By The Numbers

BEST HOME UPDATES FOR YOUR BUDGET

BY AUDREY SELLERS

Got a few hundred bucks and an open weekend? Or maybe you’re dreaming of a major home renovation? No matter what your budget and timeline, you can create the kind of home you’ve always envisioned.

Here are a few ideas, from simple updates to full-on transformations, to breathe new life into your home.

$500 or less. You don’t need to spend a lot to refresh your home. Give your front door a bold pop of color with a fresh coat of paint or use wallpaper to make a statement in your entryway. You could also

swap your outdated light fixtures for something more contemporary, like a pendant or chandelier. Even small touches, like lamps, mirrors, or new bedding, can elevate your space without exceeding your budget.

$1,000 to $5,000. Have a little more wiggle room in your budget? Consider getting a new area rug to completely change a room’s vibe. Choose a bold, patterned design or a sumptuous fabric for added texture. You could also refresh your kitchen’s overall look with updated cabinet knobs or handles in a modern finish like matte black or brushed gold. In this budget range, you could also update your window treatments with custom drapery or add wall art to elevate a room’s design.

$5,000 to $10,000. With a more substantial budget, you could give your kitchen or bathroom a sophisticated facelift. New countertops made with high-end materials like quartz, updated faucets, and modernized sinks can make a big diff erence. Outdoors, consider adding some architectural charm with a custom pergola, a built-in fireplace, or a fully equipped grilling area to create an inviting, functional space for entertaining or just relaxing with your family.

$10,000 to $25,000. If you’re ready to jump in with a larger investment, you could make major upgrades to your bathroom or kitchen. In the kitchen, replace your cabinetry with custom made options, put in top-of-the-line appliances, or a show stopping island. Or, in the bathroom, add an elegant freestanding tub, heated floors, or walk-in shower with custom tiling for a spa-like retreat right in your own home.

$25,000 and up. With this budget, you can roll out the biggest updates, from fully customized features to major overhauls. If you have an older home, you may want to do a whole-home renovation. This could involve tearing down walls to create more functional spaces or replacing your home’s electrical and HVAC systems. You could also hire interior design pros to help beautify your newly renovated spaces. From motorized shades to a fully equipped home gym, you can make touches that suit your specific lifestyle.

Whether you’re keeping things affordable or ready to splurge, you can make a big impact at any price point. The key is finding the right balance between what you want and what you can invest. And remember: Every update brings you closer to a space that feels uniquely yours.

Sustainable (And Smart!) Updates

If you’re going to enhance your space, why not incorporate sustainability? You could reduce your utility bills, increase your property value, and contribute to a healthier planet. Here are a few ideas to go green:

• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances. If you’re replacing your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR-rated models. They require less power than standard models, which means a lower energy bill.

• Insall smart thermostats. These can help you avoid unnecessary cooling and heating, ensuring energy is used only when you’re home.

• Choose low VOC and non-toxic paints. Seek out paints made from natural ingredients like plant-based oils, which are biodegradable and have fewer environmental impacts during production. It’s an easy way to improve your home’s indoor air quality.

• Incorporate native plants. Update your landscaping with plants that thrive in North Texas yards. Some options include black-eyed Susans, autumn sage, and Indian paintbrush. These drought-tolerant plants require less water, helping you reduce your water bill.