’s exterior at a small cost. Try DIY projects like mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and adding colorful flowers or shrubs. You can call professionals for power washing siding, driveways, and walkways to remove years of grime. Updating house numbers, a mailbox, and exterior lighting also helps. The smallest details like the exterior window trim deserve your attention.
According to Belco Forest Products, window trim has aesthetic value, but also protects your home’s structural integrity. For an outdated home, this small investment means long-term weather resistance. Even on a tight budget, small landscaping improvements can greatly increase a home’s attractiveness.
Swap Old Fixtures
Outdated fixtures are some of the biggest giveaways of an aging home. No one wants to live in or buy a place full of elements that look a century old. Why not try some easy swaps that do not burn a hole in your wallet? Yes, there are plenty of things you can change to give your inherited home a makeover.
For example, old chandeliers or faded ceiling fans can be swapped with sleek, energy-efficient alternatives. Hardware elements like cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and door handles can be upgraded with modern finishes. Try brushed nickel or matte black to give your place a contemporary look. Replace dated brass faucets or worn sink handles to refresh the bathrooms.
Fixtures are individually inexpensive, but they collectively transform kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces into current, livable environments.
Install Smart Features
Today’s buyers and renters often value technology just as much as style. The booming smart home market in the US highlights the popularity of this concept. According to Grand View Research, the smart home market was worth nearly $23.72 billion in 2024, and is expected to grow at an impressive 23.4% from 2025 to 2037. The market is fueled by factors like sustainability and energy efficiency.
You don’t need to overhaul the entire property with costly automation. Just investing in a few modern smart features can set the home apart. Smart thermostats provide more than convenient temperature control as they also boost energy savings. Smart doorbells are great for added security and modern curb appeal. You can install smart lighting systems for energy efficiency and design sophistication.
Such touches upgrade the home’s functionality and bring it in line with modern expectations. The best part is that you can achieve them without a massive renovation budget.
FAQs
What to do with an inherited property?
An inherited property can be a gold mine for a person, and it can be used in many ways. You can live in the home if it has a good location. Consider selling it if you already own a primary home and want to convert your inheritance to cash. Renting is another option for people looking for passive income and long-term growth.
How to maximize the value of an inherited home?
A few strategic upgrades can increase the value of an inherited property, no matter how old it is. Start by decluttering and assessing the current condition of the house. Pick essential repairs and get a few aesthetic and functional upgrades according to your budget. Remember to invest in exterior improvements as well.
How to sell an outdated home fast?
Speedy sales for outdated homes often hinge on presentation and pricing. Consider staging the home with minimal, modern furniture and décor. Also, improve curb appeal to attract buyers right from the listing photos. Work with a realtor who understands the local market and can price competitively. You may also sell “as-is” if you prefer not to invest time or money in upgrades
Updating an inherited, outdated home doesn’t have to require a total remodel or massive investment. By focusing on a few smart, quick fixes, you can transform the look and feel of the property. Whether you plan to live in it, rent it out, or sell it, these improvements allow the property to shine in the housing market.
