Budget-Friendly Tips on How to Improve Your Home

by Alison Hamilton on June 28, 2016 from Quicken Loans

Improving and redecorating your house may seem like a lot of work that just leaves your wallet empty. But with a little effort and a mind for saving a few bucks, there are plenty of home improvement projects (including some that are even tax-deductible) that can spruce up your space – and you can start working on them today.




Install a Removable Backsplash

Installing a new backsplash may sound time-consuming, but according to the DIY Network, it can often be done quickly and taken down just as easily. If you’re not feeling your current backsplash, why not install a chalkboard backsplash? Installing a backsplash is a perfect project for those who enjoy change. For example, you can easily switch to a pegboard backsplash to have nifty storage space for your kitchen utensils. And whenever you’re feeling like a décor makeover, you can simply take down the backsplash and replace it with another style that suits your fancy.

Use Mason Jars in a New Way

If you’re running out of space to store the miscellaneous items throughout your kitchen and other knick-knacks, how about a cheap twist on a classic way to store your stuff? Use empty mason jars or baby food jars to create some homespun storage by hanging the jars on the underside of a shelf. You can hang your mason jars in your bedroom, garage or kitchen – or anywhere you need extra storage space! With the simple turn of an electric screwdriver, you have a convenient storage solution that also looks artsy.

Add a Creative Flare to Your Headboard

If you’re looking to make your bedroom more luxurious, vintage, happy or alternative, try throwing a quick and easy headboard up on your bed. If you’re looking for an antique style, use an old closet door that’s been sitting around – just turn it sideways and mount it on the wall. Or to display a more expensive look, hang paintable wallpaper along with a wall décor piece behind your bed. To get a stately and creative headboard style without the high cost, HGTV offers up budget-friendly headboards that spruce up your bedroom and match your bedroom to your personality.

Use Gel Stain to Update Your Garage Door

The outside appearance of your home is just as important as the inside décor. Over time, the paint on your garage door can start to peel and age your house. Instead of spending a lot of money on a can of paint, you can follow Domestically Speaking’s advice and purchase a quart of gel stain. A gallon of high quality exterior paint can cost around $40. And that’s not including paint brushes! But you can avoid buying pricey paint and renew your garage door by purchasing a quart of gel stain with brushes, all for under $20.

So the next time you want to update your old home, remember: You’re not the only one in the world with good taste and a tight budget. There’s a world of quick DIY projects out there just waiting to be tackled. And to avoid breaking the bank and getting overwhelmed, keep in mind your goals and budget, the cost of materials and the labor involved.