Have you got an itch to create? These home renovation ideas are perfect for any savvy DIY’er to complete in a single weekend. Whether you’re improving to stay or sell, break out the paintbrushes because it’s time to get creative!
A few tips to remember:
- Never attempt work that a licenced tradesperson should only perform. If in doubt, get a tradie out!
- If you’re renovating to sell, stick with neutral colours – your dream home may not be your buyer’s dream home.
- Go beyond a glass of wine and an evening on Pinterest. Get the measuring tape out, research pricing, tools, and hidden costs you’ll need for your ideas.
- Make a budget and stick to it!
- Look for ideas that add value to potential buyers —selling to families? A fully fenced yard will likely be higher on their wish list than fancy tapware.
Quick Bathroom Refresh
There is so much you can do with a bathroom. The latest lines in bathroom fittings and décor are nothing short of stunning, so it’s the perfect time to show your bathroom a little love.
– Replace Bathroom tapware. Black, gold and chrome tapware are so on-trend right now.
– Create a place for everything by adding shelves, hooks, and towel rails
– Replace the toilet seat! There is nothing worse than a tired toilet!
How to update a kitchen – without spending a fortune
It’s usually the most expensive room to renovate and the one in greatest need! While your dream kitchen may not be in the budget just yet, there are plenty of little weekender projects that will improve the look and the usability of your kitchen
– Tapware and Splashbacks. A splash of style can make such a difference!
– Draw and cupboard handles cost more than you’d expect, but a fresh set of modern handles will make a remarkable difference to your kitchen.
– Storage solutions. With so many cool and affordable storage options, you can turn clutter into calm in an afternoon. You’ll find loads of storage and pantry organisation inspo online.
Let there be light – and modern colour!
Light and colour are the two game-changers in home renovation projects. Upgrading or changing your home’s lighting and colour can instantly bring the look forward by decades.
– Give a tired wall a new lease on life. This means filling holes and cracks, sanding back flaws in the current paint, fixing gaps in joins and creating the perfect blank canvas.
– Reflect on your lighting. Cool white light bulbs work best in living areas, while the softer feel of a warm bulb is lovely for bedrooms. While planning the light in your room, don’t forget to consider windows, the position of the sun, the time of year and any reflective surfaces.
– Clever mirrors. A well-positioned mirror can direct light from a bright, cheery room into a dark neighbouring hallway.
Who doesn’t need more storage?
Adding storage to your home can add value, too. There’s nothing worse than losing out on a sale because of something so pedestrian as a linen cupboard. Creating space and storage where there was none is a real art – the fine art of clutter control.
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Improve street appeal!
Street appeal is a significant factor in getting foot traffic to an open home. You can invite more interest in your property by making slight changes to your front yard and entryway. Even if you’re not planning to sell right away, nobody WANTS the worst looking house on the street!
Plan your DIY Renovation
Planning is the most crucial stage of any renovation, and proper planning prevents budget blowouts and bad results.
- Create your renovation plan and price your wish list items.
- Research the tools and equipment you will need so last-minute runs to Bunnings don’t hold you up!
- For major jobs, get a quote from a local tradie. Factor in how many hours you’ll need to spend on the project and whether it’s more efficient to get in a pro for the tricky jobs.
- Prepare the space. Declutter, organise, and clean before renovation day. It’s always easier to start with a blank canvas.
It’s easy to be inspired by clever home renovation ideas but making them happen and on a budget is all about planning the job and mastering new skills. Start small. Start simple. There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a DIY reno project and finding you can’t finish it!
Donna Etchells - McGrath Estate Agents 