Updates for Big and Not so Big Budgets

Maybe you're thinking about selling your home, or perhaps it's just time to make some upgrades. In either situation, there are certain home improvements that you should definitely consider. In the past, if budget constraints have prevented you from moving forward, then a little creative thinking might be all it takes to mold renovation into something you can easily afford.

Below are lists of $$$ - Big Budget (but oh, so worth it) projects and their corresponding $ - Lower Budget (easier on the pocket book until you're ready) counterparts:

$$$ - Overhaul your closet with a new closet organizer. If you're going to include drawers, the white melamine is the cheapest and the price goes up as you add real wood or wood look finishes.

$ - Add a lower bar to your closet to expand your hanging space for tops and bottoms. You may need to raise the upper bar to accommodate the new design.

$$$ - Update that 20 year old kitchen. If your kitchen cupboards are good quality, but dated, you may want to consider refacing them and having the doors replaced. The counter tops could also re-laminated. Add a modern sink and faucets, and you'll have a brand new kitchen.

$ - Good quality cupboards can be made to look like new by painting them and replacing the hardware with a more updated style. Consider removing the inserts in some and replacing with glass. Add a new sink and modern faucets to complete the look.

$$$ - Modernize your light fixtures by replacing them with current styles. If you have a breakfast bar, consider adding track or pendant lighting for extra light.

$ - Improve your home's lighting by adding fixtures to dim areas in need of a boost. Good places to start are dark closets, reading areas, and accents over fireplaces or artwork Replace your old switch plates with decor covers.

$$$ - Add crown molding to add character to your ceilings and decorative trim over all your doors.

$ - At the very least re-paint all the trim an doors in your house and and repair any damaged pieces.

$$$ - Overhaul your fireplace by adding a cost-efficient insert with a slate or stone border. Replace the mantle with a large wood beam.

$ - At the very least boost the appeal of your fireplace by painting it or adding a decorative border. Clean off your mantle and start fresh by enhancing it with eye-catching accents on either side of an attractive framed mirror.

$$$ - If your curtains have seen better days, replace with new corresponding shades or blinds. Add new accent curtains and valances for added warmth and style.

$ - Replace any worn or really outdated window coverings. Give the rest a good wash and re-hang.

$$$ - It's all about curb appeal, and nothing say's "notice me" like a grand front entrance with a new modern door and hardware.

$ - Paint the front door and replace hardware.

$$$ - Re-vamp your walkway by replacing your broken concrete sidewalk with interlocking brick or slate. Replace the wooden steps leading to your porch with the same material.

$ - Pour pea gravel or cedar bark on your walkway and insert round stepping stones. If you have an old concrete porch, consider refacing it with low cost porcelain tiles.

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