Looking to rent out a home? You need to make the best impression in order to find a renter.
You may not have a large budget, but there are inexpensive DIY renovation projects that can make a difference without breaking the bank.
Here are 10 cheap home upgrades that will increase your home’s value.
1. Give Vinyl Siding Some TLC
If you’re looking for home renovation ideas on a budget, start with the exterior.
Is the vinyl siding on the house grimy or discolored?
Clean it up. This is one of the easiest and most dramatic ways to do an extreme home makeover.
You can rent a power washer or hire someone to do it. Another option is to take a long-handled scrub brush to the siding.
Hand washing might actually be the better option as power washing can end up damaging the siding.
2. Exterior Paint Updates
Painting the exterior of your house is a great way to give your home a complete makeover.
If you can’t swing that, there is a cost-efficient method that works almost as well.
Start with painting the front door. Sometimes a bold splash of color can do wonders in increasing curb appeal.
A bright color will make a bold contrast and really catch the eye. You might also think about painting decorative shutters.
Another cheap remodeling project is changing out the house numbers and the mailbox.
Your house will look utterly transformed in a few simple steps.
3. Kitchen Updates
If you have to renovate on a budget and you’re deciding where to concentrate your money, go with the kitchen.
It’s one of the main areas renters care about when looking at houses.
A total kitchen remodel can cost thousands. If that’s not feasible, you can still do some cost-effective upgrades.
Think about replacing old appliances with newer, more energy-efficient models. You can also replace outdated kitchen cabinets or countertops.
If that’s not possible, at least replace the hardware on the cabinets.
Or maybe you could paint the cabinets to give a quick facelift.
Another project that can do wonders is changing out your backsplash.
Peel-and-stick tiles are easy to apply and cost considerably less than other types of tile. You can cut the tiles to size yourself using ordinary tin snips.
4. Put Up Removable Wallpaper
Wallpaper often gets a bad rap, but it is an easy and inexpensive way to update a room.
The patterns available these days are modern and stylish. You can add color or patterns and instantly make a small space look bigger.
Since it is removable, the wallpaper can be taken down later.
5. Paint Jobs
Paint truly does wonders in transforming a room. It’s also something you can do yourself.
It takes some time and effort, but if done right, you will increase the value of the house.
You can paint the whole room or do an accent wall with a contrasting burst of color.
Make sure you properly prepare so you end up with the room you want.
6. Bathroom Updates
Another area of concern for renters relates to the bathrooms.
A complete renovation might not be possible, but again there are minor upgrades you can do.
Bathroom upgrade ideas:
- Replace shower doors
- Replace showerheads
- Create storage shelves
- Paint cabinet doors
- Replace hardware on cabinet doors
- Use peel-and-stick tiles as contrast points on the walls
- Update sink fixtures
These simple fixes with make your bathrooms shine.
7. Don’t Forget the Floors
Know what often gets forgotten among cheap DIY home projects? The floors.
You can (and should) replace old carpet or flooring, especially if it’s damaged, worn or stained.
Though you might spend money, you will get a higher return on investment (ROI).
You can find vinyl flooring and low-grade carpet that will work just fine. Another cost-saving option could be durable floor paint or peel-and-stick tiles.
8. Master Bedroom Upgrades
The master bedroom always garners attention from renters and buyers so concentrate your money here.
You can transform flat ceilings into a raised tray ceiling and add or upgrade lighting options.
If that kind of project is not possible, there are smaller steps you can take.
Painting the walls (or one contrast wall), adding recessed dimmers, and putting up lighting wall sconces and new overhead lighting can change the whole ambiance of a master bedroom.
9. Master Closet Upgrades
If you’re upgrading the master bedroom, don’t forget the master closets.
Renters want to know there will be room for their clothes.
You may not be able to change the size of the closet, but you can add pre-made or custom built-ins for storing and hanging clothes.
10. Window Treatments
Don’t forget window treatments. This may be one of the easiest ways to enhance the look of a room.
Replace old, damaged or faded curtains, window shades, and hanging rods.
You can go to any home goods or home improvement store and find everything you need.
It’s not necessary to buy the most expensive materials, either. You can find attractive options that will still transform a room and give it a new life.
If you are a property management specialist, be sure to look for more resources and information.
Get Your Home Ready to Rent with These Cheap Home Upgrades
It is possible to perform an extreme makeover on your home without breaking the bank.
With some minor changes, you can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential renters or buyers.
Cheap home upgrades like these will help you get started.
Knock Off Décor is the destination to find tips for your next DIY project.
Be inspired by looks from some of the most popular brands like West Elm, Restoration Hardware, Anthropologie, and Pottery Barn.
We also offer remodeling and home improvement advice for every room in the house, from kitchens and bedrooms to bathrooms and outdoor spaces.