Fix It or Forget It? DIY Projects That Add Value—and Those That Don’t

From quick DIY wins to risky renovations, find out the home projects that can boost resale value—and which ones to skip—so you can invest smarter before you sell.

By: Melissa Dittmann Tracey

Thinking about rolling up your sleeves before you list your home? Not all DIY projects are created equal—and some can even hurt your resale value. In this episode of Real Estate Today, we break down the smart upgrades that pay off, the fixer-uppers worth your time and the projects best left to the pros.

Real estate broker and residential designer Elizabeth Lord-Levitt shares what today’s buyers actually want—and what you should never attempt yourself. Then, real estate pro Michelle Doherty weighs in on which fixer-uppers offer real returns—even for beginners—and which ones could be money pits in disguise. Architect Don Ruthroff also offers insights into the latest home design trends shaping how homes are built and sold today. And, Michael Silva-Nash, president of Molly Maid, talks about the easiest home upgrade of all that can make the biggest difference when selling a home.