Design ideas on any budget
Renovating or uplifting your property with a facelift is a lot of fun and highly profitable when done right. To successfully update your property and make a profit carefully consider the impact and budget each time you choose an element of your home to update. If there is little margin for return then keep it simple and modernise with finishes and fixtures. If there is a generous margin by larger renovation, changing layouts, and adding a bathroom, bedroom, or living room then be sure you make sure to set a limit to your budget. Don't get stuck in the sunk cost fallacy.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Repaint the exterior: One of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to give your house a facelift is to repaint the exterior. Choose a color that complements your home's architectural style and the surrounding environment.
Update the landscaping: Well-manicured lawns, and well-placed gardens or planters can go a long way in improving your home's street appeal. Consider adding outdoor lighting or updating existing fixtures to highlight your home's best features.
Replace the front door: A new front door can instantly give your home a fresh look on any budget. Choose a style that complements your home's exterior use of materials or paint it a bold color to make a statement.
Add a porch or deck: A porch or deck can give your home a whole new look and provide a space for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. This addition will add value to your property increasing desirability when marketing for sale.
Update the roof: A fresh coat of paint or a professional roof clean can make a dramatic change to your home's facade and is relatively inexpensive. Alternatively, the roof can be replaced if budget allows and you wish to make a change to the style of your roof or intend a larger renovation removing or relocating interior partition walls which may be load bearing.
Replace the garage door: If your garage door is old and outdated, replacing it can improve your home's street appeal and add an extra layer of security.
Open up interior spaces: Older homes will have a layout that can be closed in. Removing a wall and opening up living rooms can make a dramatic change to the functionality and feel of the interior space.
Declutter interior spaces: Adding built-in storage options or furniture items which provide storage for items around community rooms such as living rooms and dining rooms as well as kitchens and bathrooms can significantly improve the overall initial impact the space has on any visitor.
Modernise interior finishes: Updating the interior linings such as paint, flooring, window treatments and fixtures such as taps or knobs and handles can improve the visual appeal to your homes interior and products are available for any budget.
Update utility rooms: Bathrooms and kitchens are the rooms that significantly influence your property value. Within reason, try not to skimp on products in these rooms as products of poor quality will soon look tired. If the budget is tight - update the kitchen with new appliances, replace tapware, and cupboard hardware. Cabinets and benchtops can be repainted or replaced if the budget is generous. Internal cabinet shelving can look tired with stained edge tape - this can be replaced for minimal cost just your time and perseverance.
Above is a great example of a DIY budget kitchen renovation. Kitchen cabinets, benchtop and splashback tiles have been repainted. I used the Dulux renovate range (Satin finish for cabinets and Gloss finish for benchtop and splashback). Cabinetry door handles were replaced and new sink tapware was installed. Total cost for project was $590AUD.
Remember, giving your home a facelift doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. Start with a few small changes and work your way up to bigger updates as your budget and time allow.