Tips for Quick and Easy Home Improvements

We have all seen the home improvement TV shows where the bathroom or kitchen gets an easy update in an hour or less, but when we try to do that in our own home, somehow a whole weekend goes by and we aren’t even halfway done. Well, here are few things that can change the look and feel of your home without breaking the bank or taking all weekend. From a color update to spending some time in the yard, these tips are sure to help you love your home more and potentially increase its value.

Paint Can Do Wonders

Not much else can change the look of your living room or bathroom more than a fresh coat of paint! Whether you’re adding a pop of color with an accent wall or cleaning things up with a nice neutral gray or off-white in the entire room, a coat of paint dramatically changes the look of any room with little financial investment.

Take is a step further and give the kitchen a quick refresh by painting those old oak cabinets and replacing the hardware. You’ll feel like you’re in a different home!

Landscaping Adds Curb Appeal

On a warm sunny day, take a trip to the hardware store and pick out a few plants, flowers, or a tree to add to your yard. Whether you’re selling or not, be sure to think of the environment, and select plants that are easy to care for and maintain. Not only will you be adding to your home’s appearance, but low maintenance plants mean less water and more savings on your utility bill.

Replace Old Worn Out Faucets

Aside from your washing machine, the kitchen faucet may be one of the hardest working items in your home. By keeping your hands clean, washing dishes, or rinsing off food before you prepare it, the kitchen faucet deserves an update from time-to-time. Keep things green too by choosing a faucet with an aerator to reduce water usage as much as 30% and lowering your water bill!

Clean Carpets and Rugs

Dirty carpets can be trapping allergens and pollutants such as mold, pet hair, dust, and dirt. If you are finding yourself with constant or frequent allergy symptoms, your carpet could be the culprit holding in bacteria and dust mites. Improve the quality of the air in your home by renting an industrial cleaner or hiring a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning company. The results will leave you in awe by their appearance, and how much better you can breathe.

Update Lighting Fixtures Inside and Out

Whether you install new fixtures or paint them, a small facelift can go a long way! Ditch the frosted glass look for modern clear glass that will improve the look of your home and add value. Anything from replacing the hallway fixture, the dining room chandelier, to the front porch light can make all the difference.

As you can see, even the smallest home improvements can make an impact in looks and value. Whether you’re improving to enjoy or improving to sell, it’s always a good idea to choose projects that make your home more appealing and efficient.

Are you considering updates in the next 12 months? Look at this handy Cost vs. Value tool to see if the projects you have in mind will add value to your home. Of course, if you are looking for a bigger renovation like a new kitchen, redoing the bathrooms, or adding on a room, we have renovation loans available to help finance the update of your dreams!