7 Budget House Remodeling Ideas for Small Homes

Home Renovation Can Be Done At a Low Cost With These Tips!

Remodeling a space doesn't have to be expensive. With a bit of creativity and some smart planning, you can update your home on a budget. There are plenty of budget home renovation ideas to make your house look and feel amazing. And you don’t have to spend a fortune. 

In some cases, a complete home renovation can cost up to $200,000._[1] But, sometimes, there are ways to make a big impact with as little as a few hundred bucks! Let's dive in and explore affordable home updates to transform your space!

How Do You Update Your Home on a Small Budget?

Wondering how to renovate your space on a tight budget? The key is to prioritize projects with a major impact. Focus on high-traffic areas, easy DIY projects, and changes that improve your home’s functionality. Small, strategic upgrades can make a great difference in how your home looks and feels. 

Just because something isn’t expensive doesn’t mean it can’t make a big impact. Here are some ideas to update your home on a small budget. 

You might also like: Financial Goals for Your 30s Both Short and Long-Term 

1. Refresh Your Wall Space with Paint

Painting the walls is one of the most common, cost-effective ways to give your home and space a new look. A fresh coat of paint can brighten any room and make it feel brand new. 

Here are a few rules of thumb to keep in mind: 

• Choose light colors to make small spaces feel larger. 
• Consider accent walls or color blocks to add a pop of color without overwhelming the room. 
• If you’re selling soon, the general consensus is to choose neutral colors. 

A little paint can go a long way to change the look and feel of almost any room. 

2. Kitchen Remodel: Update Your Kitchen Cabinets

The average return on investment for a minor kitchen remodel is 71.2%._[2] Luckily, you don’t have to do much to increase your home’s appeal. Instead of replacing your kitchen cabinets, consider painting them or replacing the hardware. A new color or modern handles can completely transform your kitchen’s look. 

If you’re handy with carpentry, you might simply remove cabinet doors for an open-shelf look. Explore ideas that are trendy and functional. More importantly, they should be fairly simple to accomplish with what you already have.

3. Install New Light Fixtures 

Modern lighting can make a big difference, especially in small spaces where good lighting is crucial. Changing out old light fixtures is a simple but impactful way to update your home. Look for budget-friendly clearance options at local stores. 

For example, Menards® in Fort Wayne or ACE HARDWARE™ in South Bend both have regular sales. It’s also possible to find awesome deals by exploring thrift stores, Craigslist, and local marketplaces. You might be surprised by all the surplus hardware leftover from remodeling in your community. 

4. Revamp Your Bathroom  

Bathrooms are another space where small changes can make a big impact. Consider replacing old fixtures, adding a new shower curtain, or updating the vanity with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware. As with paint, cosmetic bathroom details can be easily transformed with color. 

You can even paint old bathroom tiles to give them a sleek, modern look. Just be sure to research and find the right products. If you do this, you may need to reapply paint occasionally. 

You could also install a new mirror or add shelving for extra storage. If you have a small bathroom, think about adding a shelf above the door to store towels or other items. 

5. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, so don’t forget about your home’s exterior. Simple updates like painting the front door, adding potted plants, and updating your house numbers can make a big difference. And, if you have wiggle room in your budget, add a new mailbox or install outdoor lighting.

For inspiration on Indiana native plants to use in your landscaping, visit or explore photos of: 

• The Indiana Dunes
• Turkey Run State Park
• Eagle Creek Park
• Clifty Falls State Park

Note that harvesting plants from the Hoosier National Forest is no longer allowed._[3] Still, depending on where you live, you may be able to collect saplings or small bushes for free or for a small fee._[4]

6. Upgrade Your Flooring

Consider affordable options like laminate or vinyl if your flooring is outdated or damaged. These materials are much cheaper than hardwood but can still provide a stylish look. 

You can often find deals at local stores like Floor & Décor® in Indianapolis. Check with flooring liquidators to find the best rates. Some flooring options can sell for as low as $1 per square foot if you go this route. 

7. Organize, Design, and Declutter Spaces

Sometimes, the best way to remodel is to simply organize and declutter. Invest in storage solutions for your space like shelves, baskets, and organizers to keep everything in its place. Better organization can make your home feel more spacious without any major renovations.

Go through your home and think about what you no longer use and whether or not it still serves a purpose. You might even be able to sell some of your older items you no longer use. This is a great way to fund more budget-friendly renovations. 

You might also like: Local Assistance for Homeowners | Financial Counseling 

Fund Your Next Home Remodeling Project with Centier

Remodeling your home on a budget might take some creative thinking and a bit of elbow grease. By focusing on small, impactful changes, you can update your home without spending a fortune. 

Remember to explore local stores and locations for affordable materials and inspiration. When you incorporate these ideas, you can achieve a stylish and functional home without breaking the bank. Happy remodeling!

Ready to start your remodeling journey? To save for your next home improvement project, open a high-interest savings account with Centier.

Sources: 

[1] https://www.bookcleango.com/blog/home-improvement-statistics