Q: Is there anything I can do to increase the value of my home without investing a lot of money?

A:  According to HomeGains annual home improvement and staging survey, there are some easy yet affordable do-it-yourself home projects that can greatly increase your home’s resale value. The marketing company, Homegains, reported that these projects give sellers the biggest return for their investment.

1. Cleaning and decluttering. Remove any personal items. You also need to unclutter kitchen counter space, since buyers are looking for usable counters with plenty of cabinets for storage. Organize closets and shelves. And always make your home sparkling clean! The cost of all this is about $290, depending upon what needs to be done. The return can be $1990 at sale time!

2. Brightening. Buyers are looking for a light and bright home, so get all your windows cleaned, inside and outside. If your curtains are old and dated, replace them. Also update light fixtures.  Make certain that anything that blocks light from the windows is removed. The cost for this is about $375; the return $1550!

3.  Smart staging. You can rearrange furniture, add new accessories, incorporate artwork, plus play soft music in the background. According to realtor.org, there are several ways to accessorize your home. Using area rugs tends to define a large space, substituting trunks or small suitcases in place of side tables adds interest. Add lighting for some of those gray winter days. Add fresh flowers in the bathrooms or near the front entrance to enhance those areas of your home. The cost:$550; return $2194.

4.  Repairing electrical or plumbing. Make sure all plumbing is working, and that leaks are fixed and stains removed. Update electrical, fix any outlets or lights that don’t work, and replace plug points with new safety features. Cost $647; return $1739.