Even people who love their home can start to grow tired of it over time. Things start to look old and dull. You begin to see little issues you didn’t before. And it can make you want to do something drastic – like move to a new home and take on a mortgage after paying the last one off.
Instead of getting into more debt, there are some things you can do to give yourself a modern home with the home you’re already living in. The following are just a few ideas.
1. Repaint
Nothing can breathe new life into a home like a fresh coat of paint – especially if it’s a new color. The beauty is that you’ve got plenty of options to choose from.
It’s always a good idea to choose your paint according to the room you’re using it in. For example, you’ll want to use soothing tones in your bedroom to promote relaxation.
Neutral shades can be great throughout your home, as you have more options when it comes to decorating. However, if you have an office or a gym, colors like orange are known to energize.
While you are painting, don’t forget to update your exterior colors, too. A good paint job with fresh colors can make your home look brand new.
2. Use New Fixtures and Hardware
Door knobs, drawer handles, and light fixtures can become dull over time. You can always take them down to shine them, but a better option is usually to replace them. There are some great choices available that can really help enhance the look of your room and tie your décor together.
3. Lighting
Good lighting can have many effects on your house and your family. It helps your home look more inviting and newer. It can help smaller rooms seem larger. And it can boost your family’s overall mood and energy levels.
Upgrading to brighter lighting, such as LED bulbs, is always helpful. However, if you really want to make a difference, increasing your natural light is a better option.
If your windows are covered, it may take as little as uncovering them to see a difference. However, you might need to add a skylight or some more windows to your home.
4. Appliances
Upgrading to new appliances is a big step that does require an upfront investment. However, it can provide great benefits. It will not only improve the look of your kitchen but can also save you some money over time.
Old appliances can cost use up to 1700 kWh per year. New ENERGY STAR appliances can use 450 kWh per year or less, depending on the appliance.
By upgrading several different appliances, you can save hundreds on your energy bills each year. Therefore, the investment will pay for itself over time, and you’ll have nice, new appliances to enjoy in the meantime.
5. Open Flooring
Do you have a room that just seems too small? Do you feel like there are more walls than there should be? You can completely overhaul the look of your home by tearing down some of those walls.
Before you break out the sledgehammer, though, you need to be sure you’re tearing down the right walls. Though not every wall in your home will be necessary – or load-bearing – some will, and you need those to support your home. Consider seeking help so that you don’t find yourself in trouble.
