In need of a makeover?

Whether you are having difficulty selling your home or you bought a fix-er-upper, there are a handful of things that you can do that will add value to your home without breaking the bank.  If you are a do-it-yourselfer kind of guy/gal, or you need a little help from us, your pocket book (and eyes) will thank you for these updates.  My first suggestion would be to focus on the bathroom and the kitchen as those are the two rooms where (typically) the most time is spent and is often the most looked at come sell time.

Bathroom:

Update your floors - Sick of that old dingy roll out linoleum?  Me too.  Consider having that ripped out and installing some natural stone, porcelain, or ceramic tiles.  When picking out your design try to keep things simple.  Not only will it be easier to install, but it will be easier for matching purposes should you want to paint or change up the bathroom theme.  Simple also usually means less expensive!

Update the lighting - Do you either A) feel like you are awaiting surgery or B) feel like you are about to take part in the next Friday the 13th movie each time you walk into your bathroom and flip on the light?  If so, it is probably time for an update!  A bathroom is suppose to be a place of serenity and peacefulness, yet most of us have either too much or too little lighting.  The light is what sets the tone for the rest of the bathroom decor. 

Update the shower head - Rain heads are hot right now and will typically add a dollar for dollar value.

Kitchen:

Cabinets - New cabinets can be expensive, especially if they are custom.  As long as your existing cabinets are structurally in good condition, considering refacing them.  Your old cabinets can look brand new again by some refacing and maybe adding some new hardware.  This will save you a considerable amount of money as opposed to purchasing brand new cabinets.  Just make sure you leave this job to the professionals.

Counter tops - Look into resurfacing.  This (like cabinets) will save you quite a bit as opposed to buying an all new counter top.  Depending on what you currently have installed in your kitchen you can always add ceramic tiles to existing plywood, or have your solid/stone counter top professionally polished.  Adding a back splash is also a great way to dress up your kitchen without breaking the bank.