Home improvement can be achieved without totally blowing the budget. Most people are a bit more careful about where and how they spend their hard earned money. Gone are the days when home equity was rising so rapidly than an instant equity ATM was available at a moment’s notice. Homeowners have learned the hard lesson of leaving that equity intact. Taking out a huge loan to pay for improvements is not the best plan. But having a lovely haven as a habitat can still be accomplished with a little creativity and elbow grease. Here are some things to think about:
Beauty Counts
Think it’s a frivolous waste of money to have a beautiful place to live? Think again. Studies have shown that a person’s environment effects their attitude, health and quality of life. People actually absorb their environment. If the place they hang their hat is lovely and peaceful, they will feel that way, too. If it’s an ugly, messy eyesore, this will pile stress on their psyche, which can cause them to have a lower immune response and can actually deteriorate relationships. Every time a person walks into a house that repels them, it will detract from their well-being. Every time they walk into an abode that feels comforting and looks appealing, they will breathe a sigh of relief and feel their stress levels fall off.
Sweat Equity
Perhaps a person isn’t a skilled craftsperson with a garage full of carpentry tools but there are still ways they can do-it-themselves. Every person can maneuver a hammer and a paintbrush. Painting the walls can completely change the look of a place. Light colors tend to open up the space and make it feel larger. Darker colors do the opposite and can make barn like structures feel more cozy and welcoming. It’s wise to bring paint chips home from the store to see how the hues look in the actual lighting of the place. Perusing decorating magazines is a good way to get ideas, too. Hanging up artwork is another way to add pizazz to a place. Go to the local library and check out books on making bookshelves and landscaping the yard. This can add organization and lushness to the property.
Inexpensive Bathroom or Kitchen Renovations
Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most utilized spaces in a home. They also can be pricey to rejuvenate without a little creativity. Cupboards and cabinetry can make a big difference in the rooms and it doesn’t have to be top dollar or custom made, either. Unfinished products can be installed and stained or painted by the homeowner. New hardware and knobs can add a unique design statement. Existing cabinetry can be upgraded by simply adding new doors. Appliances can be purchased used at Habitat-for-Humanity or Craigslist. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Again, looking at decorating magazines are wonderful ways to gather inspiration and ideas.
Home improvement can make a big difference in terms of quality of life. No need to take out a huge loan. Be smart, keep the budget intact and improve your living environment.
