Renovations can be very expensive. Whether you are looking to renovate your own home or an investment property, it can be an important financial decision. According to a recent report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, U.S homeowners spend "$400 billion per year on home improvements and repairs". If you want to increase the value of your house and make it more attractive without spending the big bucks, there are several budget friendly updates that can significantly help benefit homeowners.
Here are 7 ways to upgrade your home on a budget:
1. Change the lighting
For real! I know this sounds like a no-brainer but you’d be surprised how many people don’t even realize the lighting in their home is too dull or too “yellow” (for a lack of a better word). The lighting in your house can have a huge impact in the vibe you get when you walk in a particular space. Swapping older soft white bulbs for daylight bulbs could be the biggest bang for buck improvement out there. In addition, swapping older light fixtures for newer LED lighting can go a long way and be relatively inexpensive as well (not to mention the cost savings for installing LED bulbs!).
2. Change the kitchen cabinets
Very often, the kitchen cabinets are old and outdated. The most cost effective way to update them is to paint them a bright neutral color. You can also add a trim to the cabinet to change the look without totally replacing them. Also, try updating the kitchen handles, it will give the whole kitchen a more modern aspect.
3. Upgrade your countertops
Sometimes you don't have to buy a whole granite countertop to make your place look more luxurious. Nowadays, there is a DIY paint kit that will help you upgrade your countertops to faux granite. This is a great way to not spend a fortune trying to replace it. It is very easy to find the paint kit online.
4. Change the paint color
One of the simplest ways to refresh your home is with a fresh coat of paint. This is the most commonly used upgrade as it works wonders. We highly recommend sticking to neutral colors that will make the property feel more open.
5. Change bathroom caulk
Over time, caulk can get dried out, brittle, and discolored. And in extreme cases it can even start growing mold. Removing the old caulk and replacing it can be done in as little as ten minutes. For a quick “How To” guide, check out this great video tutorial here. Also, when you go to buy the caulk (which is extremely cheap), make sure you are buying the bathroom and kitchen caulk that is meant for wet areas and is mold resistant. Spending a few extra dollars on the good caulk will save you the headache of having to redo this whole process in only a few months time.
6. Add a stair runner
This is one of my personal favorites since it’s not permanent. Spice things up with a fancy stair runner! This could be a great accent piece so don’t be afraid to be bold and try something new! You can always swap it out months or years later when trends change and you want a new look.
7. Clean, clean clean!
Again, kind of a no-brainer but when you’re in charge of cleaning the same space day in a day out, you often overlook things. All humans get in a routine and sometimes that routine focuses on certain aspects while neglecting others. Hiring a professional cleaning crew to come in a few times a year to give your home a deep clean could make a huge difference and give you the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful weekend of rest and relaxation that is long overdue!
These are just a few of the many ways to update your home without spending a lot of money on a major renovation. Start with the smaller items and slowly start adding different elements.
If you have any ideas or suggestions, our team at Landmark Property Management would love to hear from you! Feel free to give us a call 312-313-8553 or email us at Office@landmarkrgc.com.
