It’s easy to see why people are so obsessed with decorating their homes. But the truth is that many people don’t have a lot of time or money for home renovations. That doesn’t mean you can’t liven up your living space, though. There are dozens of ways to give your house an update without breaking the bank. Here are some quick and inexpensive DIY projects that will help you get started:
1. Paint your front door a bright color to make it stand out
Sometimes all it takes to upgrade your house is a fresh coat of paint. A bright or pastel color makes the door stand out, which will increase its curb appeal, making potential buyers more interested in seeing what’s behind it.
2. Replace outdated exteriors with vinyl siding
Replacing old siding can give an unexciting exterior a new look. Vinyl siding is low-maintenance and available in various colors. Still, you should hire professional siding contractors to help you out since siding installation can be difficult to do independently.
3. Use high-efficiency materials and appliances for your renovation
One way to ensure that the market value of your house will increase is by using energy-efficient materials and appliances during a home renovation. These materials and appliances save money on energy bills, making buyers more likely to purchase your property because it is more in line with their lifestyle and budget.
4. Add more space by expanding the garage
If your house is one story, consider adding a second floor to your garage with enough space for new bedrooms and bathrooms. Expanding your home’s footprint will increase its market value and make it more livable if you plan to live in it long-term.
5. Change your hardwood flooring to tile or carpet
The single most effective thing you can do to increase the value of your home is to change its layout. Hardwood floors are classy but can be cumbersome if you have pets or small children. Converting hardwood floors to carpet or tile makes a house more family-friendly and, consequently, more valuable.
6. Add crown molding to the ceiling
Add color or character to a plain white room by adding some simple crown molding along the top of the wall. This detail can also help make a small space feel more luxurious. Crown molding enhances the look of any room and is a relatively easy home renovation that will pay off immediately.
7. Remodel your kitchen or bathroom
Kitchens or bathrooms always sell fast and for good money. These spaces typically need the most renovations — which is why they’re also the best return on investment — but if you plan on staying in your house, you should renovate the kitchen or bathroom regardless of whether you expect to sell soon.
8. Replace all your light bulbs with LED lights
LED bulbs are more expensive upfront but use less electricity and last considerably longer. Replacing every light bulb in your home with an LED saves you money on energy bills, making it easier to recoup the cost of the lights. Potential buyers will also appreciate the long-term savings associated with LED lights because they make for a more energy-efficient home.
9. Improve your outdoor living spaces
A deck or patio are quick and inexpensive ways to make your backyard feel more like a vacation destination, attracting potential buyers to make an offer on your house. Be sure to invest in furniture that looks good but is also comfortable for relaxing outdoors, ensuring that you’ll have plenty of reasons to use your outdoor space.
10. Add a hot tub or pool in your backyard
A hot tub or pool is great for hosting friends and family, which can be useful when you’re trying to sell your house. Just make sure the hot water doesn’t run out halfway through someone’s bath, so they’ll feel pampered and relaxed — two adjectives that buyers use to describe a home they want to call their own.
11. Plant a rose garden in your yard for a sense of refinement
Adding flowers to your yard is environmentally friendly and increases the value of your house by adding color and beauty. Roses require minimal care, making them a great choice for novice gardeners.
To increase the market value of your home, you should take into account how it looks from all angles. It won’t be enough to update the kitchen and bathrooms; you might need to change the entire layout during the project.
But don’t be tempted to spend all your money on renovations. Even small changes can make a big difference. If you feel like your house is getting stale, it’s time to spice things up with some new drapes or paint. So, make sure that your house is always looking its best, especially if you plan on living in it for the long haul.
