Before you list your home for sale, look for areas in your home you can enhance with new:

Lighting

Light fixtures can also be an inexpensive upgrade. You can purchase a new dining room chandelier for $100 to $200 and it will completely change the look of your room.

In older homes lights may be hardwired in vs. newer fixtures that simply clip into existing wiring. If you are knowledgeable with electricity you may be capable to do these upgrades yourself, but if you aren’t, I would recommend you consult with a contractor or electrician who can safely switch out the fixtures.

If you’re a capable do-it-yourselfer, a good kitchen upgrade is to get rid of that ‘80s fluorescent ceiling tube light. It will involve some texture and painting to the ceiling, but swapping out a bulky light for a decorative pendant fixture or recessed lighting in the kitchen is a big plus, and it can be done over one to two weekends.

Avoid clear or globe-less ceiling-mount light fixtures, even in closets and garages. Naked light bulbs are not attractive. You don’t have to spend a fortune either. A $20 basic “Home Depot special” in place of those old hall/ceiling fixtures will do the trick. Oh, and if you have those 4- to 8-bar vanity lights, use bulbs designed for vanities that ALL MATCH. Compact fluorescent bulbs save on energy, but they don’t show well in vanities. Use them in covered lights. I personally like to use GE Reveal bulbs wherever I can. They aren’t the most efficient for lifespan, but I like the brighter “natural” light.

Keep in mind, ceiling fans with lights are good buys. Not only do ceiling fans help circulate air, thus conserving heating and air conditioning costs, but you can install them in most ceiling-mount light fixtures.

And don’t forget about exterior lighting. Motion-sensor porch lights are nice replacements for older fixtures, and a few stake solar walkway lights can enhance your front and rear yard landscaping. Not all buyers will first view your home during the day. Lighting the walkway and creating a welcome atmosphere for evening visitors is an added plus.