Upgrade Your Home for $100 or Less: Tips from the r/HomeImprovement Community
Having a home to call your own is a blessing, especially in today’s housing market where downpayments and mortgages can be incredibly expensive. However, you don’t have to break the bank to make your home look good and feel great, even if it’s older and mustier.
1. Soft-Close Toilet Seats
Installing soft-close toilet seats is a popular and affordable upgrade. They provide a more elegant touch to your bathroom while preventing accidental slamming of the seat. You can find them on websites like Amazon for a reasonable price.
2. Convert Kitchen Shelves to Drawers
If you have kitchen shelves that are lower than your chest, consider converting them into drawers. This allows for easier access to your kitchen essentials and creates a more organized and efficient space. You can start with the ones you use the most and gradually convert more shelves over time.
3. Powerwash Exterior Surfaces
Investing in a powerwasher can make a significant difference in the appearance of your home’s exteriors. Cleaning up stones, walls, siding, and other surfaces can have a huge impact on the overall aesthetics. It’s a simple and affordable way to freshen up the outside of your home.
4. Slide-Out Trash Can and Recycling Bin
Installing a slide-out trash can and recycling bin in your kitchen is a practical and convenient upgrade. It helps keep your garbage and recycling hidden away while allowing for easy access and disposal. This simple addition can make a big difference in maintaining a cleaner and more organized kitchen space.
5. Repaint Kitchen Cabinets
If you’re looking to refresh your kitchen, repainting your cabinets can give them a new lease on life. Clean the surfaces, scuff them up with sandpaper, prime them, and apply two coats of paint. This affordable project can greatly improve the appearance of your kitchen.
6. Replace Light Fixtures and Switches
Upgrading your light fixtures and switches can instantly enhance the look and feel of any room. Replacing outdated or worn-out fixtures and covers with more modern and stylish options can make a significant impact. Look for discounted or discounted options to find affordable options.
7. LED Lights and Warm Bulbs
Replacing regular lightbulbs with LED lights can improve both energy efficiency and the ambiance of your home. Look for warm LEDs with a color temperature of around 2700K for a cozy and inviting atmosphere. LED lights can be found at affordable prices on websites like Amazon and IKEA.
8. Curved Shower Rod
Invest in a curved shower rod, especially if your shower is narrow. It provides more space and prevents the shower curtain from sticking to you while showering. This simple upgrade can make a significant difference in both comfort and functionality.
9. Paint Your Cabinets and Light Switches
Add a fresh coat of paint to your kitchen cabinets and light switches for an instant improvement. Cleaning and sanding the surfaces before painting can ensure a smooth and durable finish. Choose a color that complements your kitchen’s style and enjoy the transformation.
10. Timer Switch for Bathroom Fan
Installing a timer switch for your bathroom fan can save energy and ensure it automatically shuts off after a set period. This prevents leaving the fan on for too long or forgetting to turn it off, providing better ventilation and reducing noise.
These are just a few of the many affordable and creative ways to upgrade your home without breaking the bank. With some DIY skills and a bit of creativity, you can turn your house into a more comfortable and visually appealing space.