- Dell Jeanty
- Aug 8
- 7 min read
Here are seven budget-friendly home renovation ideas:
Are you thinking about renovating your home on a budget? Before you begin, here are seven affordable home renovation ideas to consider.
Whether you've just purchased a new home or are planning a remodel, home renovation can feel overwhelming and expensive. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during a complete renovation is spending more money than necessary.
Renovating your home should be a marathon, not a sprint. Fortunately, there are many affordable projects that you can complete on your own or with the help of a professional.
Even minor repairs and renovations can significantly increase your home's value, allowing you to sell your house for more than you purchased it. Alternatively, these remodels might help you fall in love with your home all over again, such as a finished attic.
If you're searching for inexpensive renovations that can transform your house, you’ve come to the right place. Here are seven excellent, budget-friendly home renovations you can undertake throughout your home.
Continue reading to discover the seven most budget-friendly home renovations.
Refinishing or recoating your hardwood floors can make a significant difference in your home. Although this task may seem daunting and time-consuming, it doesn't have to be expensive. On average, the cost for professional sanding and staining ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot, according to Forbes.
If you decide to tackle this project on your own, the total cost can be between $500 and $1,000, excluding equipment and other expenses. Recoating involves adding a layer of protective varnish and is generally more affordable, costing about $1 to $2 per square foot. This option is ideal if your floors are in good condition and just need a minor upgrade.
Recoating can be beneficial if you notice some minor wear and tear in your home. You can buff out small scratches and dings yourself and then apply a coat of varnish to complete the process. Keep in mind that you may need to rent or purchase equipment, such as an orbital sander or drum sander, which typically costs around $60 per day. The price of tools can vary depending on the seller, so it's important to factor this into your decision before starting the project.
2. Painting Your Cabinets
Painting your cabinets may seem like a small project, but it can significantly enhance your home. Remodeling with professionals can be costly, making this DIY option an easy and enjoyable way to refresh your space.
The most significant expense in this project is purchasing high-quality paint. While you can save money on other supplies, investing in good paint is crucial, as it will not only last longer and look better but will also be easier to work with. One popular choice for kitchens is oil-based paint, known for its moisture and stain resistance.
Water-based paints are also durable and have a long lifespan, whereas latex paint is easy to apply and dries quickly. There are various formulas available designed for different finishes, so be sure to choose one that suits your needs.
When selecting paint, pick a color that complements your countertops, floors, appliances, and other features in the room. White is a favorite option since it can brighten any space, but many homeowners are now opting for vibrant cabinet colors to make a bold statement. Ultimately, the choice is yours—just ensure you do it right if you decide to tackle the DIY cabinet painting project!
4. Install a New Vanity
Remodeling a bathroom can be one of the most expensive home improvement projects, but the overall cost largely depends on the choices you make. If you're looking to refresh your bathroom on a budget, installing a new vanity can have a significant impact.
Today, finding a pre-made vanity set is easier than ever. Options range from double-sink vanities to floating and corner vanities, offering endless possibilities to suit your style.
The cost of vanities varies based on size, style, and the retailer you choose. You can expect to pay between $100 and $2,600 for a pre-made vanity set. While having a basic understanding of plumbing may help you assemble the vanity yourself, hiring a professional for the installation can save you time and prevent potential headaches. Although this option may be more expensive, it could be worthwhile in the long run.
5. Install a Patio
If you already have a nice outdoor space, adding a patio or outdoor decking can enhance your area for relaxation and gatherings. According to Home Guide, the cost to install a classic patio typically ranges from $5 to $35 per square foot.
For a 10x20-foot patio, the average cost can vary between $1,000 and $7,000. Keep in mind that larger patios will require more materials, leading to a higher overall price. Poured concrete is generally the most affordable material for building a patio, while natural stone tends to be the most expensive option. Other material choices include pavers, flagstone, and stamped concrete.
Building a patio can be a DIY project if you have the necessary construction knowledge and experience. However, hiring a professional will increase costs, but there may be a better option if you are unsure about your skills.
According to Home Guide, here are the average costs for patio materials.
Material | Cost per square foot installed | Average Cost Installs (20'x20') |
|---|---|---|
Poured concrete patio | $5 - $15 | $2,000 - $6,000 |
Stamped concrete patio | $8 - $19 | $3,200 - $7,600 |
Natural stone patio | $16 - $35 | $6,400 - $14,400 |
Flagstone patio | $15 - $32 | $6,000 - $12,800 |
Concrete or brick paver patio | $10 - $17 | $4,000 - $6,800 |
Pea gravel patio | $0.85 - $2.80 | $350 - $1,100 |
6. Painting
Painting the interior or exterior of your home doesn't have to be expensive. It's a project that can easily be done on your own, especially for the interior. While painting the exterior can be more costly and time-consuming, doing it yourself can save you a significant amount of money.
If you choose to paint the exterior on your own, the average cost can range from $500 to $1,000, with the primary expense being the type of paint you select. It's important to invest in high-quality paint for the best results.
If you don't want to repaint the entire house, consider updating just the trim. This option is much cheaper and requires less work, yet it can still give your home a fresh look, which is particularly beneficial if you plan to sell soon. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint in a single room can transform the space, especially if it receives a lot of natural light, making it feel brand new.
7. Modular Shelving
No matter the size of your home, everyone can benefit from additional storage space. A fantastic way to introduce personality and color to a room is by incorporating open shelving. Modular shelving is available in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it suitable for almost any space, especially in a home office.
With modular shelving, you can display books, flowers, photographs, and nearly anything else you desire. This can truly transform a space while providing extra room to store your items. Depending on where you decide to install the shelving, it can add color with open shelves or offer cubbies for accessible yet out-of-sight storage. Regardless of how you choose to utilize the extra space, it will be a valuable and cost-effective addition to your home.
Methodology
We gathered information and data from various sources, including our own findings, to provide comprehensive insights on budget-friendly home renovations. Most of the data was sourced from the following publications:
- Forbes
- FAQ: Budget-Friendly Home Renovations
**Commonly Asked Questions about Budget-Friendly Home Renovations**
1. What is the cheapest room in the house to remodel?
The least expensive rooms to remodel are those with minimal fixtures. This typically includes living rooms or bedrooms, in contrast to bathrooms or kitchens, which involve plumbing or gas connections.
2. How do you determine a budget for renovations?
To approximate a renovation budget, consider the value of your home. It's advisable not to spend more than 10 to 15 percent of your home's value on a single room, as this may not significantly increase your home's value.
3. What is the most challenging room to renovate?
The most challenging rooms to renovate are the kitchen and bathrooms. These spaces require extensive work due to electrical and plumbing issues. Additionally, the costs associated with installing new fixtures and fittings can add up quickly.
4. Which part of the house should be renovated first?
Most real estate experts recommend that the kitchen should be the first room to remodel. Although it is one of the most difficult spaces to renovate, it is considered the heart of the home.
5. How can I save costs when renovating?
To save money on renovations, consider doing your own demolition, sticking to a budget, creating a solid plan, reusing materials, painting, or sourcing your own materials. Assess how much of the remodel you can handle independently and what tasks necessitate hiring a professional.
Budget-Friendly Home Renovations: The Bottom Line
Home renovations can be extensive projects; however, you have control over the scale of your project. The most important aspect is ensuring that you are satisfied with the final result. If you own or have inherited a home that requires upgrades, knowing how to keep costs manageable can significantly impact your renovation experience.
Generally, renovating a home is less expensive than purchasing a new one. However, this is contingent upon the extent of renovations needed, your location, and various other factors. Before making any decisions, consider compiling a list of the renovations required and compare this to the existing homes in your area that meet your criteria.
While homebuyers often focus on finding the perfect house, your approach might differ if you intend to renovate. If you're looking for a new home with plans to renovate, you can afford to be less particular about finding the ideal property.
If you're considering purchasing a home in Arlington, Virginia, feel free to contact one of our knowledgeable real estate specialists who are eager to assist you in finding the perfect home. We understand that buying a home can feel overwhelming, but a real estate agent can guide you through the entire process.
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