Everyone has home renovation ideas all the time. This is a great way to improve the value of your property, increase your home’s livability, and make it more sustainable. But before you get started on your renovation project, having a budget in mind and a definitive plan for action is essential.
Several factors can affect the cost of a renovation project. The size and scope of the project, materials used, labor costs, and your skillset are just some examples.
By George Nicola (Expert Stager)
Making changes to your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It is possible to make changes without spending big, as those small details can often have a disproportionate impact.
However, there are two essential things you will need to succeed – a little DIY skills and a passion for looking for bargains.
While you might want to do a top to bottom renovation of every room in your house, the truth is that there is no need.
Below we offer some budget tips, ranked with “Home renovations impact score” from the most impactful to the least.
Tiny changes can have significant impact
You don’t have to start by pulling out the cupboards, getting new furniture and completely changing the flooring, and generally starting from scratch. Instead, you can change the minor details, such as the door and draw handles, to have a surprisingly powerful effect.
You can change the handles to matte aluminum or even brushed gold and have a startling effect on the modernity of your cupboards.
You can create a new overarching theme in your home by only changing the metals you use.
Look around at details such as the lighting fixtures and door handles and change these to a newer, more modern trend, and you can revolutionize the look for less than a hundred pounds.
What rooms to renovate first on a tiny budget?
Even if you have a small home but a small budget for home renovations, it’s a good idea to prioritize the renovations that will have the most impact and provide the greatest benefits.
Here are a few rooms that you might consider renovating first:
Kitchen: A well-designed, functional kitchen can be a significant selling point, and it can also be a central gathering place for your family.
Paint the cabinets: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of your kitchen. Choose a color that complements your existing decor, or go for something bold and dramatic to make a statement.
Replace the hardware: Changing the handles and knobs on your cabinets can give them a new look without a major investment. Choose hardware that matches the style of your kitchen, or go for something more modern or unique. Do not buy new, but instead look at online second-hand shops.
Add new lighting: New lighting can brighten up your kitchen and make it feel more modern. Consider adding pendant lights over the island, under-cabinet lighting, or a new ceiling fixture.
Update the backsplash: A new backsplash can add color and interest to your kitchen. Consider using tiles, stone, or even reclaimed wood for a unique, rustic look. Look at second-hand or used tiles online.
Install open shelving: Open shelving can add a modern, airy feel to your kitchen, and it’s a relatively inexpensive way to display your dishes and other items.
Add plants: Bringing some greenery into your kitchen can add life and color to the space. Consider adding herbs, succulents, or other plants that are easy to care for.
Overall, there are many ways to update a kitchen on a small budget. By focusing on small, affordable changes, you can give your kitchen a fresh, new look without breaking the bank.
Bathroom: A new bathroom can add value to your home and make it more comfortable and functional for you and your family. This could involve updating the fixtures, installing a new vanity or shower, or adding new flooring and tile.
There are several ways to update a bathroom on a small budget:
Paint the walls: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of your bathroom. Choose a color that complements your existing decor, or go for something bold and dramatic to make a statement.
Replace the hardware: Changing the handles and knobs on your cabinets and drawers can give them a new look without a major investment. Choose hardware that matches the style of your bathroom, or go for something more modern or unique.
Add new lighting: New lighting can brighten up your bathroom and make it feel more modern. Consider adding sconces, pendant lights, or a new ceiling fixture. There are plenty of wall sconces with adhesive installation.
Update the showerhead: A new showerhead can make your shower more enjoyable and can also save water. Look for options with different spray patterns or features, like a built-in water filter.
Install a new vanity: A new vanity can completely change the look of your bathroom and provide additional storage space. Depending on where you live, you might find great second-hand vanity units online that cost just a 1/4 of the original price.
Add plants: If the space allows bringing some greenery into your bathroom can add life and color. Consider adding herbs, succulents, or other plants that are easy to care for.
Overall, there are many ways to update a bathroom on a small budget. By focusing on small, affordable changes, you can give your bathroom a fresh, new look without breaking the bank.
Living room: The living room is often the first thing people see when they enter a home, and it can set the tone for the rest of the space. Updating your living room with new furniture, lighting, and decor can make it a more inviting and comfortable place to be.
There are several ways to update a living room on a small budget:
Paint the walls: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of your living room. Choose a color that complements your existing decor, or go for something bold and dramatic to make a statement.
Update the furniture: Adding new furniture or reupholstering your existing pieces can give your living room a new look. Also, consider mixing and matching styles for a more eclectic feel.
Add new lighting: New lighting can brighten up your living room and make it feel more modern. Consider adding floor lamps, table lamps, or a contemporary chandelier.
Update the curtains or blinds: New window treatments can add color and pattern to your living room. Consider using sheer or light-filtering fabrics for a more natural, airy feel. The best place to source fabrics is your nearby curtain shop; ask them if they have something they are thinking of throwing away or perhaps have a limited quantity, or it is out of production.
Add new pillows and throws: New pillows and throws can add color and texture to your living room and are a relatively inexpensive way to update the space.
Add plants: Bringing some greenery into your living room can add life and color to the space. Consider adding herbs, succulents, or other easy plants to care for.
Overall, many ways to update a living room on a small budget exist. However, focusing on small, affordable changes can give your living room a fresh, new look without breaking the bank.
Bedroom: A new bedroom can be a relaxing, peaceful retreat, and it can also add value to your home. This could involve new furniture, bedding, and decor, as well as updates to the flooring and paint.
There are several ways to update a bedroom on a small budget:
Paint the walls: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of your bedroom. Choose a color that complements your existing decor, or go for something bold and dramatic to make a statement.
Update the bedding: New bedding can add color and texture to your bedroom, and it’s a relatively inexpensive way to update the space. Consider using a mix of patterns and solids for a more eclectic look.
Add new lighting: New lighting can brighten up your bedroom and make it feel more modern. Consider adding a second-hand table lamp, sconces, or a vintage ceiling fixture.
Update the curtains or blinds: Different window treatments can add color and pattern to your bedroom. Consider using sheer or light-filtering fabrics for a more natural, airy feel.
Add new decorative accents: New pillows, throws, and other decorative accents can add color and interest to your bedroom. Consider using items with unique shapes, textures, and patterns to add visual interest. Charity shops or garage sales are excellent places for finding accent pieces.
Add plants: Bringing some greenery into your bedroom can add life and color to the space. Consider adding herbs, succulents, or other plants that are easy to care for.
Overall, there are many ways to update a bedroom on a small budget. By focusing on small, affordable changes, you can give your bedroom a fresh, new look without breaking the bank.
Budget-friendly home renovation project planner
If you’ve decided to invest some time in upgrading your home on a budget, there are several steps you can take to make the most of your investment:
Set clear goals: Determine what you hope to achieve with your renovation and design project. Do you want to update the look of your home, create a more functional space, or both? Clear goals will help you focus efforts and make the most of your budget.
Work with a virtual renovation designer: This service can be beneficial for planning and budgeting renovations, as they allow you to experiment with different layouts, materials, and finishes without committing to any changes.
Virtual renovation designers can be used for various projects, including kitchen and bathroom renovations, room additions, and outdoor spaces, and all they need are measurements and photos.Research and gather inspiration: Look online for inspiration and ideas that fit your style and budget. Create a mood board or a Pinterest board to collect your thoughts and help visualize your project.
Make a budget plan: Determine how much money you have available for your project, and allocate it carefully. Prioritize the updates that will have the most impact, and set aside some money for unexpected expenses.
Don’t be afraid to DIY: There are many ways to update your home on a budget, and many of them can be done yourself. For example, consider painting, reorganizing, or adding small decorative touches to give your space a fresh, new look.
Flooring
Choosing the right flooring can have a significant impact if you want to give your home a different look but want to ensure your budget is manageable.
Switching from your tired lino or carpet to some wood flooring or tiles can give your décor the boost it needs. If you choose stone flooring, you will find the look timeless, and it will last, offering you excellent value for money on the investment.
Several types of wooden flooring are relatively budget-friendly. Here are a few options to consider ranked from most cost-effective to least:
Laminate wood flooring: Laminate wood flooring is made from a composite material covered with a photograph of the wood grain. It is less expensive than solid wood and is easy to install and maintain.
Bamboo flooring: Bamboo is a sustainable and durable material that can be used for flooring. It is generally less expensive than traditional hardwood and is available in various colors and styles.
Engineered wood flooring: Engineered wood flooring is made from layers of natural wood that are bonded together to create a stable, durable surface. It is typically less expensive than solid wood and can be installed on top of most subfloors.
Pine flooring: Pine is a soft wood often used for flooring. It is relatively inexpensive and can be stained or painted to achieve a variety of looks.
The most budget-friendly option will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to compare the costs and benefits of different wooden flooring types before deciding.
Choosing cheap flooring is an option and can uplift a room without doing much else, though remember how quickly it dates and how this money does nothing to the property’s value, whereas a more significant investment might.
Update countertops in your kitchens
Like floors and handles, countertops are one change that can make a massive difference to a kitchen’s appearance.
You can take an outdated kitchen and raise it to the level of chic with the right choice of materials. Worktops are also a part of a kitchen that can look the most tired, as it takes much punishment.
Marble, granite, and wood are beautiful materials, and the natural grain and patina can add value to a kitchen but may not be the most budget-friendly option.
Choosing a timeless and durable material here can be an investment, as it would be a feature that might encourage a future buyer to pay more for your property.
Improved function: New countertops can provide more counter space, which can be especially useful in smaller kitchens. They may also have features such as built-in cutting boards, drain boards, and backsplashes that can make food preparation and clean-up easier.
Increased durability: Many new countertop materials, such as granite and quartz, are more durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat than older materials like laminate. This means they will hold up better over time and require less maintenance.
Enhanced aesthetics: New countertops can completely transform the look of a kitchen, giving it a fresh, modern feel. There are many different materials, colors, and styles to choose from, so you can find something that matches your personal taste and the style of your home.
Improved value: Investing in new countertops can increase the value of your home, especially if you choose high-quality materials. This can make it easier to sell your home in the future or simply make you more comfortable living in it.
Greater convenience: Some new countertop materials, such as solid surface options, are non-porous, which means they don’t absorb liquids and are easier to clean. This can make maintaining your kitchen more convenient and hygienic.
Laminate is one of the best options when making a budget kitchen renovation.
This material is one of the most budget-friendly countertop materials and is relatively easy to install. Laminate is made from several layers of paper that have been fused with resin, often featuring a decorative pattern.
Due to its affordability and customizable nature, this product can be used to create inexpensive yet stylish countertops that are durable and water-resistant.
With regular cleaning and care, it can look as good as new for years.
Furthermore, laminate does not require any special maintenance measures or expensive sealers like other countertop materials do.
A high-quality kitchen can add significant value (between 4 and as much as 25%) to a house in several ways. First and foremost, it can make the home more attractive to potential buyers or renters. A well-designed, functional kitchen can be a significant selling point, especially in a competitive real estate market.
Homebuyers are often willing to pay more for a home that has been well-maintained and updated with high-quality features. This can include things like new appliances, countertops, cabinets, and flooring.
Like flooring, there are veneers on the market that fit everyone’s budget so that you can get the look of these materials at a more affordable price.
However, an excellent reason to make more expensive changes here is the recognition that a kitchen is often the hub of a home.
Consequently, setting some money aside to transform this area can also impact how the room is used. Therefore, it could be the best decision you made when hoping to turn a house into a home.
Paint existing furniture
Another easy hack is to try out new colors on your furniture. Investing in new cupboards and bookshelves for your home can feel unaffordable.
Indeed, it could be a waste of money to take perfectly usable cabinets to the dump and replace them for the sake of the need for a change. Consequently, a lick of paint might be called for.
You don’t have to go for a flat, matte finish to your cabinets, changing only the color. Instead, you can use glazes and stains to create a different look to the surface and add new textures to your kitchen.
Current fashions suggest black, navy blue, and forest green are intense colors, though you might want to go more timeless with cream or white and use appliances to add a flash of brightness instead.
New seating area
It might be that the rooms in your home don’t serve the purpose you hoped for.
For instance, for many, the kitchen is an area only for preparing food; for others, it is a gathering space.
Therefore, the change you want to make might be to add or extend the place where people can sit as you cook or where eating can happen casually, straight from the pot to the plate to the mouth.
If this is the case, add a bench, breakfast bar, or stylish stools to revamp your kitchen. While your heart says, you need a complete renovation, adapting the design to fulfill your desires is a great way to invest your money.
Equally, buying new cushions and throws for your living room can transform this seating area on a budget.
New lighting
When you speak to an artist about what makes a great work, they will tell you it is the depiction of light. The same is true in interior design.
A dingy room with no appeal can be brought to life with the proper lighting. There might be little wrong with the decoration or your choice of furniture; it is that they are hidden in the shadows.
There are experts in lighting who can design the ambiance of your space. Yet, even the simple introduction of a dimmer switch can add versatility to the area, allowing you to change the atmosphere for a dinner party versus a quiet night at home.
Add some decorative elements
Adding decorative elements to your home can turn functional into homely and then homely into stylish.
For instance, having some artwork and plants scattered around the house can add a touch of brilliance to your home.
Why not put up some shelves and showcase your books or your best china? Even having a bowl of fruit or a vase of fresh flowers on the side can add a splash of color to a dull area of your house.
A new coat of paint on the walls
A simple refresh of color can breathe new life into a room and completely change your attitude toward the space. Sometimes we get bored with the same background the whole time, and a lick of paint can change all that.
If you have time and money to spare, you can think about brick or tile for the walls to bring a completely new aesthetic to the area.
Equally, considering how each room blends into other rooms can really change your attitude toward the presentation of your home.
Key Takeaways
While you can go all in and call in the interior designer, you don’t have to invest that much time or money in the project.
Some small changes to upgrading a home can do much to improve your feelings towards this space.
Consequently, investing a more significant sum in some stand-out features, such as a stone floor or a powerful lighting scheme, can return some of its investment in the value of your home.
If you have questions about the sale of your house, reach us at tallboxdesign to help plan what’s best for your home.
