Inexpensive Renovation Ideas

Clean and Declutter

• The first step in many renovations is clearing the area, and cleaning and decluttering can make a big difference in selling a home. Remove everything, from pictures on the walls to furniture, lamps and rugs on the floors. Completely empty the room or whole house, organizing everything that is removed when storing it in another place if possible. Sort through the removed contents and pare them down to a few essentials that will be returned when work is completed, such as main furniture and lighting items. Clean all windows and floors of dirt, dust and any other grime and marks of wear and tear. If renovating a whole house, decluttering plans may need to include renting a dumpster and moving items to a storage unit until work is finished or holding a yard sale or estate sale to clear the building of items that aren't disposable.

Fresh Paint

• Fresh paint is one of the cheapest renovation techniques. Adding color or lightening the color on walls creates a clean impression, makes a space look bigger and makes occupants feel more comfortable. Warm colors in light hues, such as creams, yellows, tans and roses create an inviting environment and pleasant appearance. A new coat of paint cleans up and covers marks on walls. Fresh paint on a front door or entryway not only improves "curb appeal" but can also improve the value and ability to sell.

Curtains, Lights and Rugs

• Removing faded, torn or worn curtains and rugs alone will make a dramatic difference in a room or throughout a house, even if they are not replaced. New window and floor treatments and lighting fixtures update an area's look and feel without breaking the bank. Handy or experienced homeowners can totally update a room or whole house's look with ceramic tile, wood laminate flooring or new carpet and updated curtains and blinds. Removing outdated, broken and inadequate lighting and replacing with higher intensity, new fixtures and lamps creates a cleaner space with better illumination.

New Appliances

• New energy-efficient appliances such as washers and driers, dishwashing machines, stoves and refrigerators makes a huge difference in appearances and utilities expenses. Economy and mid-range appliances increase a property's value but won't break the bank.

Finishing Touches

• Finishing touches, such as new baseboards, window trim or even crown molding, are inexpensive ways to create fresh new looks. Add fresh trim after painting, or replace old trim if walls are in good condition. Trim is a way to add color and style to an outdated room or home and to create a finished look to walls and windows.