If the January blues are hitting hard this year, now’s the perfect time to shake them off by diving into a crafty, attention-grabbing project – especially one that will enhance your home’s look, feel, and value.
But if you’re feeling the pinch after the festive season, fear not – you don’t need a big budget to make a big impact. With some smart planning, basic tools, and a few spare weekends, you can take on a range of budget-friendly DIY projects that will breathe new life into your home and add a touch of personality, all while boosting its overall value.
So, here’s 10 practical and affordable home DIY projects that are simple to tackle, easy on the wallet, and guaranteed to make a lasting impression.
1. Cut Price Cupboards: Transform Your Kitchen Cabinets
Updating your kitchen can be expensive, but transforming your cabinets can give it a fresh, modern look. Potential buyers often look for a stylish and updated kitchen, making this an investment in your home’s marketability (not to mention your present-day comfort!) for a fraction of the price.
- How to Do It – Remove the cabinet doors and hardware, clean the surfaces thoroughly, and sand them lightly. Apply a primer before painting with a durable cabinet paint in a trendy colour, such as sage green or navy blue. Replace old knobs or handles with modern ones.
- How Much Will It Cost? – Around £50-£250 for paint, primer, and new hardware (depending on the size of your kitchen).
- Why It Adds Value – Kitchens are a focal point for buyers. Fresh cabinets make the space feel new and well-maintained, increasing appeal.
2. Bright Ideas on a Budget: Install New Lighting Fixtures
Lighting can dramatically impact a home’s ambience. Replacing outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options can elevate the look of any room, creating a more inviting, contemporary feel that appeals to buyers – and sets the mood while you’re watching your Saturday night stories.
- How to Do It – Turn off the power at the circuit breaker before removing the old fixture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new one, ensuring the wiring is correctly connected. You may need a screwdriver, wire strippers, and a step ladder. No pro? Hire an electrician and put the kettle on while they get to work.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £40-£120, depending on the fixture.
- Why It Adds Value – Stylish lighting enhances a home’s overall aesthetic and functionality, making it more attractive to potential buyers and a nicer environment for you.
3. Brush Up on Bargains: Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
A simple coat of paint can work wonders in refreshing your home’s interior and exterior. Not only can you brighten up a tired, old space for just a few quid, but choosing the right colours can make a significant difference when potential buyers come to browse – helping them imagine their lives there with ease and (hopefully) getting you a quicker sale when the time comes.
- How to Do It – Choose neutral or trending colours like soft greys or warm whites to appeal to a wide audience. Use painter’s tape for clean edges, and apply at least two coats for even coverage.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £20-£50 per room for paint and supplies.
- Why It Adds Value – A fresh coat of paint makes a home feel clean and well-maintained.
4. Splish, Splash, Cash: Refresh Bathroom Fixtures
Bathrooms are another key area where small updates can make a big difference. Replacing old-fashioned, rusty, or poorly fitting fixtures can make your bathroom feel like it’s had a makeover for a fraction of the price. Plus, it can signal to buyers that your home is well cared for and high-value– a win-win.
- How to Do It – Replace dated taps, showerheads, or towel rails with sleek, modern designs. For an added touch, consider regrouting tiles or adding peel-and-stick tile decals.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £30-£100, depending on the fixtures and materials.
- Why It Adds Value – Modern fixtures give the bathroom a polished look, making it feel more luxurious without the cost of a complete renovation.
5. Create Kerb Appeal for a Steal
First impressions matter, and improving your home’s exterior can increase its value and attract attention. A well-maintained and inviting exterior sets the tone for what’s inside, leaving a positive impression on visitors and potential buyers alike.
- How to Do It – Paint your front door in a bold yet tasteful colour, such as deep red or navy blue. Add potted plants, replace old house numbers, and power wash the driveway or pathways for a cleaner look.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £50-£150, depending on materials and tools.
- Why It Adds Value – A welcoming exterior makes your home stand out and signals that it’s well cared for.
6. Step Savings: Upgrade Flooring
Flooring can define a space’s overall feel. While many people believe updating flooring is an expensive renovation, flexing those DIY muscles can help cut the costs. Plus, a modern, well-maintained floor instantly upgrades the look and value of your home, making it more appealing to prospective buyers.
- How to Do It – Use peel-and-stick vinyl flooring to update outdated or worn floors. These are easy to install and come in a variety of styles, from wood-look planks to patterned tiles.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £20-£60 per square metre.
- Why It Adds Value – Modern flooring makes a space look contemporary and clean, which can significantly impact buyer perceptions.
7. Thrifty & Sturdy: Build Custom Shelving
Custom shelves are a functional and stylish addition to any home. They make spaces feel more organised while providing opportunities to showcase personal touches like books or decor. If your space is feeling a tad cluttered, this is a great DIY project to bring some order back to your home.
- How to Do It – Measure your space and cut wood to size. Sand and stain or paint the wood before mounting it with brackets. For a more industrial look, use metal pipes as supports.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £30-£75, depending on materials.
- Why It Adds Value – Shelving adds storage and visual interest, particularly in living rooms, kitchens, or small spaces.
8. Install a Backsplash for Less Cash
A kitchen backsplash can instantly elevate the space. It’s a stylish yet functional addition that protects walls from spills and gives the kitchen a more polished look. And, it’s typically less expensive than it sounds.
- How to Do It – Use peel-and-stick tiles for a budget-friendly option. Measure the area, cut tiles to fit, and press them firmly onto a clean surface. For a traditional backsplash, you’ll need grout, tile adhesive, and a tile cutter.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £25-£100, depending on the material.
- Why It Adds Value – A backsplash protects walls from spills and adds a stylish touch that buyers love.
9. A Pane for Pennies: Frame Your Windows
Well-dressed windows can make a room feel finished and elegant. This simple update can also enhance privacy and insulation, adding both practical and aesthetic value to your home.
- How to Do It – Install curtain rods and add floor-length curtains or blinds that complement your decor. If your budget allows, consider wooden shutters for a high-end look.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £50-£120 per window.
- Why It Adds Value – Window treatments enhance privacy and aesthetics, creating a more inviting atmosphere.
10. Organised & Economised: Decluttering
Sometimes the most impactful changes are the simplest. Decluttering your home and adding smart storage solutions can make your space more functional and appealing. An organised home feels larger and more welcoming, bringing you more joy and appealing to buyers in the future.
- How to Do It – Sort items into keep, donate, and discard piles. Use decorative baskets, custom shelving, or pegboards to organise what remains. Consider labelling storage boxes for ease of use.
- How Much Will It Cost? – £20-£50 for storage supplies.
- Why It Adds Value – A decluttered, organised home feels more spacious and inviting, which buyers will appreciate.
Final Thoughts
Home DIY projects don’t have to cost a fortune to make a big impact. From painting and shelving to updating fixtures and flooring, there are plenty of ways to improve your home’s look and value on a budget. With these practical and engaging ideas, you’ll not only enhance your living space but also create an inviting home that’s ready to impress.
It’s time to roll up your sleeves and start your next DIY project!
Discover Speedy Selling at the Price You Want with MOV8
Today’s market is fast-paced and competitive, so having the right team behind you is vital for selling your home quickly at the price you want. At MOV8, our team specialises in all areas of the selling journey, from valuations to digital marketing, negotiating and comprehensive conveyancing. We’re behind you every step of the way.
Get started today by filling out our free online valuation form. Want to speak to one of our friendly team? Call us on 0345 646 0208 or email [email protected] for sales or [email protected] for buying. Let’s start building your home’s future together.
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