Once you start planning your remodeling project, it’s easy for all those dollars to stack up. Whether you’re looking to make changes for comfort or to sell for a higher price, it’s possible to renovate on a budget.
While home improvement projects can be expensive, paint can go a long way to renovating the space without the excess money required. Though it can be more costly to upgrade the floors, you can allocate more of your budget for high-end needs.
Let’s focus on some tips to help you:
Tips for Renovating Your Home on a Budget
There are many ways to give your home a makeover without spending a ton of cash. Check out these tips below:
- Stick to the Budget – Set a budget for the renovation and don’t stray from it. Add in a cushion for unforeseen costs that could arise. Most professionals recommend 15 to 20 percent extra, especially when dealing with floors.
- Shop Around for the Best Prices – Take time out of your busy schedule to shop for materials and supplies. This will help you get great deals and can be a warning to wait if prices are too high.
- Handle Debris Disposal Yourself – Renting a dumpster for the duration of the remodeling project is an easy way to save money and clean as you go. You can put all the old flooring and other debris in without being charged more by the renovation company.
- Have a Backup Space – It’s important to have a functional backup space inside the home when areas are being worked on. For example, you may have to set up a separate bathroom or kitchen that’s useable.
- Consider Paint – Paint is an inexpensive product and can totally change the entire feel of the space. Don’t forget to use it to update the area.
- DIY Home Renovations When Possible – The DIY route works well for many people, but it’s important to ensure you have the tools and skills necessary for the job. You may also consider hiring someone for certain parts of the work.
Leading Home Remodeling Ideas on a Budget
With so many ways to upgrade the house, it’s important to focus on your specific needs and the money you have.
Check out these home renovation ideas on a budget:
Kitchen Remodel Ideas
You likely spend a lot of time in your kitchen, so the things within should reflect your personality. There’s no need to spend a ton of money for a nice refresh. Think about what’s most important to you, such as the flooring, and go from there.
- Paint the Cabinets – If you have decent existing cabinets in the kitchen, consider painting the doors a new color.
- Update the Countertops – Typically, countertops are the focal point of a kitchen. Consider your preferred style. You may go with quartz because it looks like granite but might be less expensive in your area.
- Search for Deals on Appliances – If the kitchen needs new appliances, consider scratch-and-dent deals. Everything doesn’t have to be top-of-the-line to get quality.
- Add a Backsplash – Choose an area of your kitchen to splurge on. A new backsplash wall behind the stove is a great DIY project, and it’s easier when you use peel-and-stick options. Plus, you could select less expensive tiles for the rest of the space.
Bathroom Remodel Ideas
If you’re on a budget, one of your bathrooms should be on the list for an upgrade. You may not have to do a full renovation; pick out a few small things to change. Here are some ideas:
- Refinish Instead of Replace – One easy way to save in the bathroom is to refinish the tub. Most of the time, you don’t have to replace it entirely. Alternatively, you can go the DIY route to update to a stand-alone shower without breaking the bank (if you have the skills to do the work).
- Freshen the Walls and Trim – A fresh coat of paint can significantly impact a small space like the bathroom. Add a splash of color and keep the rest of the walls simple with beige or off-white. When at the hardware store, ensure you choose the right product. Many formulations can prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Consider the Same Layout – If you’re generally happy with the layout of the bathroom, you can make simple changes to make it feel like a new space. This will help you save money.
- Paint Cabinetry – Update the bathroom vanity by painting it a different color. You can add new hardware to the doors and cabinets to make them more of a focal point, too.
Other Remodeling Ideas for Your Home
Overall, you could still update other areas of the home if you’re on a budget. While there are many things you can do to save money, the best way to make an old space new again is to consider painting the area. Check out these other ideas:
- Open Up the Space – Merge two rooms by removing a wall to make your house feel new and improve its flow. Ensure that it’s not load-bearing first.
- Finish the Basement – To add value and useable square footage to the house, finish your basement. You’ll have more living space or can use it for storage. Just be aware that it might not be a DIY project, depending on your skills.
- Refurbish/Rearrange Furniture – Rearranging your furniture can change the look and feel of a room. In fact, it can make it seem new and fresh again, and it doesn’t require any budget. However, you may need some materials if you plan to refurbish wood and reupholster chairs.
- Update the Flooring – If your living room has old carpet, look beneath. There could be hardwood floors below. Even if there isn’t, you can remove the old materials and install new ones yourself to have a beautiful space.
- Don’t Forget About the Home’s Exterior – Think about upgrading the exterior of your home by installing a patio or deck, painting, pressure washing, and more.
Final Thoughts
A home improvement project can be inexpensive and offers a fresh, new feel to any space. Whether you focus on the kitchen, bathroom, basement, or exterior, you’ll likely need help. Though you can paint and do small tasks alone, it’s wise to hire a Sarasota remodeling & design firm for most things, such as floor updates.