12 Most-Bang-for-Your-Buck Home Improvement Projects
Updated: Feb. 03, 2023Home improvement projects don't always have to have big-budget price tags. If you're looking to sell or just want to make your home more comfortable, there are several updates you can do, big and small. Here are 12 of the most bang-for-your-buck home improvement projects.
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Add Paint
Choose a paint color and give a room a fresh look. Be sure to choose a high-quality paint, which will cost you $30 to $60 a gallon, but is totally worth it. While you have the painting supplies out, brighten trim with a light-colored, high-gloss paint.
Give the Kitchen a Simple Update
You don’t have to go big when it comes to kitchen projects. Install new kitchen cabinets or give current cabinets a refresh. Upgrade old kitchen countertops and add a kitchen backsplash for a new look.
Update the Bathroom
When it comes to projects with a great return when you sell your home, look no further than a minor bathroom remodel. Give your bathroom vanity a makeover, replace the toilet and faucet if needed, update the showerhead for a better shower experience and re-caulk the bathroom tub.
Upgrade Flooring
If the carpet in your living room is looking worn, remove it and install hardwood flooring. Quality hardwood flooring can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot and you can save some money by installing it yourself. Try tile in the mudroom and give bedroom carpet a good cleaning.
Finish the Attic
If you have an accessible attic that is unfinished, try turning it into a bedroom or an awesome man cave. If the attic is connected through a stairway and has a ceiling height of at least 7 feet, it is one way to add livable space to your home without breaking the bank.
Improve the Landscape
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to outdoor projects, here are simple landscaping ideas. Build a wooden planter box to add some color to the front of your home, plant some strikingly colorful shrubs and add some bee-friendly plants to your yard.
Replace Windows
When it comes to home improvement projects, window replacement will help your home’s energy efficiency throughout the year. In addition, if you live in a colder climate, you’ll recoup nearly all your costs when it’s time to sell your home.
Update Your Decor
Take a good look around—could some of your fixtures use an update? Hang a new light fixture, replace electrical outlets and covers, install crown molding for a classic look and upgrade any outdated window treatments.
Make Exterior Improvements
One of the easiest projects you can do is paint your front door. Also, replace vinyl siding that is cracked or broken, paint exterior trim and window shutters and fix any sidewalks that are chipped or pitted.
Add a Deck or Patio
Build a deck with these modern deck building tips and shortcuts or build a stone or brick patio quick and easy. A DIY fire pit will give you a great place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
Add Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting projects don’t have to be complicated. Try some solar lights along a path or add some smart security lights.
Remodel the Basement
Consider finishing the basement (if it’s not already), or you can always go with remodeling your basement entirely which will add living space. If your basement is finished, build a DIY bar!