As a homeowner, you have a lot to maintain. Whether you buy an existing home or build new, at some point you’ll have to replace or upgrade some part of your home. But remodels are expensive, and not everyone has the time or funds to do one. Luckily, there are still plenty of ways you can make minor upgrades to your Missouri home without breaking the bank.

Fresh Paint

One of the most important aspects in a home’s value is its curb appeal, and sometimes all it takes to give a home a facelift is a fresh coat of paint. Whether that means painting the entire exterior or opting just to spruce up the trim, paint jobs can typically be as big or as small as your budget allows. You can find paint on sale at your local hardware store and do it yourself, or hire a professional to do it for you. And while updating your paint job, don’t forget the mailbox!

This goes for indoor paint jobs too — spruce up the living room with an accent wall or repaint a room. Keep in mind, though, that trends come and go, so if you’re looking to maintain your home’s resale value, it’s best to stick with timeless and neutral colors.

Kitchen/Bathroom Updates

Two of the best places to invest in your home are the kitchen and the bathroom. But full-scale remodels can add up quickly (not to mention wreak havoc on your access to the two rooms you use the most). Simple things like new floor tiles or updated cabinets can freshen up the look of a room and keep it from becoming dated. In the kitchen, slowly replacing appliances with newer, space-saving models as you’re able to afford it can enhance your own quality of life, improve your home’s value and do it without having to account for a major remodel.

In the bathroom, updated fixtures can save on space and water. Choose items that fit well in the space. Even small items like light fixtures or new shower heads can keep a room from becoming outdated.

Landscaping

Once again, the first impression people have of your home is one of the biggest factors in its resale value. Even if you’re not looking to sell, you should feel a sense of welcome as soon as your home comes into view.

Of course, one of the most important aspects of proper landscaping is keeping everything neat. Trim trees and bushes, and keep the lawn cut. Landscaping projects, like painting, can be major or minor, depending on what you want. Things like container gardens can be done on your own, while a professional can help with bigger projects. If you have a garden bed, make sure it is clean and in good condition — if it isn’t, consider replacing any old or worn-looking pieces.

You can also have fun decorating your yard — weather-resistant fountains, sculptures, bird baths and wind chimes come in a variety of prices for all budgets, and can add personality and distinction to your yard, increasing its value and enhancing your own everyday use.

Windows/Doors

New windows or doors can also help with curb appeal, not to mention give you an upgrade on a highly used part of your home. A new, high-end garage door, for instance, could cost about $3,500, but a Cost vs. Value report by www.remodeling.hw.net says you’ll likely recoup up to 98 percent of that cost. In older houses, new windows not only improve the look of your home, but they’ll likely be more energy efficient, saving you money on heating and cooling. If you’re not up for installing a new door, consider giving it a new coat of paint along with the rest of the house — maybe even in a welcoming accent color to make your home stand out.

Still not sure where to start? We’d love to help! At CMS Homes, our team of professionals can help you determine what your home needs. Contact us to start the conversation.