There are many ways to boost the value of a home, and not surprisingly, some deliver a higher return on investment than others do.

With that in mind, a panel of RE/MAX brokers were asked to identify the best routes to adding value. Here are their seven leading recommendations.

1. Budget Carefully – Homeowners can learn from professional rehabbers, advises David Ayabarreno of RE/MAX Showcase in Gurnee, Ill.

"An investor's entire rehab budget is determined by the likely sales price of the finished product," he explained. "The same should be true for owners who want to fix up their home prior to sale."

In an area where homes in excellent condition top out at $340,000, it could make sense to spend $25,000 improving a home now valued at $300,000, but investing $60,000 seems likely to be a mistake.

2. Spruce Up Kitchen/Baths – The RE/MAX agents agreed that updating older kitchens and baths typically offers a solid return on investment, but costs can mount quickly, so make improvements strategically.

"Buyers want those rooms in move-in, updated condition and are willing to pay for that. So, $2,000 for a stainless-steel appliance package can be money well spent," said Carmen Keslin of RE/MAX 10, Palos Park, Ill.

"You don't have to remodel the entire kitchen or bath," noted Michael Lenz, a broker with RE/MAX of Naperville in Naperville, Ill. "In the kitchen, for example, you can have a major impact by re-facing the cabinets, changing the cabinet hardware and installing new countertops. A new vanity and sink can perk up a bath. In both cases, the investment is reasonable compared to the value added." 

3. Boost Curb Appeal – Exterior appearance significantly impacts the salability of a home, and attractive landscaping can boost value at a modest cost, according to Angela Bjork of RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest in Algonquin, Ill.

"Trimming the bushes and planting seasonally appropriate flower does wonders to attract buyers, and don't forget the driveway if you have one," she said. "Refreshing the blacktop or replacing damaged section of concrete can make a home look years younger. Even something as simple as a new mailbox can be a real plus. And if your home can handle shutters, they can give the house a new look for a minimal investment."

4. Refresh the Interior – The RE/MAX brokers were enthusiastic about painting the interior of the home in light, neutral colors as a low-cost value enhancer, and removing all existing wallpaper as part of that process. If painting the entire interior is too big a project, just focus on the main living areas, advised Lenz.

Along with fresh paint, consider new lighting fixtures to brighten the interior.

"A lot of homes, but especially condos, have very little in the way of permanent lighting and rely on floor and table lamps, so consider adding a few stylish fixtures at a moderate cost," suggested Natalie Renna of RE/MAX Vision 212 in Chicago.

5. Cleanliness Counts – Getting your home squeaky clean is another relatively low-cost way to boost its sale price.

When it comes to cleaning, really focus on the kitchens and baths, advises Renna, and don't forget the tile grout. "If it's dirty, it really makes a poor impression," she said.

While cleaning, don't ignore odors, especially from pets or smoking. Both have major negative impacts on the value of a home, Keslin reports.

"Buyers don't want to deal with odors, so it's really up to the seller to get them out. That can be challenging, but if you don't, the cost can be high," she said.

6. Focus on Flooring – Attractive floors, whether tiled, carpeted or hardwood, add value to a home.

"Sometimes you can get by with cleaning the carpeting, but buyers want flooring that is clean and in good condition," said Ayabarreno. "New carpeting is often the best choice, but hardwood is even better if it can be accomplished within your budget."

7. Enhance Outdoor Space – Almost every buyer relishes a nice outdoor space, so if your home has one, make it a high point, advises Bjork.

"If you don't have a deck or patio or if it's quite small, you may want to add one or expand what's there," she said. Ideally, it will be large enough for six or eight people to dine there.