7 cheapest home upgrade ideas

Hiring a builder for a renovation often seems out of reach with other priorities constantly appearing. But, this doesn’t have to be the case. Below, we’ve compiled our top ten cheapest house renovation ideas to give you inspiration no matter what you’re working with.

Article Summary

• Upgrade your entrances
• The kids’ rooms
• Add wallpaper
• Change your accessories
• Add some art
• Bathroom makeover
• Landscaping

1. Upgrade Your Entrances

Most people don't realise the impact their home’s entrance makes. Your front door is the first thing your guests see on arrival. so it's the basic starting point for your home renovation, and surprisingly it won't cost you a fortune either. Approximate costs include:

• Primer: $30
• Paint: $50
• Doorknocker: $30–$120

A new paint job here can make a world of difference without draining your wallet, and you've now begun your renovation with a simple DIY. 

Garage doors are significantly sized, so people tend to notice the difference between a well-kept one and one that is needs maintenance. It would cost you around $250 to revamp the look of your garage door, so with that and your front door a decent part of your home-front is already remodelled for under $500.   

2. The Kids’ Rooms

An average kids room isn't that big, and while you may be tempted to repaint it yourself, a painter’s quote may be around $350 not including paint. This will ensure that the job is done thoroughly without making a mess, and saves you from having to do a big clean-up afterwards.

3. Add Wallpaper

Wallpaper is currently trending, and can be an inexpensive upgrade offering many options. Choose a smaller wall to transform into a feature wall, which can be done by yourself with adhesive wallpaper. If you like the way it looks, you can also continue adding it to the other walls.

So, if you're tight on a budget but need a creative escape to renovate your house, designer wallpapers are the way to go. 

4. Change Your Accessories

For a satisfying change, you can replace your old decor with all new items for a refreshed appearance. This can include curtains, rugs, quilts, and pillowcases. A new rug could start off at around $100, then add $150 for some new bed linen. A textile revamp to the rooms will help change the entire vibe and aesthetic of the room. 

Another thing to consider is the window furnishings. Windows can make the difference; a complementing colour with your front and garage door on the windowsills can be a great addition! Just get all your windows repainted and get matching curtains or blinds. 

5. Add Some Art

Browse online for some artistic accessories, such as paintings, prints, vases, picture frames, and a few artisan ornaments for the living room and bedroom that won't make a dent in your wallet. This is something that can be done gradually over time, or all at once, depending on your budget.

6. Bathroom Makeover

Interior renovations aren’t complete without a bathroom makeover! Your tiles might be looking dull, and the cabinets might be in need of some new handles. So, go to your nearest hardware store to get inspired. 

If you are looking to make some serious changes, such as adding a new showerhead or replacing your current bathtub, it’s better to get help from your local builder. Find out here how much it costs to hire a builder. 

7. Landscaping

Some plant trimming, new flower pots, and a few rows of fairy lights can make a world of difference with minimum spend. These outdoor enhancements will help you improve the appearance of your backyard or patio, and inspire a space that you’ll be excited to entertain in.

Further Reading

• Best House Renovation Ideas for 2022
• How to Reduce Your Plumbing Expenses
• 5 Space-Saving Kitchen Renovation Ideas