Getting the best return on investment for your home improvements isn’t just about money. You also need a good return on your time and energy spent on decking out your house with all the best upgrades for your family. The holiday season is the perfect time to sit back in your sunroom and bask in all the fruits of your labor, but you’ll have to start working hard in the fall to make the payoff happen in time.
Because the holidays often come with a hefty price tag, especially for those with large families, it’s best to set aside money now for your big home improvement projects. This will prevent you from winding up unable to complete them in the spring and spending another year trying to budget. Another way to get a head start on financing home improvement projects is to borrow a personal loan from a private lender. You can utilize personal loans that are built to suit your needs and finances, so you get to compare rates until you find the perfect balance for your budget. If you’re ready to get started and make your home merry and bright this holiday season, here are some projects to start ASAP.
Replace Old Doors and Knobs
Old doors can date a house and put a damper on your decor. Changing your front door can have a tremendous impact on your exterior, and it’s the perfect centerpiece for hanging your holiday wreath. If you decide to replace doors in the fall, you may also be able to save money on your utility bills come winter. Because newer doors can offer greater insulation with sturdier materials and less gaps between the frame and floor, you’ll stay warmer inside while enjoying an updated aesthetic. Doorknobs can also add a new touch to an old room. Simply swapping out your knobs for ones with more flair can instantly brighten a space or add a touch of glam to your rooms. From crystal knobs to brushed brass handles, there are plenty of options to choose from that will up your home decor.
Paint Your Walls
From the kids’ rooms to your exterior siding, get any paint jobs you have planned done before the temperature drops below freezing. The best part about paint jobs is that they’re relatively easy to do on your own and can have a huge impact on the look and feel of any space. Just adding a warmer hue to your living room can instantly brighten it and make it feel like the perfect space to gather. While you’re updating your paints, consider what affect your choices will have on decor. If you intend to keep what you have, your paint should support that, but if you are looking for new wall décor ideas you will have a little more freedom in choosing a paint color. Planning a room around a color palette makes it much easier to create cohesiveness throughout your home.
Upgrade Your Sinks and Faucets
A hot and steamy shower or long soak in a nice bath is even better when you have updated fixtures. Water-saving alternatives can help lower your consumption rates, and they add a polished look to your kitchen and bathrooms for minimal cost. While you’re updating faucets and sinks, you may also consider going big and updating your countertops, too. A sleek, marble finish or even a matte wood surface can bring texture and variety to a basic design. If you plan on replacing kitchen and bathroom counters, make sure you look into sustainable materials. There are many varieties available that can be beneficial to the environment and your bank account if you sell later. Buyers are always on the lookout for eco-conscious features.
Replace Your Windows
New windows are one of the most expensive home remodeling prospects, but they’re also one of the most valuable. New windows can make rooms feel more spacious, bring in more natural light and improve insulation for greater comfort throughout the year. If you buy energy-efficient windows, or even just apply some green window treatments, you can prep your house for the cold season and enjoy bigger savings on heating. New windows may take more time than you’d like if you’re redoing the whole house. If you find that the installation times cut into your holiday schedule, consider upgrading the windows in your most used rooms first.
The living room, kitchen and bedrooms are always the most important when it comes to proper insulation and efficient windows. These will be the best places to start as you compare models and choose the right treatments for your home. Remember to keep exterior design in mind, too. You may consider installing or painting your shutters or having frames installed in a color to match your exterior trim.
Update the Fireplace
Gathering around the fire during winter is a beloved winter pastime, but it can be a little less enticing if your mantle is outdated. Resurface your fireplace for maximum impact. Stone and marble both make excellent surfaces for a fireplace surround, and they can be done to look rustic, cozy or modern depending on the design. You should also call in a chimney inspector while you’re having upgrades done to make sure your fireplace is clean and safe for use this holiday season.
