10 Easy Home Improvement Projects Under $500
Easy DIY home improvement projects under $500 to personalize your home and add value.
Feeling overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list of home improvements?
I totally get it!
My Pinterest boards overflow with dream kitchens and spa-like bathrooms, but my reality is more like chipped paint and outdated fixtures.
It’s easy to get paralyzed by the sheer number of potential projects and their price tags.
I mean, where do you even start?
One thing I’ve discovered since buying our first home is that even small investments can yield impressive results.
Just this last week, when I started spiraling about our home projects, I challenged myself to identify high-impact projects that could be completed with a modest budget.
I asked myself:
“If you had $500 to update your home, what would you do this week?”
The goal is to choose the thing that makes the biggest impact. If $500 doesn’t seem like enough to spread throughout the house, try going room-by-room and ask:
“If you had $500 to spend in this room, what would make the biggest impact?”
Write down your ideas room-by-room for future reference. If you find yourself in a rut, you can simply look back at your master list and easily make updates one at a time.
If you are struggling with where to spend money in your home, interior designers recommend spending the bulk of your budget on decor and design elements that are at eye level because they are more noticeable.
Today, I’m sharing 7 Easy Home Improvement Projects under $500 that will make a huge impact. Most of these require just a few simple tools plus a little creativity and hard work on your part!
Okay, let’s get started!
Easy DIY Home Improvements Under $500
Source: Cassiejblog.com
1. Light Fixtures
Upgrading overhead lighting is a simple DIY project that can dramatically transform any room.
Swap out that outdated ceiling fan or boring hallway light for a stylish chandelier or semi-flush mount.
New fixtures will give any room a fresh new look and showcase your style.
With a basic understanding of electrical wiring and a screwdriver, you can swap out any fixture you like!
Best Kitchen Lighting Options for Low Ceilings
Best Outdoor Lantern Lights for a Cottage Exterior
2. New Faucets
Another quick and impactful DIY update is swapping out old faucets.
A new faucet is a simple way to elevate the look of a dated kitchen or bathroom and add to your home’s value.
Being on a budget doesn’t mean skimping on style and quality, either! With stores like Wayfair and Amazon, finding faucets with a high-end look at affordable prices is easier than ever.
This simple upgrade can make a huge impact, whether a sleek, modern design or a classic, timeless style.
3. Wallpaper Accent
Wallpaper adds warmth, personality, and drama to any room and is very doable at this price point.
There is something for every home style, with many patterns, colors, and textures available. Although wallpaper works in any room, including main living spaces, I like it sprinkled throughout the house in places like a laundry room, bathroom, bedroom, or office.
Whether you choose to wallpaper an entire room or create a statement accent wall, wallpaper is a simple project that yields stunning results.
Source: Nadinestay.com
4. Repaint Cabinets
Don’t underestimate the impact of a new coat of paint on cabinet doors.
This is probably one of the most labor-intensive DIY projects, but it’s a great way to transform a kitchen or bathroom on a tight budget.
Use a paint sprayer for a more professional and even paint application to speed up the process.
With a bit of sweat equity, you can give your cabinets new life and increase the value of your home, too.
5. New Cabinet Hardware
Updating cabinet hardware is a quick and inexpensive way to update kitchens and bathrooms.
Replacing outdated knobs and cabinet pulls with timeless options will instantly elevate your cabinets.
At this price point, splurge on high-quality, timeless options like unlacquered brass or opt for less expensive hardware to update the faucet or cabinets.
Best Unlacquered Brass Cabinet Hardware Ideas
Source: Rejuvenation
6. Brass Outlet Covers
As they say, the devil is in details, and swapping out your standard outlet covers for stylish brass ones is a perfect example.
Brass adds a touch of warmth and sophistication, and it complements a variety of design styles.
Replacing outlet covers is a quick and easy DIY project that requires minimal tools and effort.
7. Crown Molding
Crown molding is a highly desired addition that potential buyers love to see.
This timeless architectural detail instantly makes a space feel more finished.
For standard ceilings, use at least 3.5-4″ molding to achieve an expensive, high-end look.
While it might seem intimidating, installing crown molding is a DIY project that can be tackled with careful planning and a miter saw.
Although the process is a bit tedious, the payoff is immense, as crown molding adds depth, dimension, and a sophisticated look to any space.
8. Faux Beams
Faux beams are an easy way to add instant character to your home.
These budget-friendly alternatives to real beams create texture and interest without the hassle of structural changes.
Available in various materials and styles, faux beams can transform a plain ceiling into a focal point.
Whether you’re aiming for a cozy cottage aesthetic or a modern rustic vibe, faux beams are an impactful DIY project.
9. Front Door upgrade
Your front door is your home’s first impression, so why not make it a showstopper?
Upgrading your entryway door can dramatically enhance your home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency.
Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, a stylish new handle, or a complete door replacement, this investment can transform the look of your entire house and
10. New Flooring
Don’t let a limited budget hold you back from flooring dreams.
While LVP or hardwood flooring requires more funds, there are plenty of ways to refresh your floors for under $500.
Consider budget-friendly options like area rugs to add color and texture, staining or painting your existing floors, or adding an affordable tile in the bathroom.
Conclusion
Small changes can truly transform your home. Remember, you don’t need a full-scale renovation to create a space you love.
Focusing on these easy, budget-friendly updates allows you to breathe new life into your home without breaking the bank.
So, stop dreaming and start doing! Identify your room’s biggest impact area, choose a project, and let’s turn your house into a home you love spending time in!
