Upgrading your new home doesn’t have to cost a fortune or break the bank. Even small DIY projects can add value to your home when it’s time to sell.
Consider replacing door, cabinet, and closet knobs for a modern look that’s inexpensive and easy to complete! Landscaping is also an effective way to improve your home’s curb appeal.
Paint Your Walls
A fresh coat of paint is a simple and affordable way to transform any space. It’s also a great opportunity to add a pop of color or introduce a new neutral palette.
To prepare for painting, clear the working area and remove furniture from the room if possible. If there are items that must remain in place, cover them with a tarp or canvas to protect them from paint splatters.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a stencil to create a pattern or texture on the wall. This works best if the stencil is lighter than the existing wall color. It’s also a good idea to tape off any electrical sockets and switches to avoid getting paint on them. If you’re unsure how to get started, consult the internet for inspiration and step-by-step guides.
Add a Feature Wall
If you’re looking to make your new home truly your own, adding a feature wall is one of the best ways. However, be aware that when done wrong, they can look chaotic and can distract your guests from the rest of your furniture and accessories.
Whether you choose a bright paint shade or more subtle wallpaper, a feature wall can instantly elevate your space. Just be careful that your choice doesn’t date too quickly, as trends come and go each year.
In open-plan spaces, a feature wall can also help to delineate different areas. In this example, a herringbone wood-clad wall separates the living and dining areas. This DIY accent wall is an easy project for anyone with basic carpentry skills and can add texture and depth to a room.
Give Your Ceiling a Makeover
The ceiling is often overlooked when it comes to home improvement projects, but there are lots of ways you can transform your “5th wall” without doing a major remodel. From painting it a different color to adding tin or beams you can easily add a feature to your room.
You can also add texture to your ceiling by painting or stenciling a design on it. This is a great way to create an accent wall without breaking the bank.
Another budget-friendly way to give your ceiling a makeover is by adding wooden beams. This is a popular option that can be done in a variety of styles from rustic to modern. You can even paint the beams a different color to draw the eye upward. Be sure to choose a color that coordinates with your walls and decorations.
Renovate Your Entryway
Your entryway is the gateway to your home, and it needs to be both functional and beautiful. Ideally, it should offer plenty of storage for all of your family’s coats, shoes and umbrellas, as well as provide space for you to place things like mail and keys on the way in and out.
The best entryway design ideas incorporate clutter-clearing elements like benches, hooks and storage bins that can keep your space organized while looking stylish. Add a pop of color with textured wallpaper or shiplap for visual interest in an otherwise neutral space.
Baskets are another easy storage solution that can easily fit on shelves, under a bench or in the hallway for a more decorative look. They’re available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials to match any decor theme. Keep a few on hand to easily organize things like mail, keys and pet leashes as you come in and out of your new home.
Add Shelving and Storage Baskets
If your new house is lacking storage space, this is a great do-it-yourself home improvement project. You can find inexpensive shelving at the home improvement store, or you can repurpose items like spice containers and mason jars for easy storage.
Another way to add more storage space is to install cabinets in your garage or basement, or even a built-in bookcase. You can also organize your tools and other household supplies by using repurposed items like mason jars.
One of the most important ways to make your home more energy efficient is by upgrading your appliances. Newer refrigerators, washer-dryers, and dishwashers are more energy efficient than older models, and will save you money on utilities! You can even upgrade your floors with laminate flooring that looks like wood.
Get Organized in the Garage
Adding shelving and storage baskets throughout your home is an easy, inexpensive home improvement that will help you enjoy your new house. They’re great for taming clutter and creating a more organized space.
Repurpose spice containers or mason jars to store small pieces like nails and screws that can quickly pile up in the garage. These clever storage hacks make it easier to access those pesky tools and supplies.
If your garage is a mess, you can install a wall mounted pegboard with bins to hold everything from hoses to cleaning supplies. It’s also an opportunity to seal any cracks and crevices that could allow hot or cold air into your garage. This will improve your home’s energy efficiency! It’s worth it for the peace of mind and added functionality. You’ll be thanking yourself for doing this home upgrade year after year!
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
If you’re looking to make your home more energy efficient, there are many ways that you can go about it. You can start by adding more insulation. This will prevent drafts and save you money in the long run.
You can also upgrade your appliances to more efficient ones. For example, you can install a new refrigerator or washer-dryer that is more energy-efficient than older models.
Another way to make your home more energy efficient is by installing LED light bulbs and a smart thermostat. Lastly, you can also insulate your walls and attic to reduce your energy bills even further. Finally, if you have extra space in your home, you can add a room addition that you can use as a home office, playroom, or workout area. Just remember that this can be a costly project, so it’s important to budget appropriately.
Renovate Your Walls
If your walls are covered in scuff marks, scratches and old paint, you’ll want to give them a fresh coat of paint. This is an easy and inexpensive DIY project that will instantly upgrade your home’s look.
If you want to add a pop of color without having to repaint the entire room, consider adding an accent wall. This will also cost less and take less time than painting an entire room.
Adding a skylight to your home is an excellent way to increase natural light, which can help lower your energy bills. Other ways to make your home more energy efficient include using LED lights, installing a smart thermostat and sealing air leaks. By making these simple improvements, you can save money on your energy bill and feel more comfortable in your home.
Finish Your Attic
Whether you’re looking to add an extra bedroom, home office or playroom, finishing your attic will help make it a functional space. It will also increase the value of your home should you ever decide to sell it.
If you’re planning to use your attic for living space, hire a professional to conduct a structural analysis to ensure that the floor and ceiling joists are strong enough to support the weight of people and furniture. You’ll also need to add flooring and insulation.
Invest in some shelving and storage baskets to keep your attic organized and free from dust bunnies. It’s also a good idea to install a broom closet to store cleaning supplies that you don’t want to lug down the stairs every time you clean. Lastly, don’t forget to hang some curtains to give your attic a finished look.
Add a Room Addition
If more space is on your wish list, a home addition is an excellent option. This type of project is usually best left to a general contractor who will employ a staff of salaried and subcontracted general carpenters along with specialty subcontractors for plumbing, electrical, HVAC work, etc. It’s important to map out your wish list before meeting with a design build team and contractor.
A room addition can include any number of different types of spaces, from a sunroom to a family room to a laundry room or mudroom. The key is to think about both function and resale value. A well-designed and well-built room addition can add a great deal of value to your home in the long run. In the meantime, it can make your new house feel more like a dream home.
