Upgrading your home doesn’t have to be an expensive proposition. Whether you’re planning to sell it or just want to spruce up your living space, the right DIY projects can preserve your property value, add comfort and make a lasting impression.
Many of the following cheap diy home renovations skew more toward cosmetic changes rather than structural overhauls, but they can still dramatically change the look and feel of a room or the entire home. For instance, you can create a stunning front door from a little paint and new hardware; outfit cabinets with inexpensive dividers and pull-out drawers for pot trays and lazy Susans; or transform a drab balcony with outdoor furniture and colorful blooms.
Just be sure to do your research and know your limits — even relatively simple projects like changing out towel bars or swapping out faucets can escalate into larger jobs without proper planning. Anticipating all project costs upfront can help you avoid costly surprises, like when a bathroom remodel includes moving the toilet, which blows up the plumbing budget. It also helps to have an idea of what style you’re after, rather than relying on a contractor’s predetermined allowances (which may be different from yours).