If you’re an HGTV fan, you likely have a list of potential home projects committed to memory — or even a dedicated binder or vision board. But what happens when your budget doesn’t match your vision? You’re not alone.
Whether you’ve just purchased a new home — and are excited to jump in and make it your own — or simply don’t have the budget to major home improvement projects, take heart, you’re not faced with the impossible. Keep reading for tips on how you can decorate your home without breaking the bank.
Believe in yourself
No need to do a double-take, this isn’t a self-help article [in the traditional sense]. However, the most inexpensive way to redecorate your home on a minimal budget is to learn to tackle some projects on your own, rather than hiring out for everything. Now is the time to channel your creativity, break out your inner handyman and hone your crafting skills. If you want your home to look like you spent thousands of dollars decorating, it’s going to take some time and effort on your part.
Rearrange and repurpose
Take a look at what furniture and accent pieces you already own and try to imagine them in another room, or used for another purpose. For example, an old sideboard may not work in your dining room but would be perfect for storing clothing in your gust room. Work with the pieces you already own to minimize the number of new items you will need to purchase for your home. Sometimes rearranging your current furniture placement is enough to breathe new life into your home.
Play with paint
One of the most inexpensive and easiest ways to transform a room is to repaint it another color. If you’re not ready to commit to an entire room, consider adding an accent wall to create a pop of color and perhaps make a favorite piece of artwork stand out.
While you may not be in a position to hire a contractor to repaint your entire home, you can easily do it yourself, dedicating your time to a room or two each weekend. You’ll be surprised at how much a simple coat of paint can transform your house!
Refresh the fixtures
If you’re not in a position to install new cabinetry or countertops in your kitchen, consider resurfacing or painting your existing cabinets. One of the easiest DIY kitchen tips is to update the hardware on your cabinets and drawers — this simple change makes a big impact.
Another consideration is updating your existing lighting fixtures — sometimes swapping your old overhead lamp for a new, modern fixture is enough to transform a room. Under-cabinet lighting not only provides you with additional light in your prep areas, but it is also relatively easy to install.
Don’t forget about curb appeal
Sometimes it’s not the inside of the house that needs a facelift, it’s the exterior of your home. Not to worry — this is do-able as well, as long as you’re ready to roll up your sleeves. Curb appeal is a buzz word in real estate, but a clean and well-manicured home exterior keeps your neighbors happy and makes it inviting for you to come home.
Start by cleaning out your gutters and flower beds, pulling out weeds, leaves, and other yard debris. Once you’ve gussied-up your beds, invest in mulch to keep moisture in for your plantings and keep pesky weeds at bay. It’s amazing how much-mulched flower beds transform the look of a yard, and mulch is relatively inexpensive to buy.
