There’s no way to sugar-coat it: living in Australia is expensive. Whether you’re paying rent or a mortgage, the high cost of living can make it tough to keep up with your finances, let alone put any money aside for home improvement projects.
But there’s only so much our homes can take before they show their age. Your roof might leak, your windows might be drafty, or your walls might need a fresh coat of paint.
But don’t despair if you’re starting to feel like your home requires a makeover but don’t have the budget for a major renovation. We have some smart, budget-friendly ideas to help you breathe new life into your home without breaking the bank.
1. Make a Plan Before You Start:
No matter the project’s scope, pulling off a home renovation without a hitch isn’t a small feat. So, before you start, it’s essential to have a clear plan. It means setting a budget and knowing exactly what you want to achieve.
The material choice and time frame are just some things you must consider before starting any home improvement project.
Your plan must also include a list of professionals you might have to hire. For instance, before replacing your flooring or painting your walls, you’ll have to move your furniture out of the way. It is when you’ll want to call in furniture movers for a smooth, damage-free transition.
You must also factor in the costs that usually fall on hindsight, such as repairs, which can quickly inflate the project’s total cost.
Once you have the digits, you can look for ways to cut corners without compromising on the result.
Here are some practical ways:
- Get multiple quotes from various vendors
- Compare the costs of different products before settling on one
- Don’t forget to ask for discounts
2. Update Your Flooring:
The prominent elements in your home have the most significant impact on its overall look and feel. So, if your floors look worn out, it’s time to pay attention. The signs that signify it’s time for new flooring can be subtle, like a dull finish or minor scratches. More obvious signs include deep gouges, cracks, or holes.
If you have hardwood floors, you might be tempted to refinish them. But depending on the condition of your floors, this might not be an option. If your floors are in bad shape, it’s best to start from scratch with new flooring.
The good news is that plenty of attractive, budget-friendly flooring options are available. If you’re looking for something luxurious, consider laminate or engineered wood.
For a more natural look, bamboo or cork flooring are great options. And if you’re on a tight budget, vinyl plank flooring is an excellent choice. It’s durable, easy to install, and comes in various styles to suit any home.
3. Paint Your Walls:
One quickest and most transformative ways to refresh your home is to paint your walls. A fresh layer of paint can brighten a space, make it feel larger, and add personality. And the best part is that it’s a relatively inexpensive project you can do yourself.
When choosing paint colors, you must consider the ambiance you want to create in your home. If you want a cheerful space and light, opt for brighter colors. Yellow is a color that instantly makes a room feel more joyous. If you want to create a feeling of calm and relaxation, choose softer, cooler colors.
Since a professional may cost you $4000 for a small apartment, you can try doing it yourself. You’ll just need the right tools.
4. Upcycle Old Furniture:
Regular use will inevitably take its toll on your furniture. Torn upholstery, scratches, and stains are all common problems. But instead of getting rid of your old furniture, why not upcycle it?
Upcycling is an intelligent way to give your furniture a new lease on life. It’s also a budget-friendly way to get the look you want without buying new furniture.
There are a few ways you can upcycle your old furniture. If you have a table that’s looking a little worse for wear, you can sand it down and refinish it. It will get rid of scratches and stains.
Similarly, replacing cabinet hardware is an easy and inexpensive way to update your furniture. And if you’re feeling creative, you can even upholster your furniture. You’ll need a staple gun and some fabric.
5. Renovate Your Kitchen:
A lot of activity happens in your kitchen. Oil spills on the counter and crumbs on the floor all contribute to a kitchen that needs a makeover. Couple that with outdated appliances, and you have a recipe for a renovation.
The good news is that kitchen renovation is a common home improvement project. So, you’ll find plenty of resources and materials to help you through the process. Start with the cabinets if you’re looking for easy and budget-friendly ways to update your kitchen. You can either paint them or replace the hardware.
Swapping out old appliances is another great way to give your kitchen a new look. Marble and granite are popular choices, but there are also budget-friendly options like laminate. And if you’re feeling ambitious, you can even install new countertops.
6. Upgrade Your Bathroom:
We often neglect our bathrooms unless the seepage and mold become visible. And once these issues surface, you could have a structural problem on your hands. It will cost you a fortune to fix. So, let’s update well in time.
Consider the functionality of your bathroom when planning a renovation. You may consider making changes to maximize space if you have a small bathroom. For example, you can install a pedestal sink or floating shelves. You can also update your bathroom with new fixtures and hardware. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even tile your shower or floor.
Conclusion:
The most troublesome part of renovating a home is finalizing the designs and color scheme. You are scared of making the wrong choices and regretting them later. However, if you stick to the rule that your house reflects your personality, it’ll be easier to make your pick.
The family of greys will be an excellent choice for your home if you prefer neat lines and subtle colors. On the other hand, if you want something cozier and brighter, opt for vibrant colors.
Another helpful tip is to incorporate multifunctional furniture in your home to save space. We hope that with these tips and ideas, you’ll be able to flip your home without breaking the bank.
