Simple home renovations are great for making your home feel new without spending a lot of money. They can also make your house more appealing to potential buyers if you plan on selling it in the future.
Make sure to budget for any extra costs that may arise during your renovation. Your location and the scope of the work will impact permit fees and other expenses.
Kitchen
A kitchen overhaul can dramatically impact a home’s value, but it can also be incredibly costly. If you’re ready for a change but don’t have the budget to revamp your entire floor plan, consider updating only your cabinet doors or installing a new backsplash. These small touches go a long way, appearance-wise, and will limit the need for future maintenance.
In this farmhouse kitchen, DIY homeowner Claire Zinnicker carved out new windows and painted the walls white to brighten the space. She also added salvaged wood open shelving, combining a mix of old and new to create an inviting vibe.
If you’re looking for a more substantial upgrade, consider swapping out your sink hardware and faucet. These affordable items are a great opportunity to add a splash of personality. Try opting for warmer-toned finishes, such as brass, and coordinating your hardware to the rest of your décor. You can also splurge on a custom backsplash that showcases your unique style.
Bathroom
Many homeowners start a bathroom remodel with big plans like swapping out the vanity or installing tile flooring, but small changes can make a noticeable impact for less money. Painting the room is one of the least expensive upgrades and can make even a small bathroom feel larger. If you’re going the DIY route, be sure to purchase paint that is moisture-hardy and formulated for bathrooms.
Alternatively, consider a new tub or shower curtain to add a fresh look that doesn’t break the bank. Swapping out the sink faucet can also instantly improve a bathroom’s style.
Before starting a remodel, take “before” pictures and clear out the space for work to begin. Also, make sure to have alternative bathing arrangements in place while work is underway. And finally, be sure to mark the location of electrical wiring and plumbing pipes so you don’t accidentally damage them.
Living Room
Whether you’re binging Mare of Easttown or hosting an epic game of Settlers of Catan, the living room is the heart of the home. Simple updates can make it feel like a whole new space.
Installing crown molding is a classic home improvement project that adds elegance to any room, especially in the living room. Many styles are available, and many are affordable. You don’t even need to remove existing flooring for this budget-friendly project.
If you have older windows, a few simple curtains or valances can hide them and give the room an instant facelift. There are plenty of sew-it-yourself options, and materials for a 16 by 20-foot space can cost less than $1,000.
Traditionally, living rooms were more elegant spaces where you’d display artwork and fancy antiques. Today, with open floor plans blurring the lines between family, dining, and kitchen areas, the living room is more of a meeting spot for daily life.
Exterior
A well-researched and planned home exterior makeover can add a lot of value to your property. A new coat of paint or a front door with decorative trims can provide a high ROI when it comes time to sell your house.
An updated look to the exterior can also help you achieve your goals for a greener living environment and improved energy efficiency. New windows and doors in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes can reduce the amount of heat your home loses while introducing natural light and a modern look.
Simple home renovations in the exterior can include a new porch railing, shutters and bushes or a well-designed landscaping project that complements your style and adds a touch of serenity to your backyard. A fountain or koi pond can become an eye-catching feature, and even an eco-friendly water feature like an artificial stream or waterfall can be a great way to bring your family together for fun and relaxation.