Your garage can be one of two things: an empty space for cars to park and clutter to build-up over time, or it can be a useable space that provides value to new homeowners.

Your garage can be one of two things: an empty space for cars to park and clutter to build-up over time, or it can be a useable space that provides value to new homeowners. When you’re competing in a competitive market, you want your garage to be the latter.

Use these ideas to make your garage a selling point, especially if it’s not already updated or renovated.

1. Create a Home Storage Center

A garage can a great place to toss everything you don’t use on a regular basis. Depending on the size of your garage, there are a few options:

• Overhead storage: This is perfect for a small garage and you can DIY the whole thing.

• Pegboards: Pegboards, which hang on the wall, are the perfect space savers and organizers. ”

• Shelving: Install basic shelving on whichever wall has the most space. This is a simple project and your budget can dictate the cost and quality of the wood and hardware you buy.

2. Install Epoxy Flooring

You’ve likely seen epoxy flooring in commercial garages or car showrooms, but it isn’t just for professional use. Epoxy flooring is a smart upgrade for your garage for many reasons. Not only does it look good, with a sleek and modern finish, but it’s durable and reduces slips and falls.

The best part: you can install epoxy flooring yourself or have it done by a professional. If you’re on a budget, go the DIY route-if you have no time, hire someone to come do it for you. In either case, it will be a major selling point for your home, attracting car enthusiasts and those who want to make their garage a functional storage space.

3. Turn it Into a Kid’s Space

If you live in a family-friendly area, turning your garage into a kid’s space will appeal to interested families. If you’ve already installed epoxy, you can tout the safety benefits of the flooring for kids thanks to the non-slip surface. Take it a step further by installing items that kids can use to store toys and play. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Pull-out workbench that kids can use to color on.

• Low-rise gates to keep the kids space separate from the rest of the garage.

• Chalkboard walls.

• Stage this space like you would the rest of our home with kid’s chairs, a small couch, toys and storage bins, allowing potential buyers to imagine their kids using the space.

4. Spruce Up the Street Appeal

Street appeal is critical: First impressions set the tone for a home tour. Prospective buyers should encounter an attractive, welcoming place before they even walk through the doorway.

As such, consider how you can elevate the look of your garage from a curb appeal standpoint. Here are a few ideas:

• Power wash the door: You’ll be amazed at how much dirt and grime is caked on there.

• Paint the door: Re-paint the door and trim.

• Add windows and detail: If your door doesn’t already have windows or interesting detail, consider adding these features, which can help your home stand out.

• Replace the door: In some cases, you may be better off replacing the garage door.

Making your garage a selling point of the home doesn’t take a lot of time or money-with a few DIY projects, you’ll have a marketable space for every kind of buyer.