Improvements- Update without Breaking the Bank

Before dipping into the home improvement pool , I would like to warn you that over-improving can be costly and you may never see the return.  Even if you are not thinking of selling in the near future, it is still a good idea to consider the financial investment you are making and whether or not you will  reap the benefits.  There are plenty of things you can do to update and upgrade your home without spending a fortune.  On a daily basis I see simple upgrades that have an impact on the for-seen value of a home. Here are a few that stand out:
 
The Kitchen-

For a few hundred dollars, you can replace the kitchen faucet set, add new cabinet door handles and update old lighting fixtures with brighter, more energy-efficient ones. If you have a slightly larger budget, you can give the cabinets themselves a makeover. Rather than completely replacing cabinets, look into re-facing the ones you have. If your kitchen appliances don't match, try ordering new doors or face panels from the manufacturer. Many dishwasher panels are white on one side and black on the other. It can be as simple as removing a couple of screws, sliding the panel out and flipping it over.

 

Bathrooms-

Next to the kitchen, bathrooms are often the most important rooms to update. They, too, can be improved without a lot of cash. Simple things like a new toilet seat and a pedestal sink are pretty easy for homeowners to install, and they make a big difference.

 

Paint-

New paint makes everything look clean and bright again. And don't forget the ceiling. Paint the trim a contrasting color. Another option: Paint a wall three different shades of the same color. Measure equal sections and use painter's masking tape to mark off each area. Do the bottom of the wall first with the darkest shade. Once it dries, do the middle section with the next lightest shade and so on.

 

Carpeting-

Carpeting is another detail that can quickly update a home and make it look cleaner. A professional carpet cleaning is an inexpensive investment, especially if your rugs are in good shape and are neutral colors. If your carpet is showing serious wear, however, you may want to consider replacing it if it is in the budget.

Entryway-

The entryway is first thing you, and your guests, will see. Repaint or refinish that front door. If you have a basic steel front door that has gotten dented, consider replacing it with either another inexpensive steel door or a fiberglass, wood grain door for a slightly higher cost. Next, replace that worn, flimsy little knob on your main entry door with a more substantial-looking handle-and-lock set.

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