Not all buyers want to invest in a home that needs lots of TLC and updates. Many home buyers want a move-in ready home that needs few improvements, and the kitchen could be one of the more important spaces on which buyers focus their attention.

A kitchen that’s stuck in the past can be a deal breaker for buyers who want a modern and updated space, but some homeowners can’t afford to completely renovate their kitchen before they list the home. These seven easy projects to update a kitchen can transform that outdated space into a modern masterpiece.

• Install a tile backsplash
• Paint the walls
• Update the décor
• Install hardwood or tile
• Ditch the kitsch
• Upgrade an old appliance
• Install new hardware

A New Backsplash

Installing a new tile backsplash could create a unique and modern focal point. There are many different types and colors of tiles that can be used to create a backsplash. Homeowners can even create a mosaic design for their backsplash to add a creative touch. According to Home Depot, this project could cost anywhere from $700 to $1,000, but homeowners could look for discounted tile and handle the project DIY to save money.

A New Paint Hue Can Liven Up a Room

A color palette can be associated with a decade from the past. For example, 70s kitchens and décor favored earthy tones and palettes. Harvest Gold and Avocado Green were popular colors for the kitchen appliances and other décor, too.

If the walls favor a dated hue, it’s time to swipe on a modern update. Homeowners can opt for a safe neutral like beige, mushroom, white or cream. They also could paint their kitchen a more modern hue, too.

Not sure how the paint color will look in the kitchen? Sherwin-Williams offers an augmented reality experience called the ColorSnap Visualizer. Homeowners can download the app on their phone to view any paint color on their walls. The augmented reality experience uses the camera to capture a wall; the paint color is selected and can be viewed on the walls via the screen image. These tools are fun to use and can let homeowners experiment with different paint colors without commitment.

Update the Décor

The décor in the kitchen also could be old and outdated. Swap out artwork for something new. If the walls are bare, find a unique picture, clock or wall décor to add a creative element to the room.

Install Hardwood or Tile

Hardwood floor looks elegant and offers a good return on investment. If adjoining rooms are hardwood consider installing this floor type in the kitchen, too. Tile floors also are a modern floor choice for the kitchen; again, homeowners can find different tile designs, colors and types. Installing hardwood in the kitchen could cost around $1,200 or more depending on the size of the space. 

While this could be a DIY project, it isn’t necessarily an easy project; however, it could be a simple one-day job when homeowners opt for a pro. For homeowners who don’t have the budget for hardwood, laminate wood flooring like Pergo could be more affordable.

Ditch the Kitsch

While retro décor could add a throwback vibe to a kitchen, it also could seem as though homeowners are stuck in the past. Ditch the kitsch that leans too much into an older decade. While the macramé owl wall hanging might be cute, when it’s paired with other 70s elements it looks dated.

Upgrade an Old Appliance

Old appliances might cause potential buyers to worry that they will be on the hook for buying new updated appliances. If a range or dishwasher is near the end of its life, consider replacing it. An energy-efficient model could help save money and it might be a selling point, too. On a budget? Search stores for models that are open-box or on sale.

Install New Hardware

Homeowners can renovate older cabinets with one simple fix: new hardware. Swap out old or outdated handles and knobs for newer hardware. This isn’t an incredibly expensive project, but it could add some modernity to older cabinets.

For homeowners with a higher budget for renovations, an older kitchen also could be revamped from floor to ceiling. Homeowners could invest in new flooring, new fixtures and even new granite or solid surface countertops. Those who have less to spend to transform their kitchen before putting it on the market, might opt to add a new paint color, upgrade the hardware on cabinets, update the flooring and revamp their wall décor, too.

Set a budget and stick to it to ensure that homeowners don’t overspend on their renovation project. While some changes could add value to a home, basic updates might simply make the room more visually appealing.