HomeAdviceRemodelingHow do I make my home look brighter?
Go Back

How do I make my home look brighter?

I have had a few showings and the feedback my agent is passing on to mee is that a lot of the people think that my home is too dark. We are south facing and we also have a big porch in the back that blocks the light to the main area. What can I do to help add more light without a huge renovation adding windows and stuff?

Asked by Leslie M | Fort Wayne, IN| 04-27-2026| 11 views|Remodeling|Updated 17 hours ago

Answers (5)

Sort by:
Michael DelehantyRising Star12 Answers
Michael Delehanty

Compass · Walnut Creek, CA

(14 reviews)
Since i dont' know what the inside of your home looks like, I can only speculate on some of the issues. Is it dark furniture? Use staging that is better. Is it a lack of interior lighting? Add some lamps. Is it heavy blind or tall shrubs? Fix those. You could also add some lights to the back patio so it radiates through the windows. Lastly, you can paint the walls a lighter color if they are currently dark. Good luck.
View Profile
04-27-2026 (13 hours ago)··
Keith Jean Pierre

REMAX First Realty · East Brunswick, NJ

(151 reviews)
Leslie, lighting is key here. Maximize natural light by cleaning windows, trimming exterior shrubbery and brush, using sheer window treatments and making sure the space shows well and is not cluttered. Additionally, you can add light with mirrors, light-colored paint (reflects light), and proper lighting fixtures with high wattage bulbs. Good luck! Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Operations In: NY, NJ, FL & CA
View Profile
04-27-2026 (15 hours ago)··
Loodmy Jacques

Keller Williams Reserve · West Palm Beach, FL

(25 reviews)
Add more lamps and light fixtures. Put them in corners and dark spots. Use warm white bulbs, not the harsh cool ones. Replace any old or dim overhead lights with brighter fixtures. Open all blinds and curtains during showings. If your window treatments are heavy or dark, swap them for lighter sheers or remove them entirely. Paint walls a lighter color if they're dark. White or light gray reflects more light. Use mirrors across from windows to bounce light around. Trim any bushes or trees blocking windows outside. Clear clutter so the space feels more open. And make sure all lights are on during showings, even during the day. These are all cheap fixes that make a huge difference without tearing into walls.
View Profile
04-27-2026 (11 hours ago)··
Find Agent CTA

Are you ready to find a top agent near you?

Browse profiles of the highest ranked agents in your area and find one that meets your specific needs.

Lisa RitterNovice3 Answers
Lisa Ritter

REMAX Select Partners · Milton, FL

(109 reviews)
Light is very attractive to prospective Buyers. Make sure all your curtains are open and the blinds are up and lights are on. Painting your walls of the main area of the home a light color would be a great idea as well. Best wishes with your sale. The work will be worth it to make your real estate dreams a reality!
View Profile
04-27-2026 (8 hours ago)··
Theresa MartensNovice2 Answers
Theresa Martens

EXP Realty Bean Group · Portsmouth, NH

Leave lots of lights on for every showing (and add extra lamps if needed). Open all blinds too.
View Profile
04-27-2026 (16 hours ago)··
Find Agent CTA

Are you ready to find a top agent near you?

Browse profiles of the highest ranked agents in your area and find one that meets your specific needs.

Related Questions

Does repainting the exterior and updating landscaping help a home sell faster?

Asked by Anonymous | 41 views | Remodeling | 04-23-2026 | Updated 4 days ago

Get rid of pool?

Asked by Anonymous | Farmington, CT | 14 views | Remodeling | 04-22-2026 | Updated 5 days ago

Is it better to replace old carpet with new carpet or upgrade to hardwood before selling?

Asked by Anonymous | Tinley Park, IL | 22 views | Remodeling | 04-22-2026 | Updated 5 days ago

What exterior remodeling projects provide the best curb appeal for a quick sale?

Asked by Anonymous | Tustin, CA | 46 views | Remodeling | 04-16-2026 | Updated 1 week ago

Is a bathtub a home requirement?

Asked by Glady Udelhofen | 50401 | 35 views | Remodeling | 04-08-2026 | Updated 1 week ago