Are you looking to spruce up your home without breaking the bank? You don’t need to spend a fortune to make some impactful updates that will refresh your space. As professional home inspectors, we’ve seen a lot of clever, budget-friendly home improvements over the years. Here are some of our favorite frugal fixes that are easy for any homeowner to tackle.
Paint Is Your Friend
One of the cheapest and easiest ways to dramatically change the look of any room is with a fresh coat of paint. Painting walls and ceilings is the obvious choice, but don’t overlook other opportunities. Painting floors, whether they’re wood, linoleum, or concrete, can completely transform a space. Use porch paint for durability. Tired of that dated brick fireplace? Give it a modern makeover with some masonry paint. Even dated bathroom tiles can get a facelift with specialized tile paint. With some creativity, paint lets you achieve a high-end look at a bargain price.
Upgrade Hardware and Fixtures
Swapping out dated hardware and fixtures is a quick and affordable update that makes a big impact, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Replace cabinet knobs and drawer pulls, change out faucets and showerheads, update light fixtures and switch plates. Check antique stores, flea markets, and architectural salvage shops for unique pieces that add character. Mismatched vintage hardware can give a kitchen a charming, collected-over-time look. In the bathroom, instead of replacing that huge builder-grade mirror, frame it out with decorative molding for a custom look. These small changes add up to a more polished, personalized space.
Get Creative With Trim
Decorative molding is an often-overlooked design element that can elevate any room. Crown molding makes ceilings look higher, beefy baseboards add a touch of luxury, and window and door casings provide a finished look. Decorative trim is also an easy way to camouflage flaws or add architectural interest on the cheap. Dress up a plain kitchen island with some beadboard paneling, fake the look of wainscoting in the dining room, or create a board-and-batten accent wall. In the bathroom, try framing out a plain tub surround with wide molding for an upscale look. With some inexpensive trim and a nail gun, the possibilities are endless.
Freshen Up Old Fireplaces
In older homes, the fireplace is often a major eyesore with dated, crumbling brick or a rusted, unusable firebox. But don’t rip it out just yet – you can give it new life on a small budget. Start by cleaning the brick and painting it a fresh, neutral color. For a modern look, clad the surround with stone veneer, tile, shiplap, or a sleek concrete finish. If the firebox is in bad shape, consider converting it to a decorative electric fireplace insert. You can find realistic electric units that fit right into your existing firebox, for a cozy look without an expensive renovation.
Rethink Your Lighting
Good lighting is key to making any space feel warm and inviting, but hiring an electrician to install new fixtures can be pricey. Luckily there are some easy DIY options to upgrade your lighting on a budget. Swap out dated fixtures for inexpensive but stylish new ones – you can find great options at discount home stores, antique shops, and online. In living areas or bedrooms, plug-in sconces are an easy way to add charm and eliminate the need for costly electrical work. Outdoors, string lights are a fun and affordable way to add ambiance to a porch or patio. And don’t forget the power of a dimmer switch to instantly change the mood of any room.
DIY the Right Way
While many home improvements can be done by homeowners, some projects are best left to the pros. Electrical and plumbing work can be dangerous and should only be attempted if you really know what you’re doing. Adding structural elements like removing walls or adding a bathroom requires professional input to ensure safety and code compliance. When in doubt, consult with an expert. Architects, engineers, electricians and plumbers can assess your plans and help you find the most cost-effective, code-compliant solution. Investing in professional help on the front end can save time and your relationship. Listen to our latest podcast episode for more in depth discussion about DIY hacks!
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