Many households have switched to bottled water due to concerns about tap water quality. However, an under-sink water filtration system is a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. These systems are relatively easy to install and provide clean, great-tasting water right from your tap. Not only will this upgrade save you money on bottled water in the long run, but it’s also an attractive feature for potential buyers if you’re planning to sell.
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# Low-Cost Home Improvement Upgrades

Need to spruce up your home on a budget? Here are our favorite low-cost, DIY projects.

A remodeled bathroom with two sinks and a mirror.

Mike Casey

Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or just looking to freshen things up, there are plenty of affordable home upgrades that make a big impact. Here are our favorite budget-friendly home improvements, from quick, do-it-yourself (DIY) projects to small investments that yield high returns.

## Revitalize Your Walls and Floors on a Budget

Updating your walls and floors is one of the best ways to transform your living space. These surfaces cover a large area of your home, so even small changes can make a big difference. Here are three affordable ways to update your walls and floors.

### Give Your Walls a Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the most cost-effective ways to update your home is by painting. A new color can completely change the look and feel of a room, making it feel cleaner, brighter, and more modern. It’s a DIY project you can tackle over a weekend without any labor costs. Choose a neutral color for a broad appeal if you’re planning to sell, or go bold with an accent wall if that better expresses your personal style.

Mauro Henrique applying tape to the floor to prepare for a painting project.Mike Casey

### Renew Old Flooring with Paint

If replacing your flooring isn’t in the budget, consider painting it. This works particularly well on wood floors but can also be applied to concrete. For a unique look, paint a light-checked pattern in beige and white to update the space without the cost of refinishing or replacing the flooring.

### Install Crown Molding and Update Trim

Adding crown molding or updating your trim adds character to your home. While wood is a popular choice, there are more affordable options like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or foam that are easier to install and better able to resist moisture. For areas humidity-prone areas, like bathrooms, PVC crown molding is a good choice. Remember to paint the molding before installation for a smoother finish.

## Upgrade Your Kitchen on a Dime

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and upgrading it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here are three budget-friendly ways to give your kitchen a fresh look:

### Update Cabinets Without Replacing Them

New cabinets can be expensive, but you can achieve a fresh look without replacing them entirely. One of the simplest and most affordable updates is to change the cabinet hardware. New knobs and pulls can modernize the entire kitchen. You can paint your cabinets if they need more of an overhaul.

### Give Kitchen Cabinets a Flawless New Finish

An image of a water filter installed on a wall in front of a kitchen.Nat Rea

If your kitchen feels dreary due to dark cabinets, a fresh coat of paint can transform it. As long as the cabinet frames and doors are structurally sound, you can convert them with some elbow grease and paint. Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets, then sand them lightly before applying paint. Choose a light color to brighten up the space and make it feel larger.

### Install a Water Filter for Affordable Clean Water

Many households have switched to bottled water due to concerns about tap water quality. However, an under-sink water filtration system is a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. These systems are relatively easy to install and provide clean, great-tasting water right from your tap. Not only will this upgrade save you money on bottled water in the long run, but it’s also an attractive feature for potential buyers if you’re planning to sell.

## Affordably Transform Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are often overlooked when it comes to home upgrades, but small refreshes can go a long way.

### Replace Bath Hardware for a Quick Facelift

Updating your bathroom hardware is a quick and easy way to give the space a new look. Replace old faucets, showerheads, towel bars, and cabinet pulls with modern, matching pieces. This simple change can make your bathroom feel more cohesive and up-to-date. Consider switching from chrome to brushed nickel or matte black for a more contemporary look.

### Prevent Mold With a Bathroom Vent Fan

Installing a ventilation fan in your bathroom does more than eliminate foggy mirrors and odors. It also helps prevent moisture-related problems like mold and mildew growth, which can be costly to remove and potentially harmful to your health. A good vent fan will keep your bathroom dry and fresh, protecting your home long-term. While we recommend professional installation, this upgrade is still relatively affordable and can significantly improve your bathroom’s functionality.

### Refresh Your Bathroom Caulk

Over time, the caulk around your tub, shower, and sink can become discolored or start to peel, allowing water to seep behind tiles or under fixtures. Removing old caulk and applying a fresh bead is an easy and inexpensive way to spruce up your bathroom and prevent water damage. Choose a high-quality, mold-resistant caulk for best results. This simple task can make your bathroom look cleaner and well-kept, which is especially important if you plan to sell.

A remodeled bathroom with two sinks and a mirror.Mike Casey

## Boost Your Home’s Lighting and Comfort

Good lighting and temperature control can make a huge difference in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.

### Upgrade Interior and Exterior Lighting

Updating your home’s lighting can drastically improve its ambiance and functionality. Start by replacing old bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights. These not only use less energy but also provide better illumination. Installing well-placed outdoor lights can elevate safety and curb appeal. For energy savings, look into solar-powered options for outdoor lighting.

### Install Ceiling Fans for Year-Round Savings

Ceiling fans are a great investment for summer and winter. In warm months, they create cooling breezes that reduce the strain on air conditioners. In winter, they can be reversed to circulate warm air and keep rooms cozy. Installing a ceiling fan is a pretty simple DIY project, especially if you’re replacing an existing light fixture. The energy savings from reduced HVAC usage can quickly offset the fan cost

### Make Shade and Add Privacy with Interior Shutters

Interior shutters are a stylish alternative to curtains or blinds. They create excellent light control and privacy while adding an architectural design element to your windows. Shutters are particularly effective at keeping out winter drafts and summer heat, potentially lowering your energy bills. While custom shutters can be pricey, there are more affordable, ready-made options available that you can install yourself.

## Elevate Your Home’s Curb Appeal On a Budget

First impressions matter, so here are three ways to enhance your home’s exterior on a budget.

Jenn Nawada Digging in a yard for a landscaping project.Bob O’Connor

### Improve Landscaping

A well-maintained landscape is one of the best ways to boost curb appeal. Start with simple things, like pruning overgrown shrubs, adding fresh mulch to garden beds, and planting colorful flowers near the entrance. Consider installing low-cost landscape lighting to highlight your home’s best features at night. For a cohesive look, make sure your lawn is well-manicured and consider adding a few potted plants to your porch or entryway.

### Refinish Your Home’s Wood Door

Your front door is one of the first things people notice about your home. If you have a wood door that’s seen better days, refinishing it can turn it into a focal point. Start by removing old varnish or paint, then sand the surface smooth. Apply a fresh coat of stain or paint, and finish with a protective clear coat. This project can typically be completed in a weekend and will give your home’s entrance a fresh, welcoming look.

### Get More Flowers Without Spending Any Money

Dividing perennials is an excellent way to multiply your garden’s beauty without spending a dime. Many popular perennials, like daylilies, can be divided every few years. This not only gives you more plants but also helps control their size and reinvigorate growth. The best time to divide most perennials is in late summer or early fall. This simple gardening technique can help you create a lush, colorful landscape on a budget.

## Maximize Storage and Functionality Without Breaking the Bank

Efficient storage and functional spaces make any home more comfortable, and you don’t need major renovations to achieve them.

### Create Custom Storage Areas

Adding storage doesn’t have to mean a major construction project. Look for underutilized spaces in your home, such as below the stairs or in awkward corners, and consider how you can turn them into usable storage areas. This could be as simple as adding shelves or as complex as building custom cabinets. For example, a window seat with built-in storage can provide both a comfy place to read and an area to store seasonal items.

### Install Built-In Bookshelves

Built-in bookshelves add both storage and character to a room. They’re particularly effective around a fireplace or in a home office. While custom built-ins can be expensive, there are more affordable DIY options. Consider using premade bookcases and adding trim to give them a built-in look. This project can increase your storage space and add value to your home.

### Lay Low-Cost Flooring in Laundries and Mudrooms

Utility spaces like laundry rooms and mudrooms often get overlooked, but updating their flooring can make these areas more useful and stylish. Vinyl tiles are an affordable and durable option that’s easy to install yourself. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to create a custom look.

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