Home Renovation Projects Under $1,000 That Add Lasting Value

Enhancing your living space doesn’t always require a hefty budget. Numerous home renovation projects can add significant value to your home without breaking the bank. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply craving a fresh look, this Redfin article will unveil a curated list of budget-friendly home renovation projects, all under $1,000. 

So, if you’re looking for easy DIY projects for your home in Grand Rapids, MI, your apartment in Portland, OR, or you want to increase your home’s value, discover how these cost-effective projects can breathe new life into your space.

1. Add fresh paint to the walls of your home

A fresh coat of paint can significantly influence your home’s perceived value. It instantly revitalizes the space, making it feel brighter, cleaner, and updated. The cost of a paint project can vary, but on average, a gallon of quality paint may range from $30 to $50, and for an entire room, the cost can be around $200. 

Consider timeless neutral shades like soft gray, warm beige, or crisp white for a versatile and elegant look that appeals to a wide range of tastes. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for an accent color like navy blue, forest green, or mustard yellow to add personality and character to your space. Alternatively, you can experiment with calming hues such as sage green or powder blue for a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Renovating your home?

Find out what your home's worth, edit facts, and see the impact of home projects.

See your home value

2. Update your cabinet hardware

A cabinet hardware update is a subtle yet effective strategy to elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Swapping outdated or generic cabinet handles and knobs for modern, stylish alternatives instantly transforms kitchens and bathrooms. Consider sleek brushed nickel handles for a contemporary touch, or opt for vintage-inspired brass knobs for a timeless charm. This modest investment typically costs between $2 to $10 per piece.

3. Change the kitchen backsplash

Transforming your kitchen with backsplash is a savvy home improvement project that seamlessly merges style and functionality. Introducing a custom kitchen backsplash protects your walls from daily wear and becomes a focal point that elevates the entire room. 

Opting for affordable ceramic or glass tiles, which can be found for as low as $1 to $5 per square foot, allows you to stay within a $1,000 budget for a standard-sized kitchen. Or you can opt for a peel-and-stick backsplash that is not only budget-friendly but a quick solution to make your kitchen stand out.

4. Switch to energy-efficient lighting

By making the switch to energy-efficient lighting, you’ll not only improve the sustainability of your home but also create a more comfortable and inviting living environment. Choosing LED bulbs, which typically cost between $2 to $10 each, offers long-lasting performance and lower energy usage, leading to significant savings on utility bills over time.

Beyond the financial benefits, the crisp and vibrant illumination of energy-efficient lighting can effortlessly enhance your home’s overall mood and appeal.

5. Create a beautiful landscape

Improving your home’s landscaping is another budget-friendly home renovation project that adds value. Try planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the size and variety. Add mulch or decorative stones to create a polished look for approximately $50 to $150, while adding affordable outdoor lighting options typically range from $50 to $200. Opting for low-maintenance features involves minimal investment in tools and materials, while also leaving a lasting impression.

6. Install a smart thermostat

Investing in a smart thermostat, such as popular models like Nest or Ecobee, typically costs between $150 to $300, depending on the brand and features. The installation process is straightforward, often suitable for a DIY approach, minimizing additional labor expenses. Once installed, these intelligent devices learn your preferences, allowing for automated temperature adjustments, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps.

7. Refurbish or paint the front door

Transforming your home’s curb appeal can be as simple as refurbishing or painting the front door, a low-cost project that has instant visual impact. Refurbishing a door, such as sanding and restaining, is a budget-friendly option, needing few materials and often costing less than $100. Another choice is to use high-quality exterior paint, which typically ranges from $30 to $50 per gallon, providing a fresh, vibrant color that suits your home’s style.

8. Add floating shelves or built-ins

Consider adding floating shelves or built-in storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized. Floating shelves, available for as little as $20 to $50 per shelf, provide an affordable and stylish way to showcase decor or organize essentials. For a more customized approach, DIY built-ins can be crafted using plywood or ready-to-assemble shelving units, typically ranging from $100 to $300.

9. Upgrade your kitchen sink and faucet

Upgrading your kitchen sink and faucet can breathe new life into your kitchen. With a range of options available, you can find faucets priced between $100 to $300 and sinks ranging from $200 to $500. 

Consider a sleek pull-down faucet and a resilient stainless steel or granite composite sink to improve both function and style. The combined investment, ranging from $300 to $800, instantly transforms the kitchen’s aesthetic and functionality, making daily tasks more efficient while adding a touch of contemporary elegance. 

10. Add safety measures to protect your home

Securing your home and ensuring peace of mind has become more accessible than ever with the installation of modern safety protocols, such as security cameras. Investing in a home surveillance system, typically from $200 to $500, allows real-time monitoring and deterrence against potential threats. 

The addition of smart cameras, with features like motion detection and remote access via smartphone apps, enhances your home’s overall safety and convenience. With a budget-conscious investment of $500 to $1,000, you can create a comprehensive security network covering critical areas of your property.