Happy New Year! It's 2018, and I am sure many of you have made resolutions to improve your physical, mental or financial wellbeing — and rightly so.

But how many of you have also given some thought to making resolutions to improve your home?

Whether you plan to buy or sell in 2018, or if your home is just in need of a little lift, these ideas will help give your home a fresh look.

They're also, surprisingly, low cost enough to make you and your home twinkle.

• Paint

A little coat of paint goes a long way — as the saying goes — and is a great way to freshen up any interior space.

• Update fixtures

While those electric light plates are off the walls, why not switch them up for something that matches the paint? Consider white plates on white walls, or something fancier that embraces the decor of the room.

• Switch out accessories

Wait … before you put back those faded curtains or pillows, think about changing them up for something new, fresh and more modern. There are some great buys online (ie gently used) or take advantage of the sales (try and shop local). Perfectly good stock is being discounted at this time of year — that means a great deal for you.

• Organise storage spaces

Throw, give away, sell … three piles! Try and reduce your stored items to only those that have been used within the last year … hmm… I should take my own advice on this one.

• Remove those carpets

Yes really, particularly if you are thinking of selling. No one wants a home with an old carpet in it. They hold odours, mildew, germs and dirt and are living hell to anyone with allergies. Get rid of them.

If you are living in a condo complex with carpeting restrictions due to noise reduction, introduce the board to the newer soundproofing materials that can be put beneath wood or tile and which are actually much more effective.

When it comes to selling your unit, you will be glad you did as there is nothing like an old carpet on the floor to make the property look dated and detract from getting a good price.

Also, if you are thinking of selling, keep the receipts for repairs.

It's helpful for a buyer to know where the product came from, who did the work and how long, and to what level the product is guaranteed for.

Heather Chilvers is among Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty's leading sales representatives. She has been working in real estate for 30 years. If you have a question for Heather, please contact her at hchilvers@brcl.bm or 332-1793. All questions will be treated in confidence. Read this article on Facebook: Ask Heather Real Estate