If you’ve been staring at your kitchen cabinets wondering if a coat of paint would finally convince you to love them, you’re not alone. Summer’s the season where Eau Claire homeowners get the itch to tackle home projects — whether to enjoy now or to prep for a future sale.
But before you drop thousands on a trendy upgrade, let’s talk about what actually adds value in our Chippewa Valley market… and what’s more likely to be a money pit.
As a local Eau Claire Realtor, I’ve seen plenty of homes that nailed it — and just as many that spent big bucks in all the wrong places. Here’s your guide:
✅ 5 Projects That Pay Off in Eau Claire
1️⃣ Minor Kitchen Updates
A full kitchen remodel sounds dreamy… until you see the bill. In our market, small, thoughtful changes give you a much better return. Think:
Painting cabinets a fresh neutral (white, soft gray, or pale sage)
Swapping out dated hardware for matte black or brushed gold
Updating light fixtures and faucets
Installing a modern, budget-friendly backsplash
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid hyper-trendy colors or tile patterns — go classic so it appeals to the widest pool of buyers.
2️⃣ Fresh Paint (Inside & Out)
You’ve heard it a thousand times because it works. A clean, neutral paint job instantly makes a home feel newer, brighter, and move-in ready.
Stick to soft, light colors: pale gray, greige, creamy whites
Don’t forget baseboards, doors, and trim — they make a huge difference
Curb appeal boost? Paint that front door a bold, welcoming color (navy, forest green, or classic black)
3️⃣ Landscaping and Curb Appeal
First impressions count, especially online. Simple, tidy, and well-maintained landscaping makes buyers want to step inside.
Edge and mulch garden beds
Add potted plants by the entry
Keep the lawn mowed, watered, and weed-free
Power-wash siding and walkways
Avoid: Elaborate fountains, koi ponds, or tropical plants that won’t survive a Wisconsin winter.
4️⃣ New Flooring in High-Traffic Areas
Worn, stained carpet or dated linoleum can be a deal-breaker. Focus on replacing flooring in the main living spaces.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is huge in Eau Claire — it’s durable, waterproof, and looks like wood
Go for cohesive flooring throughout open spaces for a larger, cleaner look
5️⃣ Updated Lighting Fixtures
Nothing screams “1998” like a builder-grade brass chandelier. Swapping out dated light fixtures is one of the cheapest, fastest ways to modernize a home.
Matte black, brushed gold, or natural wood tones are big right now
Add under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen
Replace ceiling fans if they’re older than your college diploma
🚫 3 Projects That Don’t Add Value (At Least Not Here)
1️⃣ Luxury Built-Ins (Unless It’s a Mudroom)
Custom wine cellars, bookcases, or built-in aquarium walls might look cool, but buyers won’t pay extra for them. In fact, some will see them as a hassle to remove.
2️⃣ Over-the-Top Basement Bars
A basic wet bar? Great. A full-blown basement sports pub with neon signs, beer taps, and disco lighting? Fun for you, useless for resale. Most buyers would rather have flexible open space.
3️⃣ Custom Hobby Rooms
Unless you’re selling to a fellow pottery-throwing, CrossFit-loving, model train enthusiast, converting an entire room for a niche hobby hurts resale. Keep your spaces neutral and versatile.
Thinking About Selling in the Eau Claire area? Let’s Chat.
If you’re wondering which projects make sense for your specific home and budget, I’m happy to swing by for a no-pressure consultation. No gimmicks, no hard sell — just honest, local advice on what’ll help your home sell faster and for more in this market. (it's different than just a few months ago!)
📞 Text or call me at (715) 598-9900
📧 Email: [email protected]
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