Learn how to tackle these simple and inexpensive ideas on a budget.
Our home improvement ideas will transform often-overlooked spaces with simple and budget-friendly updates.
According to a 2023 survey, about 2 in 5 homeowners exceeded their home improvement budget.
Credit: Dustin Halleck
If you like to entertain, consider mounting a wine rack next to or under upper cabinets.
Restore your floor’s shine factor by polishing with a product that is specifically designed for hardwood floors.
Awooden floor should be polishedonce a year and every four to six months in high-traffic areas of the home.
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Before you begin, thoroughlyclean the fireplaceto loosen grime.
Apply a stain-blocking primer to the clean surface before you paint to help cover any soot stains.
Consider a high-gloss paint for a beautiful, contemporary look.
Credit: Werner Straube
All you need are the right tools, a bit of time, and apaint color that inspires you.
Watch and learn how topaint cabinets like a pro.
Outfit your entryway with added function by creating ado-it-all storage system.
Credit: James Nathan Schroder
Use furniture to perform double duty, such as a bench that also acts as a shoe caddy.
Successfully light a room by creating layers of light with task, accent, and ambient lighting.
An interesting pendant, sconce, or chandelier instantly boosts a room’s sophistication.
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Even better, you’ve got the option to easilyinstall a water filterwithout hiring a professional.
Before starting, check that the under-sink space is large enough to accommodate a water filter system.
Available in all shapes and sizes, they’re sure to fit almost any willing space.
Credit: Nathan Schroder
Accessorize Your Entrance
Polish thelook of your front doorwith small accessories that pack a big punch.
Build Your Own Entry Organizer
Transform a bookcase into a versatileentryway organizer.
you’ve got the option to add additional function with hooks in just the right places.
Credit: Ann VanderWiel Wilde
In either case, you might increase the style with eye-catching paint and accessories.
Have Carpets Professionally Cleaned
When was the last time your carpets were really cleaned?
A good deep clean will help carpets wear better and last longer.
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Beaded-board panels anddecorative tile backsplashesare easy to install and can be done without professional help.
Even someone new to remodeling can do it!
Useour step-by-step guideto learn how to tile your own backsplash in a weekend or less.
Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Accentuate with Crown Molding
Trimwork and crown molding are accessories for walls, doors, and windows.
Give your home a complete look with affordable, off-the-rack moldings from a local home improvement center.
Make a Roman Shade
Give windows a custom look at a lower price usingDIY window treatments.
Credit: Brie Williams
Choose fabric in an eye-catching, complementary pattern to make the window a focal point.
Add Some Greenery
Alandscaped walkwaysuggests an inviting home.
Create natural beauty and texture with anassortment of perennials.
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Consider fragrant, colorful perennials such as phlox that you might cut for a fresh bouquet.
Replace a Showerhead
Start your day with the perfect shower experience byswitching out your shower head.
Plus, newer models are typically more water-efficient.
Credit: James Nathan Schroder
Choose a model that matches your current plumbing.
Use drawers or cabinets for linens, serving trays, and utensils.
Encourage Hassle-Free Game Time
Designate a space as a central area for often-usedgames and media.
Credit: Werner Straube
Divided shelves and a combination of shallow baskets, bins, andphoto organizershelp the space stay organized.
Labels double-check things go back to the right place.
Face DVD or video game spines outward so they are readable at a glance.
Credit: Werner Straube
An understated path of irregular-shaped flagstones creates a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
If you’refeeling crafty, outline a path with painted stones, bricks, or old garden edging.
See ourstep-by-step guideto learn how to install a bathroom vent.
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If you’re tired of wastingvaluable countertop spaceon these appliances, install an appliance lift in a base cabinet.
Many window boxes and baskets are available, so you’ll easily find something that fits your style.
Replace one of your current underperforming appliances, orpurchase a new gadgetthat you would use regularly.
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(Just remember to make room for the gadget before you get it.)
These small changes won’t go unnoticed.
Organize your home improvement supplies with everyday household items to make things easier.
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For example, repurpose spice containers or mason jars to store pesky little pieces like screws and nails.
Simplify Laundry Day
Jump-start laundry day by streamlining your sorting ritual.
Separatelaundry binsencourage organization as a daily routine.
Credit: Werner Straube
Light the Night
Illuminate your deck stairs or patio drop-offs with low-voltage lighting.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Regulating your home’s temperature is a breeze with aprogrammable thermostat.
If used correctly, you’ll save money on utility bills each year.
Credit: Rinne Allen
Modern thermostats are mercury-free and more energy-efficient than an old manual thermostat.
Smart thermostats go one step further.
In fact, upgrading the outside of your home can offer the biggest ROI.
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2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study.
Key Trends in the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report.
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