Cost-Efficient Ways to Renovate Your Kitchen

The idea of a new and updated kitchen can be an exciting prospect. Imagine new appliances, pristine counters, rich cabinets and shiny wood flooring. A kitchen renovation is also one of the top rehabs on most homeowner wish lists. In addition to making a home more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, it can also increase the value of your dwelling if you decide to sell.  The following are some cost-efficient DIY ideas to get you started.

Home Facelift

As a person ages, they may decide to do some updating to their appearance in the way of Botox or facial sculpting. The same can be said for a new home. While the idea of renovating a home may sound costly, Janet Yellen, Chair of the Federal Reserve, is considering negative interest rates to prevent the economy from going into a double dip recession. With a stronger economy and more money in your pocket, you can renovate your kitchen by giving your cabinets a much needed facelift. Simply remove the cabinet doors and strip, repaint or refinish them. If you like the dramatic look, you can permanently remove the doors to give you an open shelving type of look. Line the wall behind with some decorative wallpaper and place your glasses and dinnerware on display.

Breathe New Light

A home renovation loan can allow you the chance to take your old dwelling and spruce it up. While you may have the funds to give your entire home a new look, simple fixes can add significant improvement. If you have old lighting fixtures in your home that are dated, simply switch them with something stylish. If you have a kitchen island, pendant lamps can easily transform a dated kitchen. You can also add lighting under your cabinets to brighten up your kitchen space.

Second Life

Hardwood flooring can take a beating, especially if you have children and pets. You can give your wood a second life by having the planks refinished. Simply rent a sander and find the right stain to match your kitchen. If you find that a refinish isn’t a viable option for your kitchen, you’ll find more affordable flooring alternatives such as vinyl, laminate or engineered hardwood. If you’re feeling adventurous in your remodel, you could also install ceramic tile.

It’s in the Details

A home remodel doesn’t have to be about knocking down walls. It can also be minimal details that can add character to a home. From a new faucet and pull out drawers to towel racks and a farmer’s sink, these minor additions can add to your kitchen’s function and ambience. Your local home improvement store will have a variety of design options. You can also refurbish the items at a store that is focused on sustainability and recycling products. In addition to being better for the environment, the reused items will save you money.

Change the Counter

New counters installed in your kitchen can give your room a dramatic change. Unfortunately, this major project can come at a price in both work and expense. If you want to take the easy route, but still change the look of your kitchen, you could purchase a kit that allows you to paint the tiles on your counter space. Other DIY options include concrete counters or laminates that come in a brilliant array of designs and colors.

Get Artsy

Another inexpensive way to freshen your kitchen and breathe new life into it is to purchase some art. You don’t have to go to an art gallery to add wall character. Simple things such as professionally framing children’s artwork or vintage towels can be eye catching. You can also make masterpieces by perusing estate sales or your local antique shop for decorative cutting boards or old containers that can be used as a vase or accent pieces on your counter tops.