On a Budget? 8 Cheap Home Improvements That Add Value

Life’s daily wear and tear shouldn't mean having to compromise on comfort and aesthetics. That's why we're dedicated to offering you practical, budget-friendly solutions that can make a big difference in your home.

8 Cheap Home Improvement Projects

Whether you're sprucing up for comfort, efficiency, or a bit of both, we believe everyone deserves a space that feels like home without stretching their finances too thin.

We’ll take you step-by-step through these cheap DIY home improvements. Because at Frontdoor, we're not just about providing solutions; we're about supporting your journey to a happier, more comfortable place to live.

1. Painting Interior Walls and Cabinets

Revamping your home's look can be as straightforward as applying a new coat of paint. And when it’s time to resell, an interior paint job is one of the top-return-on-investment projects you can undertake, according to the National Association of Realtors.

Whether you’re brightening up living spaces with fresh wall colors or giving your kitchen cabinets a modern facelift, painting is a simple project that can have a big impact on your home’s look and feel.

Quick Tip: If you’re stuck on which color to choose, buyer’s might pay more for moody hues. Zillow's paint color analysis finds that charcoal gray rooms can help a home sell for as much as $2,512 more.

Here are some tips for painting on a budget:

• Choose Economical Paint: Opt for paint that offers good coverage and longevity without breaking the bank. Sometimes, paint-primer combinations can save time and money by covering surfaces in fewer coats.
• Do the Prep Work Yourself: Prepare surfaces by cleaning, sanding, and applying primer (if needed). This ensures a smoother finish and better adhesion, reducing the need for multiple coats of paint.
• Use Professional Techniques: Apply painter's tape for clean edges, use rollers for large surfaces, and brushes for detail work. Proper painting techniques can save paint and time, reducing the overall cost.
• Buy Supplies Wisely: Calculate the amount of paint you'll need before buying to avoid excess. Mixing slight paint remnants for a base coat on a less visible wall can also save costs on your painting project.

And remember, if you ever feel stuck or need some expert guidance, Frontdoor's How-to Tips and video chat option are just a few taps away to help you navigate your home improvements.

2. Updating Fixtures and Hardware

Transform areas like your kitchen, bathroom, or living room by swapping out old, worn-out fixtures such as light fittings, sink taps, and doorknobs. Letting these small details go untouched can date your space or detract from its overall appeal. According to the National Association of Realtors, many interior home projects are motivated by homeowners seeking to upgrade worn-out surfaces, finishes, and materials. The added benefit? You’ll likely feel happier in your home once you complete the project!

When selecting new fixtures and hardware, consider the finish that best suits your space. Options like brushed nickel, aged bronze, or matte black can add a touch of elegance and cohesiveness to your interiors. Remember, consistency is key—matching these finishes across different elements can really tie a room together.

Here are some budget-friendly tips for updating your fixtures and hardware:

• DIY Installation: Save on installation costs by tackling this project yourself. Many fixtures and hardware are designed for easy, straightforward installation, making this an ideal task for those who DIY.
• Re-purpose or Refinish: Before buying new, consider whether you can refurbish your current fixtures and hardware. A new coat of paint or a different finish can work wonders.
• Buy in Bulk: If multiple items need replacing, look for bulk deals or packages to save money.

3. Create Custom Shelving

Maximize storage and display space in your home by creating custom shelving using inexpensive materials like reclaimed wood, plywood, or even industrial piping. Custom shelving allows you to tailor the design and dimensions to fit your space perfectly while adding a unique and personalized touch to your home decor. DIY shelving projects are relatively simple and cost-effective, requiring only basic tools and materials. Whether you're looking to organize your pantry, display your book collection, or showcase decorative items, custom shelving offers countless possibilities for enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. And if you need some extra help or advice, you can always reach out to one of Frontdoor’s handyperson Experts over video chat.

4. Revitalize Flooring with Area Rugs

Refresh the look of your floors without the expense and hassle of replacing them entirely by strategically placing area rugs. Area rugs come in various sizes, styles, and price points, allowing you to find the perfect match for any room in your home. Not only do they add warmth and comfort underfoot, but they also serve as focal points and can tie together the overall aesthetic of your space. Look for deals at local stores or online retailers, and don't shy away from mixing and matching different patterns and textures to create a unique and inviting atmosphere.

5. Create a Gallery Wall

Add personality and visual interest to your home by creating a gallery wall with framed artwork, photographs, or even decorative mirrors. This project allows you to showcase your personality and style while breathing new life into blank walls. Hunt for affordable frames at thrift stores, discount retailers, or online marketplaces, and consider printing your own artwork or photographs for a budget-friendly alternative to expensive artwork. Experiment with different layouts and arrangements before committing to ensure a balanced and visually appealing result.

6. Adding or Updating Backsplash in a Kitchen or Bathroom

An updated backsplash can dramatically shift the style and mood of your space at minimal expense—making it an ideal home improvement project on a budget.

Selecting the right materials and design are key. Modern peel-and-stick tiles offer an affordable and user-friendly option, available in various colors, patterns, and textures. This diversity allows you to tailor your space to fit your unique style—whether that's sleek and modern, warm and rustic, or bright and colorful.

Look for sales or clearance items at hardware stores or online. Last season's styles can still look fresh while saving you money.

7. Enhance Lighting

Enhancing the lighting in your home can transform the atmosphere and functionality of your spaces, making it another impactful yet cheap DIY home improvement project. Installing proper lighting can make rooms feel larger, more welcoming, and more comfortable, all while highlighting your home’s best features.

Here are some budget-friendly tips for enhancing your home’s lighting:

• 1

  Utilize LED Bulbs

  Switch to LED bulbs for longer-lasting, more energy-efficient light. They come in various hues to set the right mood for each room.

• 2

  Install Dimmer Switches

  Adding dimmers allows you to adjust the brightness in a room, setting the perfect ambiance while saving energy.

• 3

  Repurpose and Upcycle

  Transform old objects into unique light fixtures for a personalized touch that doesn’t break the bank.

Remember, good lighting not only improves visibility but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your space. And you can always video chat a Frontdoor electrical Expert if you need help installing updated lighting.

8. Upgrade the Entryway

The entryway is more than just a passageway into your home; it's the first glimpse guests get and the first space you encounter when you come home. Upgrading this area can boost your home's curb appeal and functionality without spending a lot, making it another ideal project for home improvement on a budget. When comparing 2023 national averages of home upgrades, an entry door replacement recouped 100% of its cost, according to Remodeling by JLC.

Start by assessing the current state of your entryway and consider what changes would make the most significant impact. It could be as simple as a fresh coat of paint on the door, new hardware, or even a stylish welcome mat. With a few well-chosen updates, you can create a welcoming entrance that reflects your style and adds value to your home.

Start Transforming Your Space

When working on renovating your house, there are some lower effort, high payout tasks you can tackle: 

• A big impact on how a home looks, feels, and sells is the paint. Interior paint jobs are known to be a great return on investment. 
• Next, look to update fixtures and hardware. Swapping out old light fittings, sink taps, doorknobs and other accessories can go a long way to make a home look great.
• Need storage? Consider custom shelving made out of reclaimed wood or industrial piping to add functionality and aesthetics to a room.

Home Improvement Help from Our Experts

Remember, the journey to a more appealing and functional home starts with small steps, and at Frontdoor, we're here to support you every step of the way. So, take these ideas, mold them to fit your style, and start transforming your space. And remember, if you ever need advice, guidance, or just a bit of encouragement, Frontdoor's network of Experts is just a video chat away.