-Friendly Ways to Boost Your Home's Value in Destin, 30A & Santa Rosa Beach

Thinking about giving your home a little extra sparkle without blowing your renovation budget? Whether you're preparing your home to sell in Destin or Santa Rosa Beach or just want to refresh your 30A short-term rental, small improvements can make a big impact.

As a REALTOR® and homeowner in Santa Rosa Beach, one of my favorite local spots for sourcing high-end furniture and home goods is the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, just off Highway 98. I’ve found incredible pieces to furnish both my personal home and my short-term rentals—at a fraction of the retail price!

Ready to boost your home’s value? Here are my favorite affordable, effective upgrades:

Start with Curb Appeal 🌴

In the Destin and 30A real estate markets, first impressions matter. A fresh, welcoming exterior sets the tone for buyers or guests.

• Paint your front door a bold, beachy color.

• Add potted plants or coastal landscaping near the entry.

• Keep your lawn trimmed and remove any overgrowth.

• Swap outdated house numbers or mailboxes for sleek, modern ones.

Refresh with Paint 🎨

Nothing transforms a space quite like a fresh coat of paint.
Stick to soft neutrals that feel clean and coastal—perfect for appealing to buyers in 30A or future vacation guests.

Focus on high-traffic areas like:

• Living rooms

• Kitchens

• Hallways

Upgrade Lighting 💡

Lighting can completely change a home's vibe—especially important for showcasing your home in real estate photos or rental listings.

• Replace outdated fixtures with modern or coastal-inspired options.

• Use energy-efficient LED bulbs.

• Add dimmer switches for mood lighting.

• Swap old lampshades for something more stylish and fresh.

Modernize the Kitchen & Bath (On a Budget) 🚿

These spaces are major selling points—especially in Santa Rosa Beach and Destin real estate.

Try these easy upgrades:

• Update cabinet hardware

• Add peel-and-stick backsplash tiles or accent walls with trim and paint.

• Replace faucets with sleek new finishes

• Re-caulk around sinks and tubs for a clean finish

Declutter and Organize 🧺

Whether you're staging to sell or prepping your rental for summer guests, a clutter-free home looks bigger and more polished.

• Donate or store unused items

• Tidy closets and open storage

• Add baskets, bins, and shelving for stylish organization

Don’t Overlook the Little Details ✨

The small stuff matters. A few finishing touches can instantly elevate your home's perceived value.

• Replace old outlet covers and light switch plates

• Fix squeaky doors or loose handles

• Add updated curtain rods or door stops

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to spend big to make your Destin or Santa Rosa Beach home stand out. Whether you’re preparing to sell, optimizing a 30A short-term rental, or just want to love your home a little more—these small updates go a long way.

And remember: for expert guidance on buying, selling, or investing in real estate across Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, or 30A, I’m here to help every step of the way.