Home improvement projects can make a significant impact on your house, especially if they increase resale value. However, some renovations may be more about boosting your comfort and satisfaction in your home.
Regardless of what you are looking to accomplish, it’s important to understand the costs and scope of your project before starting.
1. Paint the Outside of Your Home
Home improvement and renovation projects are an effective way to add value to your property. These projects can be as simple as painting the interior of your home or adding crown molding. They can also be much more extensive.
A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your home. Choose neutral colors like gray, beige or white to give your home a modern and clean look. You can also use an accent wall to add a pop of color!
Replacing carpet with hardwood floors is another affordable home improvement project. It will create a classic and timeless look in your home, and it is easier to maintain than carpet. You can also save money by installing laminate flooring that resembles wood.
2. Upgrade Your Ottoman
An upholstered ottoman is the perfect way to add a pop of color or pattern to any room. This DIY version uses an IKEA drawer and a fabric of your choice for a quick project.
According to NAR, many homeowners started renovating their homes during the pandemic, but it wasn’t necessarily because of the flu scare. Respondents reported that they were motivated by improving worn-out surfaces and finishes, adding more functionality, and increasing the livability of their homes.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home, focus on projects that will be reusable. This will allow you to save money for other home improvements that can be made later, like expanding your closet or building under stair storage. These projects will add long-term value to your home.
3. Add Plants to Your Room
A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest and easiest home improvement projects you can do to instantly brighten a room. You can even paint over existing wallpaper to make the space feel brand new!
Another low-cost but high-impact home improvement is replacing old hardware. Changing out builder-basic outlet covers and light switches for ones that fit in with the décor of the room can really change the look.
Adding greenery to your home is another easy way to add color and texture to the space. You can plant your own plants or buy cheap and easy-to-care-for houseplants in a variety of sizes and shapes. If you want to get creative, try adding your plants to a woven basket for a fun and colorful addition to the room!
4. Install a New Countertop
Home improvement projects can improve the livability of a house and add value to it. But not every renovation will be a great investment, so it’s important to do your research before hiring a contractor.
If you’re thinking of remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, you may want to consider replacing your countertops. This is a great way to add a fresh new look to your home without spending a lot of money.
Before you can start the process of installing a new countertop, you will need to remove your old one. This can be a big job so you should enlist the help of a friend or family member. You will also need to clear out your kitchen and move all utensils, appliances, dishes, and other items to provide access for installation.
5. Replace Old Hardware
Home renovation can be expensive. However, there are many projects that will give your home a facelift without the big price tag.
A new ceiling fan can improve airflow and give a room a fresh look for under $100. You can also replace cabinet knobs, which will modernize the look of your cabinets and bounce light around a room for less than $500.
Paint can make a huge difference on your walls, transforming them from old, dull and yellowing to bright and fresh. You can also upgrade your doors by adding glass or painting them in a more current color.
Finally, you can update your switch plates, outlet covers and cabinet pulls by spray painting them in a trendy finish like brushed bronze or oil rubbed bronze.