People Who Flip Homes Swear By These Clever Home Upgrades That Are Cheap As Hell On Amazon

Matt Buys Indiana Houses’ Matt Vukovich advises that even if your home has older siding, this address plaque will “instantly improve your curb appeal, and make your home look much more luxurious, especially in the evening/night.” It has a built-in solar panel for illumination once the sun goes down, and four sets of numbers and a set of letters are included to customize it to your address.

The owner of Buy My Home Chattanooga, Jessica Wright, favors peel-and-stick backsplash tiles like these for a budget-friendly upgrade. It can make a “room into something modern and luxurious.” The set includes 100 glossy white subway tiles that install on smooth surfaces (including over existing ceramic tile). Trim them with a utility knife for a precise fit.

Playing off the advice of Jessica Wright, owner of Buy My Home Chattanooga, who suggests adhesive options for an instant glow-up, these peel-and-stick floor tiles are super easy to install. They come in fun, retro-inspired patterns that add personality fast, and installation is as easy as peel, cut, and press. Made from durable, waterproof material, they’re renter-friendly, easy to clean, and leave no sticky mess behind when it’s time to swap them out. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or your weekend DIY mood.

If your walls could talk, they’d probably beg for this magnetic doorstop. “I personally like these as I have a toddler who likes to slam or try to keep his door open,” shares Ryan Dossey, co-founder of SoldFast. It cushions doors from slamming and doubles as a holder when you want the door to stay open. The two-piece setup attaches to your door and wall (or floor).

Erik Wright, the founder and CEO of New Horizon Home Buyers, is a fan of remote-control puck lights like these, saying they create “a classy and thoughtful look.” Put the lights in any dim area (there are a few possible installation methods), and select from 12 colors, three color temperatures, and a range of brightness levels for a custom lighting experience.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper like this “allows for creative expression without the commitment of traditional wallpaper,” since it can be removed without leaving behind damage according to Robert Shepherd of Peak & Home Partners. This makes it renter-friendly, too. The leaf-like pattern of this pick is charming, and it’s waterproof by design, so you can wipe it down to get it clean. A beige version can also be found in the listing.

“Trim adds architectural interest and a refined look, Matt Vukovich, of Matt Buys Indiana Houses, tells Mic. He adds, “Even peel-and-stick versions can make a noticeable difference.” That said, this peel-and-stick molding makes a DIY-friendly pick and requires no special skills or equipment to install — just trim it to length and stick it in place with the adhesive on the back. This white option is paintable, but other finishes are available in the listing.

Installing decorative molding feels like a project that should be left to the pros. However, with this adhesive trim that’s actually not the case — it easily sticks in place on smooth, clean surfaces. “Peel-and-stick crown molding provides immediate architectural character,” notes Erik Wright, CEO and founder of New Horizon Home Buyers. The 16.4-foot roll comes in four colors in the listing.

If you’re looking to bring upscale, crown-molding-esque finishing touches all the way down to the floor, this peel-and-stick vinyl baseboard is a smart move. Made from premium, flexible vinyl, it’s durable, easy to cut, and installs without drills or screws. Just measure, peel, and press into place. It’s waterproof, easy to wipe clean, and comes in multiple colors to match your space while protecting walls from scuffs and wear.

“A good wood polish, like Howard Feed-N-Wax, can bring dull furniture, cabinets, or wood trim back to life. For just a few bucks, it adds depth and richness, making old wood look cared for and high-end again,” says Chris Turner, owner and designer at Elevate by Design in Colorado. This blend of beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil protects and conditions wood, keeping your home flips looking intentional, not thrift store sad.

“A pleasant, consistent scent throughout your home can create a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere,” notes Matt Vukovich of Matt Buys Indiana Houses. To pull this off, he recommends using a variety of products, such as candles, room sprays, or a diffuser set like this. It comes with real baby’s breath flowers that look so elegant, and is available in a range of scents ranging from woodsy to clean linen or citrus.

Omer Reiner of FL Cash Home Buyers, LLC shares that installing a decorative medallion like this one around any ceiling fixture will add a touch of elegance. “You can paint the medallion or any other type of millwork in a shade to match or contrast with your wall color, depending on whether you want understated luxury or a wow factor,” he adds. The medallion is made from lightweight polyurethane for easy hanging.

For “a clean, modern look,” per Jessica Wright of Buy My Home Chattanooga, swap your outdated kitchen faucet with a sleek matte black one like this. Its sprayer head (which pulls out, if desired) dispenses a powerful stream of water, and it can be used in three modes, including a waterfall-style option that covers a larger area at once. Considering its quality, it’s shocking that it costs only $30. It comes in six finishes in the listing.

Install motion-sensor lights, like these ones, anywhere that would benefit from extra illumination (like your closet, stairs, or bathroom). “Aside from making things more convenient, it also gives off an air of understated luxury,” notes Jessica Wright of Buy My Home Chattanooga. Available as a set of four or eight, the lights are easy to install with the included adhesive magnet backings, and they’re rechargeable with a handy cable that juices up three at a time.

Have a door that doesn’t latch properly? Justin Azarias, the owner of Property Home Buyers CA, explains that “it's probably out of whack, which means air is coming in or out, raising your energy bills.” The good news is that there’s a cheap fix: A strike plate like this “will move the latch position, so you don't need to replace the entire door frame,” he adds.

Jerry O'Reilly, the real estate investor at Cash Home Buyers Crew, swears by these heavy-duty fasteners for quick fixes in spots all over the home. “Perfect for attaching valances, draping fabric over decorative rods, or for quick indoor repairs,” he shares. Eight sets of fasteners are included, each of which supports up to 10 pounds for the long haul.

Jerry O'Reilly, investor at Cash Home Buyers Crew, also says that you can create a professional-looking landscape by covering the ground with this weed barrier fabric, securing it with the included stakes, and then throwing some mulch or stones over the top. “No special skills or talent needed to install this product. Lasts for years before disintegrating,” he adds.

“Another nice addition is soft-close toilet seats for bathrooms,” says Ryan Dossey, co-founder of SoldFast, and honestly, it’s the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. This Kohler seat closes quietly and slowly, so no more jolting seat slams. It has quick-release hinges for easy cleaning, grip-tight bumpers to keep it steady, and comes in round or elongated options to fit most toilets. It’s a small swap that makes your flip feel finished.

After lining the front walkway of her last project with solar-powered lights like these, Buy My Home Chattanooga owner Jessica Wright says the exterior looked so much better. “Immediate improvement to visual attractiveness at a low cost,” she notes. These 12 lights glow a warm white hue, and they’re weather resistant to last through the seasons.

“One of the huge mistakes I frequently see is cheap, mismatched caulking around sinks, tubs, and windows,” explains Jessica Wright of Buy My Home Chattanooga. This “fails to prevent water infiltration, which is a great breeding ground for mold, rot, or both,” she adds. Her recommendation? Utilize a high-quality silicone caulk like this that’s waterproof, crack-resistant, and durable.

“Swapping out a dated fixture for a sleek, modern option instantly upgrades a space, and there are plenty of affordable choices,” shares Buy My Home Chattanooga’s Jessica Wright. And this adjustable pendant — which costs under $20 — certainly qualifies. It comes in black and white, with narrow or wide lampshade options, and presents a chic look. And the plug-in power cord is over 13 feet long for hanging almost anywhere.

Harpreet Saini, the CEO of We Buy Houses in Metro Detroit, points out window film can “give builder-grade bathroom windows [...] a spa-like ambiance.” In addition to looking great, the film blocks UV rays, helps cut energy bills (by keeping out unwanted temps), and creates privacy for the space.

“Solar lights can contribute to curb appeal by lighting walkways and architectural features, giving visitors a warm welcome,” shares Harpreet Saini of We Buy Houses in Metro Detroit. And these specific solar spotlights put out a warm white glow to draw attention to specific spots. They’ll shine for up to 12 hours straight each night.

Outdated garage door? Ryan Whitcher, the CEO of Harmony Home Buyers, suggests putting up magnetic hardware like this to “instantly improve curb appeal by providing the look of expensive carriage-style doors for pennies on the dollar.” The two handles and four hinges will firmly attach to any metal door, and they’re made from weather-resistant plastic to last.

Robert Shepherd of Peak & Home Partners suggests utilizing smart plugs like this pair “to control lights and appliances remotely, adding a tech-savvy touch to any home.” They can be controlled by certified smart home platforms like Apple Home, Alexa, or Google Home. You can even set up a timer or schedule to reduce energy costs.

While a new front door mat totally freshens up the entrance to your home, there are so many to pick from — it’s kind of overwhelming. Peak & Home Partners’ Shepherd’s advice? “Look for mats with bold patterns or welcoming messages. Choosing a mat with nonslip backing can also ensure safety during wet conditions,” he adds. This particular door mat meets these qualifications, all for less than $15.

“How a home looks is important but so is how it smells! We like putting out these Citrus scent units during open houses that make a remodel smell luxurious,” says Ryan Dossey, co-founder of SoldFast. These solid aroma absorbers swap musty odors for a fresh citrus vibe and last up to 90 days. Just pop the lid and let it quietly work in closets, bathrooms, or anywhere your flip needs a refresh.

Robert Shepherd of Peak & Home Partners stands by the fact that “replacing an old showerhead with a rainfall or high-pressure model can make a bathroom feel like a spa.” And this particular luxurious showerhead has 90-plus silicone nozzles to douse your body in a rain-like water stream. It’s easy to install (it twists in place on almost any existing plumbing setup), and it’ll save water since there’s a max outflow. A few finishes can be found in the listing.

These gold hooks look pricey, but the four-pack costs only $10. Robert Shepherd of Peak & Home Partners confirms adhesive hooks are suitable for “decluttering and organizing spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and closets.” In fact, each one can hold up to 12 pounds, despite installing with just adhesive.

Daniel Zisman of Platinum Home Buyers refers to stair treads like these as a “quick way to add a little contrast to plain wooden stairs,” adding that the other bonus is that they can be “taken off if you need to clean them or if you want to change up the look from time to time.” The four treads are made from polyester with a low-profile design to not be a tripping hazard.

This sleek paper towel holder mounts under a cabinet or on a wall. “Keeps the counter space clutter free, and is extremely convenient,” notes Platinum Home Buyers’ Daniel Zisman. “So simple, but doesn't go unnoticed,” he adds. Stick it in place with adhesive or screw it in for installation on an uneven surface.

Martin Boonzaayer of The Trusted Home Buyer is a big proponent of letting natural sunlight stream into a space. To ensure your drapes don’t prevent this from happening, utilize this pair of curtain ties to hold them back. They stay in place with a magnetic clip, and the flower design adds a touch of vintage flair.

Drawers a mess? Shannon Feick, the owner of ASAP Properties, recommends utilizing drawer dividers like these that “[make] storage look nice, neat, and organized.” They’re made from water-resistant bamboo with an extendable design (from 17 inches to 22 inches) and can be used horizontally or vertically, while smaller pieces let you further divide sections.

“Swapping out outdated cabinet knobs and faucet hardware with sleek matte black hardware is a quick and easy way to update the look of any bathroom or kitchen,” shares Jessica Wright, owner of Buy My Home Chattanooga. And these 10 matte black knobs are made from solid zinc alloy for durability.

“Exposed plumbing pipes under sinks look unsightly and risk[s] freezing in winter,” shares founder and CEO of New Horizon Home Buyers, Erik Wright. A cheap solution? These foam pipe covers that are pre-slit to wrap onto the pipes for protection. They look clean and simple, cost just $10 for six of them, and will last a long time.

Mark Kizokian, the owner of Rooted House Buyers, LLC, says that these specific dimmer switches, which come in a set of six, can totally change the mood of your home. “By having your lights being able to be more dim, it creates a more cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially in the evenings,” he shares. They’re universally compatible with most bulbs.

Matt Vukovich, the president of Matt Buys Indiana Houses, wants you to remember that your front door is literally the first thing people see as they enter your home. “So making sure that it is clean, and well maintained is very important,” he adds. A tech-savvy accent like this fingerprint door knob can also make a big difference. You can unlock it via fingerprint, key, or the app, so you can let guests in when you’re not even home.

A unique way to create more ambiance in your home? Matt Buys Indiana Houses’ Matt Vukovich says to not rely solely on overhead lighting, but rather layer “different light sources [...] to add depth and warmth to your rooms.” This pair of table lamps are a good place to start; they puts off a positively inviting amber glow. They’re wireless (battery-operated) and having two means you can create a dynamic layered look.

President of Matt Buys Indiana Houses Matt Vukovich doesn’t want you to forget that “even hidden spaces contribute to the overall feeling of a home.” To help get your pantry in order, utilize these four food storage containers. Each one has a snap-on lid to keep the contents inside fresh, and they conveniently stack to save space.

Matt Vukovich of Matt Buys Indiana Houses shares that a welcoming entrance “sets the tone for the entire home.” To create this, he suggests items like a console table and mirror. This arched mirror comes in at a steal for its eye-catching full length — it measures 56 inches tall by 15 inches wide, and comes in multiple sizes. The black frame adds a modern touch, or you can opt for classic gold or silver. A sturdy stand in back means you can place it wherever you like.

Continuing with the theme of creating an inviting entrance to your humble abode, as per the advice of Matt Buys Indiana Houses’ Matt Vukovich, this console table would make a good addition. It has a narrow design to fit in most foyers or entryways well, and the rustic wood and metal accents combine for a high-end feel — other finishes can be found in the listing.

Matt Buys Indiana Houses’ Matt Vukovich says bare windows look unfinished. To fix this, he suggests floor-length curtains like these to “make a room feel larger.” And since they’re semi-sheer, they bring a “soft, airy touch,” he adds. This is the off-white shade, but other equally-pretty options are available in the listing.

According to Matt Vukovich, President of Matt Buys Indiana Houses, cellular blinds bring a textured element to a room. These specific cordless ones — that boast the title of best-seller on Amazon — can be mounted in or outside the window (choose the correct size in the listing), and the nonwoven polyester fabric that they’re made from filters light nicely.

Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint on your front door, and Mark Kizokian of Rooted House Buyers, LLC specifically recommends using this black shade, which he says will even increase your home’s value overall. The paint and primer combo is thick for one-coat coverage. It’s low odor and water-based, and also comes in other shades in the listing.

“While aesthetics are important,” explains Keith Sant, the founder and CEO of Kind House Buyers, “functionality should never be overlooked.” With that in mind, one way to make a narrow area serve a purpose is with this four-tier cart for storage. There are three mesh baskets to hold items you use regularly (like condiments, spices, oils, and more), plus a wooden top for food prep or extra storage. The cart rolls for access. It measures 7.1 inches wide.

Swap blah light switch covers with these fresh ones that feature a built-in light for illumination. They “make electrical elements look freshly renovated without the cost of hiring an electrician,” shares Erik Wright of New Horizon Home Buyers. The pair of covers are simple to install, the light is dimmable, and they have a low-profile design. They come as a pair.

O'Neill Home Buyers LLC’s Jack O’Neill favors utilizing a multi-port outlet like this one for his projects as it’s “a great way to add some convenience [...] without breaking the bank on my end.” This highly rated pick has five regular outlets, three USB-A ports, and one USB-C, all in a compact package.

Jack O’Neill of O'Neill Home Buyers LLC says that Amazon is the spot for a great deal on a kitchen faucet with an LED light. This brushed nickel model is relatively budget-friendly, though it has high-end features like the built-in light (which shines blue, green, or red as the water goes from cool to hot), plus a two-mode sprayer head that pulls out for access.

“Tangled bushes, dead trees and struggling lawns are cries of despair,” stresses Jordan Woolf, the CEO of We Buy Houses In Bama. Luckily, this pruner saw has a steel sawtooth blade to efficiently cut through greenery that needs to go, as well as a grass-shearing blade. The nonslip handle is comfortable to grip and it’s lightweight for optimal control.

Mark Kizokian of Rooted House Buyers, LLC says to replace an old ceiling light with this flush-mount one to “give your rooms a sleek and bright look, especially with the elegant oak wood finish.” It features an LED bulb that’ll last 45,000 hours, and it can be set to five different color temperatures and dimmed as desired.

As Harpreet Saini, the CEO of We Buy Houses in Metro Detroit, puts it, these recessed lights “add depth and warmth” wherever you choose to utilize them, whether that’s in hallways, your living room, a bathroom, or somewhere else. These specific ones fit into 5- or 6-inch housing, and once in place, they can be seamlessly dimmed for a custom setup.

Jason Hull, the owner of J & J Cash Home Buyers, stresses the value of using wall shelves to create extra storage. “A couple of favorite spaces to do this are above the washer/dryer area to store laundry detergent and clothes bins and in the pantry for creating extra storage for items that aren't commonly used,” he adds. This wire shelf is his personal recommendation; it’s made of durable epoxy-coated steel and comes with easy instructions and all hardware for installation.

“Old, discolored outlet covers and light switches bring down the appearance of a room,” explains Matt Vukovich of Matt Buys Indiana Houses’. Swap them out with new ones like these for a cheap update. Each one has clean, crisp lines and a bright white finish. And three are included in the set.

Joel Efosa, the CEO of Fire Cash Buyer, calls this LED light bulb a small upgrade that makes your home “feel like a smart home.” It connects to your phone (or another similar device) through Bluetooth, and it boasts a built-in speaker to wirelessly play your favorite music. It can be set to eight colors and the brightness level is adjustable as well.

“Poorly sealed windows waste enormous amounts of energy and drive up utility bills,” explains Erik Wright, owner of Buy My Home Nashville. “Last spring, when renovating the house for a customer, we found that drafty windows were costing an additional $100 a month in heating costs...” Wright recommends weather-stripping tape as a simple solution. It blocks outside air while helping retain indoor temperatures, and installing it is as easy as measuring, trimming, and applying. Clear, unobtrusive, and watertight, it’s safe to use on a variety of surfaces, including wood.

Constantly redecorating your house can be expensive. Instead, Dr. Kenneth Sesley, founder of Top Ranked Home Buyers, says, “Consider investing in versatile decor pieces like removable wallpaper or interchangeable artwork to easily update your space.” This peel-and-stick wallpaper is a budget-conscious investment with a high-end result. The vintage-inspired design adds an elegant touch to small bathrooms, home offices, and kitchen alcoves. And when you want to switch things up? It removes without leaving residue behind.

“A lack of curb appeal can immediately turn off potential buyers and decrease the value of a home,” warns Alex Locklear, realtor and the founder of NC Cash Homebuyers. “Some common mistakes include dead or overgrown plants.” If plant care isn’t your strong suit, you can still keep your curb appeal intact by opting for artificial plants. This faux boxwood topiary adds an upscale touch to your front step, and comes in multiple heights, making it easy to find one that matches the scale of your home.

“A cluttered home not only looks messy but can also affect functionality and cause stress,” says Jonathan Carcone, owner of 4 Brothers Buy Houses. Fortunately, tidying up can be as easy as hanging this over-door organizer. Versatile enough for toiletries, pantry goods, and linens, it offers five tiers of storage and side pockets for smaller items. And because it comes in multiple colors, you can find one that blends easily with your space.

If you’re squeezed for storage or just overwhelmed by upkeep, Jonathan Carcone, owner of 4 Brothers Buy Houses, has some advice: “Consider decluttering regularly and finding proper storage solutions for items you still want to keep. This will not only improve the overall look of your home but also make it easier to maintain.” Your shoe collection is a perfect place to start, and this two-pack of bins is a genius way to go about it. They store pairs vertically to help save floor space, while the clear covers protect against dust while still making it easy to see what’s inside.

One of the most dramatic upgrades you can make in your space is with window privacy film.“These offer both privacy and style at a low cost. They're easy to apply and come in designs that mimic etched glass, adding an upscale look to any room,” explains Jonathan Faccone, managing member and founder of Halo Homebuyers. Installation is easy — measure, cut, and apply with water — but the results are outsized. Choose from multiple gorgeous designs in the listing.