10 SIMPLE DIY PROJECTS FOR 2025

Thinking about giving your home a little love this year? These 10 DIY projects are easy to tackle, budget-friendly, and can boost your home’s resale value and curb appeal if you’re planning to sell down the line.  

# 1. Organize Your Pantry

 An organized pantry isn’t just for Instagram—it’s a practical feature that simplifies your life (and your future buyers love). January is the perfect time to tackle this project because many stores have sales on storage and organization items, making it more affordable to upgrade your pantry with clear containers, labels, and baskets.  A tidy pantry can make your kitchen feel more spacious and functional.

 # 2. Declutter!!!

 There’s nothing like a clutter-free home to make it feel larger, brighter, and more appealing. Decluttering has also been shown to reduce stress levels and make people feel better, creating a more peaceful and enjoyable living environment. Donate, recycle, or toss items you no longer need.  

Pro tip: Utilize the cold winter days to tackle this project.  If you have a lot of rooms/closets to declutter, try tackling one room at a time so you don’t become overwhelmed AND you’ll quickly see your progress.  Yes, it may take some time, but decluttering will make you feel better about your space AND it will be much easier to prepare your home when it’s time to sell. 

# 3. Retrofit Can Lights with LED Inserts 

If you’re like me, it’s so frustrating to have a can light bulb stop working, search through a million bulbs at the store to find the right one AND then pay an outrageous amount for the bulb!  Instead, consider changing the can lights with the new LED retrofit lights.  The lighting is energy-efficient, long-lasting and has adjustable brightness.  Best of all, you never have to change the bulb.  Retrofitting can lights is a simple upgrade that doesn’t require any special skills.  You can buy them in bulk on Amazon and follow YouTube videos if you need more instructions. 

 Pro tip: LED lights make your home feel updated and environmentally friendly – items buyers prioritize.

 # 4. Replace or Add New Hardware in Kitchens and Bathrooms

Whether you’ve never had hardware on your kitchen cabinets or it’s time for a refresh, swapping out cabinet knobs and drawer pulls is a quick way to modernize your space. Matte black and brushed gold are trending finishes for 2025 and can give your kitchen or bathroom an instant facelift.  

Pro tip: Buy a hardware template if your cabinets have never had hardware to make installation a breeze and ensure all the handles are at the same height/position.  You can find the template online or any big box store.

If your cabinets have existing hardware, it’s much easier to use the existing holes so be sure to measure the distance between the CENTER of each hole (center to center).  This will help ensure you’ve ordered hardware that will fit your existing holes.

 # 5. Caulk Everywhere!

This may seem like a silly item to have on the list but there are SOOOO many reasons you want to do this.  Everything from windows, bathtubs, toilets—you name it --needs fresh caulk (unless you’ve just moved in a new build).  Fresh caulk not only prevents water damage, mold in bathrooms, and drafts, but also gives your home a polished, well-maintained look.  When the weather warms up, be sure to walk around the outside of your home and caulk as needed.

Pro tip: Buyers will notice! Little signs of upkeep like this signal a home that’s been cared for, which is always a plus. Bonus:  You’ve removed a common repair item on an inspector’s report.

 # 6. Clean Out the Garage

A tidy garage will save you $$ because you’ll know where everything is located and what you have on hand. The bonus is a welcoming sight every time you pull into the garage. Sweep out debris, organize tools, and consider installing shelves or hooks to make the space more functional. 

Pro Tip: If you need ideas, check out YouTube and Instagram Reels showing garage storage ideas using the yellow and black storage bins from the big box stores.

An organized garage also signals to buyers that your home has ample storage (a definite must with Texas garages that are often small).

 # 7. Paint or Restain Your Front Door

Your front door is one of the first things YOU and your guests notice about your home. A fresh coat of paint or a sleek new stain can instantly elevate curb appeal. Consider bold colors like deep navy or classic black—they’re on trend for 2025.  If you do sell your home, know that buyers love a home that makes a statement from the curb. 

Pro tip: Check with your HOA on permitted colors. 

 # 8. Large Planters at Your Entry

Your front door deserves some beautiful planters. Consider large planters (as large as you have space) so the scale is proportional to your door.  Then fill the planters so they are overflowing with seasonal flowers make your entryway feel inviting. Choose bold, colorful blooms in spring and summer, or go for ferns and evergreens and twinkle lights in winter.   

Pro tip: You have seconds to make a first impression with buyers and this small touch provides a welcoming and attractive entry.

 # 9. Black Mulch in the Spring (and Add Glue!)

Fresh mulch ties your landscaping together, and black mulch offers a clean, sophisticated look. Using mulch glue ensures it stays in place, even on windy days, keeping your yard looking pristine.

Pro tip: Black mulch makes landscaping photographs really “pop.”

 # 10. Trim Bushes and Trees

Overgrown landscaping can make a home look neglected. Trim your bushes and trees to create a clean, open feel.  You can even rent tools at Home Depot to help with this project.  Tree limbs too large or too high? Then call the professionals.  Reach out to your trusted Realtor for recommendations.

Pro tip: Be sure to trim so nothing is touching the roof or the home.  Most insurance companies will “flag” your home if limbs are in contact (yes, this has happened to me!). 

If you’re considering selling your home, this is another item an inspector will check.  Taking care of these items up front will eliminate this item from the inspector’s report.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re ready to refresh your space or contemplating selling your home, these DIY projects can make a big impact. Plus, many are simple enough to tackle many in as little as a day.  Ready to roll up your sleeves and get started? You’ll love the finished result (and potential buyers) will thank you!

Any questions? As always, feel free to reach out.