Homeownership is a goal for many people. It represents stability, safety, and a place to call your own. For some, the thought of buying a home is daunting. There are so many things to consider! But what if you found your perfect home—a fixer-upper? Suddenly, the thought of homeownership doesn’t seem so scary anymore. In fact, it might even be exciting!
Buying a fixer-upper is a great way to enter the housing market without breaking the bank. And with a little elbow grease, you can turn that into your dream home. Here are five home improvement projects to take on when you buy a fixer-upper:
Update the Kitchen
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home. This is because it is where families gather to cook and eat meals together. It’s also a great space for entertaining guests. If your fixer-upper has an outdated or dysfunctional kitchen, give it a facelift! Update the cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Adding new hardware or painting the cabinets can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the space. And if you’re feeling ambitious, you could even knock down walls to create an open-concept kitchen/living/dining area.
Consider adding storage solutions such as wire shelving, under-cabinet lighting, and pull-out drawers if you have a smaller kitchen space. You can also use multi-function furniture, such as a kitchen island with extra storage and seating. You could also install a skylight or replace an existing window with a larger one to let some light in to make the kitchen space look bigger.
Refresh the Bathrooms
Like the kitchen, bathrooms are an important part of any home. They should be functional and stylish spaces that offer respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If your fixer-upper’s bathrooms need an update, replace fixtures like faucets, towel bars, and light fixtures. Give it a new look by updating the lighting, painting the walls or vanity, and adding new hardware. If you have the budget, replacing a tub with a larger shower is also an option.
Focus on updating the toilet by replacing the seat and getting a new low-flow model. A low-flow toilet will help you save money on your water bill and is better for the environment. You can also add luxury to your bathroom by installing heated flooring or towel racks. These features are great for cold winter mornings and provide warmth and comfort. Don’t forget about finishes like paint colors, tile backsplashes, and flooring—these can also impact small spaces.
Paint Every Room
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for any space. When choosing paint colors, consider the size and layout of each room and your style preferences. Light colors make small rooms feel larger, while dark colors can add coziness to larger spaces. Once you’ve decided on paint colors for each room, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work! Focus on prepping the walls and ceilings first by filling in any cracks or holes. Then, you can brush on primer and apply two coats of paint to give your home a facelift.
If you have kids, invest in washable paint to easily clean up any splatters or spills. For added texture and visual interest, you could also try a faux finish technique like sponging or ragging. Faux finishes require special tools and some practice, but they are a great way to add personality to your walls.
Upgrade the Garage
The garage is the perfect place to store your car, tools, and outdoor equipment. Consider updating the garage doors with modern designs that are energy-efficient and secure. For instance, you could install a smart garage door opener that can be controlled with your smartphone or an overhead door with motion sensors.
Focus on insulation and ventilation if you want to transform your garage into a living space. These two features are key to making sure the area stays comfortable year-round. You could also install a heating or air conditioning unit if needed. Additionally, consider adding cabinets, shelving, and wall-mounted storage to make the most of the space. If you have an attached garage, consider replacing the door leading into the house to make it more secure.
Replace Old Flooring
Old and worn-out floors can be an eyesore, so replacing them is necessary. Consider refinishing hardwood floors or installing tile for easy cleaning and maintenance. If you’re looking for something more affordable, consider replacing carpeting with laminate or vinyl plank flooring. Add area rugs to warm up the space and add color and pattern.
If you’re on a tight budget, paint your existing tile or wood floors with a decorative stencil or pattern. This also makes it easy to add color and character without breaking the bank. Also, consider upgrading baseboards and trim to give your floors an extra touch of style.
Updating your fixer-upper can be a fun and rewarding experience. You can transform every inch of your home by making simple changes like painting each room, replacing old flooring, and upgrading the garage. With creativity and hard work, you’ll have a newly renovated space that perfectly reflects your style and tastes.
