The Mudroom Mini-Makeover—Why This Forgotten Space Packs Surprising ROI
The Mudroom Mini-Makeover—Why This Forgotten Space Packs Surprising ROI
In most Massachusetts and Rhode Island homes, the mudroom is an afterthought. And if I’m being really honest, that space ends up being a dumping ground for boots, bags, keys, and chaos. I’ve seen it hundreds of times when I meet with sellers who are ready to start the process of selling their homes.
But the good news is that a smart, small mudroom upgrade can totally transform your space. Not only that, it can make a huge difference in your home’s real (and perceived) value, often for less than $200.
Why Bother With a Mudroom?
In New England, we call late Fall through early Spring the “mud season” for a reason. It’s always cluttered with jackets (because it can be 50º one day and 15º the next) and shoes… lots of shoes all kicked off in a heap.
And if you have kids or dogs? Forget about it.
But buyers and appraisers are noticing when an entry is actually functional—not just a pass-through.
A tight, organized mudroom signals “this house works”—and that’s a selling point, not just a convenience. Remember, first impressions matter… and your entry is a first impression.
What’s the Fastest, Most Cost-Effective Upgrade?
Here’s what works in our climate:
One bench (bonus if it has shoe storage underneath)
Three to five sturdy hooks (for coats, backpacks, wet gear)
A gallon of high-quality paint (semi-gloss or satin for easy cleaning)
A washable runner or mat (skip the fancy stuff—get what can handle slush and salt)
Cost breakdown:
Bench: $60–$100 (Target, IKEA, or local consignment)
Hooks: $15–$30 (Home Depot or Amazon)
Paint: $35–$60 (Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams, local stores)
Mat: $20–$40
Total: Usually under $200—and you can do it in a weekend. And with more snow on the way (I wish I were kidding), I think you’ll have some free time to tackle a small project like this.
Some Examples
Makeovers can be simple, like this one where a closet was repurposed…
Photo from Allison Kohl on Facebook
Or a little more involved like this:
Credit: MW Designs
You don’t even need a lot of space, like this:
Courtesy: ana-white.com
It just starts with deciding what you need.
Pro Tips for MA/RI Homes
Don’t skip the prep: Mudrooms take a beating. Use paint that can handle scrubbing, and anchor hooks into studs (and don’t skimp on the hooks… however many you think you need, double it).
Think vertical: Tight on space? Stack hooks or add a shelf above for hats and gloves.
Keep it light: Dark, cluttered entries feel smaller. A fresh coat of light paint makes everything look bigger and cleaner.
Add a boot tray: Saves your floors, costs $10, and keeps the mud in “mudroom.”
Bottom Line
You don’t need a massive renovation to make your home more livable (and more sellable).
A mudroom mini-makeover is the definition of high-impact, low-cost—and in New England, it’s a feature that pays off every single day.
References
Better Homes & Gardens, “6 Budget-Friendly Finds to Turn Your Entryway into a Mudroom Before Spring”
TheSpruce.com, “Before & After: These Small Mudroom Makeovers Prove You Can Do a Lot in a Cramped Space”
