You don’t have to take out a loan to liven up your living space. These simple DIY ideas and projects can make a big impression without breaking the bank — and deliver extra appeal to potential homebuyers.
Bright and connected
Bring some dimension to your kitchen with under-cabinet lighting. A three-pack of surface-mounted LED puck lights is easy to install. You could also choose a plug-and-play smart light strip controlled through an app or a self-adhesive tape light kit that is trimmable to desired lengths. Add lighting to areas lacking, such as closets, hallways, and pantries. Place battery-operated tap lights in dark corners or closets, hallways, and pantries not wired with fixtures.
A popular feature for modern homebuyers, wireless smart thermostats increase home value and offer substantial energy savings by optimizing heating and cooling schedules. Many can be installed in place of existing units, providing smart home integration and remote control via apps. Try smart plug-in outlets with remote control. Insert into a standard outlet and control lights and appliances, holiday decorations, or hard-to-reach fixtures for the mobility impaired.
Easy-to-install dimmer switches enhance ambiance while reducing energy used, a selling point for homebuyers. Replace standard light switches with programmable timer options. Many models are designed for easy installation with standard wiring. Convert a standard electrical outlet into one with USB ports for convenient charging. A battery-powered wireless doorbell’s chime unit plugs into a standard outlet, and the button attaches to the door frame.
The power of paint
Paint is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to transform a space. Revitalize a childish-looking bedroom color with a soothing neutral for broader appeal. To get started, stock up on new roller covers, painter’s tape, a painting extension pole, and drop cloths.
Garage floor paint is an easy (and popular) way to change the feel of that space. Plus, there are endless options for color flake additives for extra pizzazz. Use anti-skid paint additives in porch and floor enamel for added safety on your exterior entry, unfinished basement floors, and concrete steps.
Take advantage of cooler weather and give some TLC to your wooden fence. New paint or stain is a quick way to refresh its look for added curb appeal. Polish the look of your front door with a few fresh coats and a new pop of color.
Paint can give an old brick fireplace a modern makeover. Use a masonry cleaner or TSP solution with a stiff bristle brush to loosen baked-on grime. Next, use a heavy nap roller cover and apply a stain-blocking masonry primer to cover up soot stains. Complete the contemporary look with a bright white high-gloss, heat-resistant acrylic paint suitable for masonry and high-heat enamel on areas exposed to direct heat.
(This article is for informational purposes only. Indiana Connection and Do it Best assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)
TJ Leininger is the manager of Enyart’s Hardware in Rochester, a Do it Best member. Do it Best is a Fort Wayne-based home improvement cooperative supporting thousands of hardware stores, home centers, and lumberyards throughout the US and worldwide. Visit your local Do it Best store or doitbest.com for thousands of home improvement products.
