People who flip homes say these are the smartest upgrades you can make for under $35 on Amazon

The air vents may be the last thing you think of when it comes to upgrading your home — but they can have a surprising effect: “Upgrading air vents can freshen up a room,” Sherwin asserts.

With 10 sizes and 12 different finishes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding this air vent in a style that suits your home. No tools are required for installation — simply drop it into your vent and it’s ready to go. Plus, the unique mosaic pattern gives it an ultra-modern look.

An outdated railing can make any stairway feel crummy. Luckily, Tuntasood has a simple solution. “Another one of my favorites is a black pipe railing,” she tells Mic, which are ideal when deployed in “a narrow and enclosed stairway (i.e to the basement or garage).” She affirms, “Swapping out an outdated bulky wooden railing instantly gives a narrow stairway a more spacious and modernized look.”

With that in mind, she recommends this black pipe railing that can hold up to 440 pounds, making it just as functional as it is fashionable. It’s made from carbon steel, with a matte black finish that’s resistant to scratches as well as rust.

If you prefer a stationary to handheld, consider taking a look at this high-pressure rainfall showerhead. With 13 different finishes to choose from (brushed nickel, matte black, and more), you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your bathroom. It can also be installed without using any tools — and with five spray modes to choose from, don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to take a post-work shower every day.

The outside of your home is one of the biggest impressions you can make on guests, so why not give your front door a makeover? “A fresh coat of paint on front doors can completely transform a home's curb appeal,” explains Hintlian. If you aren’t sure what color to pick, she adds, “[Choosing] a bright, welcoming color, such as a classic red or deep blue, can make a home stand out in listing photos and to passersby. This is a low-cost upgrade that demands notice and sets a positive tone for the rest of the home viewing experience.”

With that in mind, this front door paint is absolutely worth its weight in gold. The water-based formula is made to last, and only takes about an hour to dry — so there won’t be any need to wait around in order to apply a second coat. And if you aren’t into red, you also have the choice of 14 other shades.

Sometimes the smallest upgrades make the biggest impact — like swapping out your light switch plates. “Upgrading wall plates and switch covers can seem trivial but can subtly enhance a room's aesthetic,” explains Hintlian. “Swapping out yellowing, plastic covers with sleek, metal options like [this one] adds a touch of elegance and modernity to any space.”

And if the stainless steel finish doesn’t suit your vibe, you also have the choice of antique brass, matte white, rose gold, as well as 12 other finishes. “For under $35, this simple switch (pun intended) can change the perception of quality and attention to detail throughout a home,” adds Hintlian.

Just because an upgrade isn’t aesthetic doesn’t mean it isn’t worth doing — like adding these dampers to your cabinet doors. “This small detail enhances the perceived quality of the cabinetry with a minimal investment,” Hintlian tells Mic. She recommends this set of soft-close adapters because they “can be applied to existing cabinetry, lending an upgraded feel to kitchens and bathrooms.”

Installation is a total breeze using nothing more than a small hand drill or screwdriver. Though if you still need a little convincing, Hintlian affirms, “These upgrades, though modest in cost, can significantly elevate a home's aesthetic, functionality, and overall appeal, creating lasting impressions that translate into real value.”

If you’d like a drill-free, low-tech cabinet-softening upgrade, consider opting for these budget-friendly adhesive bumpers. Installation is as easy as peeling off the backing, then pressing them right into place — and the transparent silicone even gives them an ultra-subtle look that blends into the door.

While the cover over your bathroom fan may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to upgrades, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve some love. “One thing we like to update in every home flip is the bathroom vent cover,” says Amy Tuntasood, realtor and home designer at Salem Home Designs. “It instantly updates the bathroom ceiling with a more modern and sleeker look, without having to change any mechanism behind it.”

She recommends this cover with a universal design, making it suitable for nearly any bathroom fan. The low profile helps it blend into your ceiling for a seamless look, and installation only takes five minutes or less — no need for any cutting or patching. Plus, several reviewers noted how quiet it sounds when the fan is running.

Taking a shower is a relaxing part of the day — unless your showerhead is a hunk of junk. Kristin Hintlian, co-owner of Bonsai Builds, has an easy fix. “One of my favorite under-$35 upgrades is the installation of a super-efficient, WaterSense-certified shower head,” she tells Mic. She recommends this high-pressure handheld showerhead, which she says “dramatically improves the shower experience while conserving water.” She calls it a “dual win” that makes “a significant selling point for environmentally conscious buyers” — while also helping mitigate concerns over ever-rising utility costs.

Though if you’re worried about installation, don’t be. Not only can you get the job done without any tools, but many reviewers were also able to get it up and running in less than 20 minutes. According to Hintlian, “It's an easy DIY update that can make an outdated bathroom feel more modern and luxurious without breaking the bank.”

A cracked and yellowing toilet seat can make even the nicest bathroom look unpleasant. “Brand new toilet seats can completely renew the look of an outdated or unhygienic looking toilet,” explains Tuntasood. “If the porcelain structure is sound and location of the toilet doesn’t need to be changed, then a quick seat change will give it an adequate facelift!”

With that in mind, this classic toilet seat is currently available for less than $20. Installation is a total breeze, as the hinges in the back lock into place without need for any tools. And, since it’s made without any metal parts, there won’t be a need to swap out any corroded bolts or pieces over time.

While the numbers on the outside of your home may be small, they can have a major impact when it comes to revamping curb appeal. “If you are trying to update the outside of your house, I recommend you get floating house numbers,” says Deba Douglas, CEO of Douglas Dwellings. “Floating house numbers are something so simple and inexpensive that can update the look of your house in minutes.”

Not only are these floating numbers sure to look good, but each one is also made from durable ABS plastic that’s moisture-, corrosion-, and weather-resistant. The dense, deep grain on the outside refracts light, making them easy to see from afar — and each order comes with three different spacer sizes so that you can adjust how high they float.

Speaking of curb appeal, a poorly lit front porch is no way to invite guests into your home. The solution? “You can also look into updating the porch lights,” says Douglas. She recommends this two-pack of LED porch lights that currently come in at under $40 for the pair. Their matte black finish gives them an incredibly modern look — and since they’re made from UV-resistant plastic, you won’t have to worry about them rusting or fading over time.

Now that your porch lights are looking good, it’s time to swap out that crusty doormat with a stylish rug. According to Douglas, “Another simple yet [easy] thing you can do is upgrade your doormat.” She’s a fan of a modern, black and white style, and recommends this rug to fit the bill. It comes in three sizes to suit nearly any front porch, and the plaid pattern is just as stylish as it is timeless. The low pile means it won’t snag on your front door as it opens, and the polyester-viscose blend is soft, durable, and fade-resistant.

If you’re thinking about giving your bathroom a makeover, Douglas tells Mic, “[There] are a few things you can get that will make your space much more modern and sleek.” She shares this faucet as an example, describing it as “a beautiful, high quality addition to your bathroom.”

Its rounded lines and simple design allow it to match with just about any decor style, and the high-performance spigot delivers splash-free water flow. You also have the choice of three finishes: black, brushed nickel, or chrome.

Another Douglas suggestion is to swap outdated light fixtures for ones that match the faucet. She recommends this vanity light fixture “to add a simple and classic look to THE bathroom,” and touts the shockingly budget-friendly price tag. It comes in four finishes, three of which are exact matches to the faucet above — though the brushed gold option is sure to give any bathroom a touch of opulence. And if your vanity is on the wider side, you can also grab it in four- and five-light variations.

To fully modernize the look of your bathroom — along with matching your faucet and vanity light — you might as well swap out the other fixtures so they also match. Douglas recommends this 14-piece bathroom hardware set. It’s available in matte black as well as brushed nickel — and each order comes with towel bars, towel rings, toilet paper holders, as well as two different styles of hooks. Plus, all pieces are made from stainless steel, helping ensure they stay looking sleek for years to come.

Swapping out fixtures with their smart versions is one of the easiest, cheapest upgrades you can do. Brian Quigley, real estate and mortgage expert at Beacon Lending, explains, “As a seasoned house flipper, one of my favorite upgrades [...] is replacing outdated electrical outlet plates and light switches with smart alternatives.”

While these smart light switches may look modest, they come with a slew of high-tech features. You can use the downloadable Kasa app to turn them on/off remotely, as well as put them on schedules so that they’re on when you come home. Or, you can opt to pair them with Alexa or Google Home so you’ll be able to control them using simple voice commands.

You don’t have to stop using your backyard once the sun goes down — instead, add some outdoor lanterns and transform it into a chic nighttime paradise. This is another favorite upgrade of Quigley’s, who shares, “Not only do they [... enhance] the overall atmosphere, but they also add a touch of sophistication.”

If that isn’t enough to convince you, these also feature built-in solar panels that keep them lit for up to 10 hours at night. And since they’re waterproof, there’s no need to take them down when it starts to rain.

Locking your door whenever you leave your home is always a good idea — the only time a problem arises is if you forget your keys. With that in mind, consider swapping out that traditional deadbolt with a keyless smart lock. “No more getting locked out of the house,” says Mark Severino, real estate investor and owner of Best Texas House Buyers, LLC. “These are easy to install and a convenient security system for homeowners and people they trust.”

This particular smart lock can store up to 103 access codes, which means you can give access to friends, family, or even delivery people dropping off packages. Plus, four AA batteries (which are not included) keep it running for up to six months, so there’s no need to swap them out for new ones anytime soon.

For an absolutely budget-friendly — and absolutely low-tech — solution for the key-forgetters out there, consider hiding a spare inside of this fake rock. Its unremarkable exterior makes it look just like a plain rock, but upon turning it over, you’ll find a hidden chamber where you can hide an extra key. “There is NOTHING to give away the fact that this hides a key,” wrote one reviewer. “It's a very realistic looking rock!!”

You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars having a professional security system installed. Instead, consider opting for a cheap security camera that won’t break the bank. Severino tells Mic that there are “a ton to choose from! Some are hardwired in, some are wifi, some you can even talk through.”

Not only is this security camera currently available for less than $30, but it also relies on your home’s Wi-Fi connection to broadcast video to your smartphone so there’s no need for any hardwiring. Plus, two-way audio lets you talk to your pets (or family) whenever you’re away from home, while the water-resistant exterior makes it suitable for outdoor as well as indoor use.

If you don’t want to deal with an active camera, Severino says, “Even a fake plastic camera will have criminals thinking twice about entering your home.” In which case, these fake cameras are worth a look. They look just like the real thing without putting any strain on your wallet. And if you pop two AAA batteries (which are not included) inside, their lenses will even light up for an extra-realistic appearance.

It doesn’t matter whether you have a German Shepherd or a Chihuahua — a “Beware of the Dog” sign can still dissuade intruders from breaking into your home. “Continuing our security thread, a cheap ‘Beware of Dog’ sign is a great security measure,” explains Severino. “Having a dog is one of the highest burglary deterrents. Even if you don't have a dog, displaying the sign is a smart security move.”

This sign is now available for just $5, but don’t be fooled. While cheap, it’s still made from durable, weather-resistant aluminum, so there’s no need to worry about how it’ll hold up from season to season. Plus, each one arrives with mounting holes already punched.

If you’re still using incandescent bulbs in your lamps, consider swapping them out with some smart LEDs. “These light bulbs are cost effective, easy to install, and practical,” Severino tells Mic. Though if the chance to shave a few dollars off your utility bills isn’t convincing enough? They’re also great for creating a relaxing vibe, and Severino goes on to say that “you can use light to completely change the mood and aesthetic of a room through both brightness and color.”

These LED smart bulbs are not only energy-efficient, but once paired with Alexa or Google Home, you’ll also be able to adjust their settings using simple voice commands. And if you don’t have either, you can still use the downloadable smartphone app to change their color, brightness, and more — no need to get up from the couch.

An outdated light fixture can make even the most beautifully decorated room feel crummy. Thankfully, Nick Disney, real estate investor and founder of Sell My San Antonio House, has an easy fix. “My favorite budget-friendly home upgrade [...] is new lighting fixtures,” he tells Mic. “[...] Upgrading the lighting fixtures will look great but it will also make your rooms look brighter and more open.”

With that in mind, this particular light is likely an upgrade from the stock fixture currently hanging from your ceiling. It comes in two finishes (black or brushed nickel), and features five adjustable light temperatures: extra-warm white, warm white, soft warm white, neutral white, or cool white. Plus, the included LED bulb even has a lifetime of up to 50,000 hours. Having some DIY know-how will help with installation, though it includes thorough instructions for laypeople.

If you like the idea of upgrading your lighting, but prefer a statement-making fixture, consider taking a look at this Sputnik chandelier. The arms can be rotated 360 degrees horizontally, making it easy to adjust them into any angle you like — and it looks just as good in bedrooms as it does over dining tables. You also have the choice of seven different finishes to complement any decor.

If your patio or yard is feeling less than complete, the answer may be as simple as adding a fire pit. “You can find a small fire pit on Amazon and combine it with a couple of inexpensive outdoor chairs,” Disney suggests. “This can help to define an open space and potential buyers can picture themselves relaxing in their new backyard by the fire.”

Not only is this fire pit small enough to fit on nearly any patio, but it also comes with a protective screen that helps keep sparks from popping out. It’s made from powder-coated steel that’s resistant to rust, and has a surprisingly affordable price. And if it’s too warm to light a fire, this fire pit does opposite-style double-duty — you can fill it with ice to use it as a cooler for drinks.

Now that you’ve added that fire pit to your setup, it’s time to complete your patio with a few of these lawn chairs. They’re made from sturdy, engineered wood that’s resistant to water, so there’s no need to bring them indoors if it starts to rain or snow. Plus, the frame is so sturdy that it can easily support up to 350 pounds.

When it comes to home upgrades, it’s all about the details. According to Joshua Eberly, co-founder of 717homebuyers, “Door handles are usually less than $20 and can make a dramatic difference in your home's appearance especially when contrasted against the color of the door (White Door/Black Handle).”

Not only does this particular door handle come in two different finishes (matte black or satin nickel), but the reversible handle also makes it suitable for left- or right-handed doors. And unlike some door handles, this one is so easy to install that the only tool you’ll need is a regular Phillips head screwdriver.

If you decide to upgrade your door handles, make sure you also change the hinges to match. “Door hinges are usually less than $3 per hinge and when matched with the finish and color of the door handle or knob, this can make for a very sharp look that will transform your living space,” explains Eberly.

These particular door hinges come out to less than $1.10 per hinge, making them one of the most cost-effective upgrades on this list. And while cheap, don’t be fooled — each one is made from tough, high-quality iron that’s built to last. And with seven finishes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble matching them to your door knob.

Another fan of matching hardware, Eberly extends the harmony to cabinetry, too. He tells Mic, “Upgrading your kitchen and bathroom cabinet pulls to a more modern style and with a finish to match your faucet and other bath hardware is a game changer.” He shares that, in his business, he’s found that “cabinet pulls that match the faucet color and shower header with modern colors are a huge selling point in bathrooms.”

These particular cabinet pulls come in seven finishes as well as eight different sizes, making them suitable for cabinets and drawers of nearly any length or height. And since they’re resistant to rust, there’s no need to worry about how they’ll hold up in humid bathrooms or kitchens.

No matter how beautifully you’ve decorated, harsh overhead lights can make any room feel unwelcoming. “Our absolute favorite upgrade for under $35 are flush mount 6" LED dimmable lights,” says Danny Johnson, owner at Danny Buys Houses. “These lights transform dark rooms instantly and give any room a elevated feeling. We routinely replace a central room light fixture with 4 to 6 of these lights to completely update the room.”

Currently only $10 per light, these LED disk lights are an absolute steal. They come in three different light temperatures, making them suitable for living areas as well as utility spaces: warm white, bright white, or daylight. Plus, you can even dim them all the way down to 10% brightness. This is an installation that benefits from some DIY knowledge, but at this price point, it’s highly worth the learning curve.

If you’re on the fence when it comes to upgrading your cabinet pull and door knobs, know that more than one expert recommends making the swap. “I do also switch out cabinet/drawer knobs and pulls [and] doorknobs [...],” says Johnson. “Those are definitely great upgrades that any homeowner can do with just a screwdriver.”

This particular door knob is so easy to install that it shouldn’t take more than a few minutes to get the job done. It fits any standard-sized door — and microban protection even keeps it up to 99% cleaner than knobs that haven’t undergone the same treatment. Choose from four finishes: matte black, satin brass, polished chrome, or satin nickel.

If handlebar cabinet pulls like those mentioned earlier don't suit your style, consider opting for these round ones. They’re suitable for cabinets as well as drawers — and each one is made from high-quality zinc alloy that contains zero lead. Choose from three finishes: black, brushed nickel, or gold.

The mailbox sitting outside is one of the first things guests see before they even think about knocking on your door. “A worn-out, old mailbox can be a major eyesore for potential buyers,” says Pavel Khaykin, founder & CEO of Pavel Buys Houses. “By simply replacing it with a new mailbox, you can give the front of your home a fresh and inviting look.” Though if you aren’t sure what kind of mailbox to go with, Khaykin recommends that you “choose a modern design or one that fits the style of your home to add curb appeal.”

Not only does this mailbox have a sleek, minimal design that will be in style for the long run, but it also comes in seven colors: red, blue, orange, black, and more. Plus, the mounting holes have already been drilled so that installation is a total breeze.

When in doubt, opting for energy-efficient upgrades is always a good idea. “Not only are energy-efficient upgrades beneficial for the environment, but they can also be attractive to potential buyers who are looking to save on utility costs,” explains Khaykin. “Some budget-friendly options include replacing old light bulbs with LED ones or installing a smart thermostat.”

These particular LED bulbs come in two light temperatures (soft white or daylight), making them suitable for kitchens, mud rooms, and every room in between. They’re so energy-efficient that they can use up to 85% less power than comparable incandescent bulbs — and with a lifespan of up to 7,000 hours, you won’t need to change them out anytime soon.

Lights that are too bright can make a room feel harsh — but if they’re too dim, they can just as easily make any space feel uninviting. The solution? “Installing dimmer switches in key areas such as the living room, dining room, and bedrooms can give potential buyers more control over the lighting and create a cozy atmosphere,” explains Khaykin. “This upgrade is not only budget-friendly but also adds a touch of luxury to any space.”

With that in mind, these dimmer switches are a total steal, now only $20 for two of them. The adjuster dial is compatible with nearly any dimmable LED, CFL, incandescent, or halogen bulb. Plus, the smart rocker switch remembers the previous setting, making it easy to instantly turn your lights on to your preferred brightness. For installation, electrical knowledge is a must.

A classic — and completely impactful — upgrade, “A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform and freshen up a space,” advises Nyx Sherwin, CEO and owner of We Buy 502. He tells Mic, “Neutral tones usually appeal to the widest audience.”

With available colors ranging from dark granite gray to a neutral shade of sage, this paint may just be the best bang for your buck on this list. Its low sheen and long-lasting coverage make it suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use. Plus, the smooth, even finish makes it less likely that you’ll wind up with visible brush strokes.

While it probably doesn’t need to be said at this point, the outside of your home makes just as big an impact on visitors as the inside. “Curb appeal matters!” affirms Sherwin. “Even on a tight budget, you can invest in some drought-resistant plants [...]. These can add charm and make a house feel more like a home.”

This live trio of drought-resistant plants is currently available for just $30. They thrive in well-drained soil, so there’s no need for constant watering. When warm weather arrives they’ll sprout gorgeous purple flowers — and since they’re perennials, they’ll continue to grow back every spring.

If you prefer to grow your foliage from scratch (and at a super-affordable price), consider using these seeds to grow a patch of wildflowers from the roots up. The seeds are non-GMO, while the flowers that’ll sprout from them will be drought-resistant, as per Sherwin’s suggestion. Each order comes with enough seeds to cover more than 100 square feet. Plus, they’re suitable for growing in USDA zones two through nine, which is basically the entire United States save for the hottest desert climates.

If there’s only one upgrade you take from this list, “Consider a smart light bulb or a smart plug,” says Sherwin. “This not only adds convenience but also modernizes the house, making it attractive to tech-savvy buyers.” This pair of smart plugs is a budget-friendly choice. Once paired with Alexa or Google Home you’ll be able to control them with simple voice commands. And if you don’t have either, you can still use the downloadable Kasa app to turn them on/off remotely, as well as put your plugged-in devices on schedules so that they’re on when you come home.

Stained grout lines can make even the cleanest bathrooms feel dingy. “Don't underestimate the power of clean lines and bright spaces,” Sherwin explains. “Recaulking bathrooms or regrouting tiles can drastically improve the look of aging spaces.”

Though if you’ve never regrouted tiles before, this silicone sealant from Gorilla Glue makes it simple. You can use it on porcelain, tile, granite, wood, or nearly any other surface, making it suitable for use in your bathroom as well as kitchen, and it only takes about 30 minutes to dry.

If you’ve got grout lines that are looking yellowed, consider taking a look at this easy, handheld tube of grout. The formula has already been mixed, so it’s ready to use right out of the tube. It easily adheres to masonry, wood, wallboard, as well as ceramic and mosaic tile. “Dries fast. Looks great. Inexpensive, compared to competitive products,” wrote one reviewer.

An organized home will always look nicer than one that’s filled with clutter. Jonathan Faccone, founder at Halo Homebuyers, tells Mic, “I recommend using drawer organizers and cabinet racks to maximize storage space in kitchens and bathrooms.”

Not only do these organizer bins have nonslip pads on the bottoms to keep them from sliding around, but each order also comes with four different sizes, making it easy to customize how they fit inside your drawers. And if you ever decide you no longer need them, their stackable design means they’ll take up hardly any storage space.

If you’ve got a closet or dresser overflowing with stuff, Faccone has an easy fix. He says, “I suggest using over-the-door hooks or hanging organizers for extra storage without taking up valuable floor space” — which is only part of the reason why this over-the-door organizer is worth a look. Five shelves give you ample storage space for everything from toiletries to cleaning supplies. Plus, the metal hooks on the top are so sturdy that they can easily support up to 44 pounds.