Here are HGTV's tips for adding value to your home without spending a lot of money: 

Tip 1: Spend an hour with a pro.
Invite a realtor or interior designer over to check out your home. Many realtors will do this as a courtesy, but you'll probably have to pay a consultation fee to a designer. A standard hourly fee is normally less than $100, and in an hour they can give you lots of ideas. Even small suggested improvements, such as paint colors or furniture placement, can go a long way toward improving the look and feel of your home.

Tip 2: Inspect it!
Not every home improvement is cosmetic. Deteriorating roofs, termite infestation or outdated electrical systems - you can't fix it if you don't know it's broken. Hire an inspector to check out the areas of your home that you don't normally see. They may discover hidden problems that could negatively impact your home's value.

Tip 3: Paint, paint, paint.
One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is paint! Freshly painted rooms look clean and updated - and that spells value. When selecting paint colors, keep in mind that neutrals appeal to the greatest number of people. On average, a gallon of paint costs around $25, leaving you plenty of money to buy rollers, painter's tape, drop cloths and brushes.

Tip 4: Find inspiration.
An alternative to hiring a designer is to search for remodeling and decorating inspiration in design-oriented magazines, books, TV shows and websites. Simply tear out or print off the ideas you want to try and start your to-do list. Keep it simple - when remodeling on a tight budget, do-it-yourself projects are best.

Tip 5: Cut energy costs.
Many local utility companies provide free energy audits of their customers' homes. They can show you how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home. An energy-efficient home will save you money now, which can be applied to other updates, and is a more valuable and marketable asset in the long run.