Making big changes to your home doesn’t always require an expert—or a wallet full of cash. In fact, with the right DIY projects (and essential know-how), you can use low-budget tricks to transform your property at a suitably low cost. Read on to learn about some impactful changes you can make without exceeding your budget.
Aim to Boost Overall Property Value
When it comes to improvement projects, choosing the ones that add the most value is essential. Whether you plan to sell your home or not, learning about what buyers want can indicate which features are popular in your market.
After all, appraisers look at comparable properties in your neighborhood when designating value, so you should take into account what’s popular to increase your appraisal value. High-impact and inexpensive projects that impress prospective buyers include a new front door, fresh paint, and refinished wood floors. But there are other upgrades you can make, even on a budget, that add value.
Add Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is a huge factor when it comes to home values. Especially if you’re hoping to sell, nailing the exterior of your home may be instrumental in attracting potential buyers. The best part is that you only need some inexpensive materials and sweat equity to make a big impact.
For example, power washing the siding and driveway is either free or low-cost, depending on whether you own the right equipment. Mowing the lawn and trimming shrubs takes a few hours of effort. And planting flowers in a few pots or raised beds costs very little, especially if you start growing your plants from seed.
Other projects like adding fresh numbers to your mailbox or painting the door a funky color are similarly inexpensive but add great curb appeal, confirms House Logic.
Use Lighting to Your Advantage
Lighting is another inexpensive way to make your home feel luxurious and earn a higher appraisal. It can also impact your mood, which is especially relevant if you plan on staying in your home for a while. Letting in natural light is ideal, but if installing a skylight or additional windows isn’t in the budget, swapping out lightbulbs is a much cheaper option.
Choosing the right lighting will depend on your space and budget, so consider the options carefully. Halogen bulbs provide a “close approximation” of daylight, notes HGTV. However, this option is also pricier than less natural-looking incandescent lights. Energy efficiency is also a factor, whether you’re hoping to reduce your electric bill or appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
Keep Things Cost-Efficient
Of course not all home renovations are inexpensive, but there are some ways to save.
Save Up in Advance
Ideally, you’ll already have a budget for addressing unexpected home repairs. But building cash reserves over time can also help you save up for larger-scale projects like replacing wood floors or swapping out windows. These projects can have a big impact, but they’re not the most budget-friendly.
Prioritize DIYs Whenever Possible
Going the DIY route is also a smart step toward upgrading your home without overpaying. While you shouldn’t go it alone on most electrical and plumbing tasks, projects like painting, caulking, and refinishing floors are doable.
Projects that involve a lot of effort but a low up-front investment—such as manually refinishing wood flooring or painting—are often worth your time.
Shop Around if You Require an Expert
Do your homework first if you need an expert for something that’s not safe to DIY. Compare rates and get quotes from at least three companies before choosing one. You’ll get a feel for the company’s expertise and level of customer service by having someone come out to provide an estimate. Then, you can make a decision with confidence.
Home improvement isn’t always straightforward, but it doesn’t need to be exorbitantly expensive. With the right mindset—and a willingness to get your hands dirty—you can overhaul your home with impactful DIYs. Whether you’re selling, refinancing, or just looking to increase value, you can’t go wrong with transformative changes on a budget.
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