Cheap and Easy Home Projects That Deliver Great Value

Many homeowners dream of boosting their property's value and enhancing its appeal, but the thought of costly renovations can be daunting. Fortunately, we have good news: You don't need a massive budget or even a general contractor to make a significant impact. There are numerous do-it-yourself projects that offer an impressive bang for your buck, increasing your home's comfort, efficiency and even its resale value.

At Ideal Credit Union, we believe in empowering our members to make smart financial decisions for their homes. Here are some of our top picks for easy, high-impact DIY projects that can offer great returns.

1. A Fresh Coat of Paint: The Ultimate Transformation

Perhaps the simplest yet most transformative DIY project is a fresh coat of paint.

• Why it works: It instantly brightens a space, covers wear and tear and makes rooms feel cleaner, larger and more modern. Neutral colors like soft grays, beiges or classic whites have broad appeal and are perfect if you're thinking about resale. Don't limit yourself to walls – painting outdated kitchen cabinets can give your kitchen a whole new look without the cost of a full remodel.
• Bang for your buck: High ROI, low cost and easy to do over a weekend.

2. Update Lighting and Fixtures: Brighten Up Your Home's Style

Outdated light fixtures, cabinet hardware and faucets can make a home feel tired. Swapping them out is an easy and affordable way to infuse modern style.

• Why it works: New light fixtures can dramatically improve a room's ambiance and functionality, especially if you opt for energy-efficient LED bulbs. Replacing old cabinet knobs, drawer pulls and bathroom faucets or showerheads can make kitchens and bathrooms sparkle without major renovations. Even new switch plates and outlet covers can make a difference!
• Bang for your buck: Moderate ROI, low to moderate cost and generally easy to install.

3. Enhance Curb Appeal: Make a Stunning First Impression

The exterior of your home is the first thing guests and potential buyers see. Simple improvements can significantly boost your home's attractiveness.

• Why it works: A well-maintained exterior suggests a well-maintained interior. Easy projects include:
  • Painting your front door: A fresh coat of paint in an inviting color can instantly boost curb appeal. Replacing an old, low-quality entry door with a new, energy-efficient one can also add significant value.
  • Landscaping refresh: Trim overgrown bushes, add fresh mulch to garden beds, plant colorful flowers or simply mow and tidy the lawn.
  • Power washing: Cleaning siding, driveways and walkways can remove years of grime and make your home look dramatically cleaner.
• Bang for your buck: High ROI for relatively low cost and effort, especially for painting and landscaping.

4. Smart Thermostats & Simple Energy Savers: Save Green While Going Green

While large energy upgrades can be costly, some smaller, DIY-friendly options offer immediate savings on utility bills.

• Why it works: Installing a smart thermostat allows you to optimize and automate heating and cooling use, potentially saving 10% or more on energy bills. Other simple steps like sealing air leaks around windows, doors and plumbing lines with caulk or weatherstripping can prevent hundreds of dollars from literally floating away on the breeze.
• Bang for your buck: Moderate ROI, low to moderate cost, with ongoing savings.

5. Kitchen Backsplash: A Touch of Modern Elegance

Adding a tile backsplash to your kitchen is a relatively inexpensive project that delivers a big visual impact, protecting walls and adding personality.

• Why it works: It instantly modernizes the kitchen, a key selling point for many buyers. Options like classic subway tiles or modern glass mosaics can transform the look and feel of the space in a weekend.
• Bang for your buck: Moderate ROI, low to moderate cost, with a significant visual upgrade.

6. Optimize Storage: Declutter and Maximize Space

Well-organized spaces appeal to everyone. DIY closet organizers or adding simple shelving can make your home feel more functional and prevent clutter, effectively making your home more spacious.

• Why it works: Buyers are always looking for storage. Maximizing existing closet space or adding floating shelves can create perceived value without major construction.
• Bang for your buck: Moderate ROI, low to moderate cost, improves livability.

Ready to Tackle Your Next Home Project?

Even these relatively easy projects sometimes require a little upfront investment in materials or tools. If you're looking to make these high-impact DIY improvements or even considering a larger renovation that will truly transform your space, Ideal Credit Union is here to help you make it happen.

A Flexible Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can be an excellent way to finance your home improvement dreams. A Flexible HELOC allows you to borrow against the equity you've already built in your home, providing a flexible line of credit you can draw on as needed. With competitive rates and convenient access to funds, a Flexible HELOC from Ideal Credit Union empowers you to enhance your home's value and comfort without depleting your savings.

Learn more about Ideal Credit Union's Flexible Home Equity Line of Credit options and apply today!