Guest contribution by our friends at Sage Styling & Staging
Are you a DIY enthusiast who bought a home with “good bones” but a strong 70s or 80s vibe? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to jump into a major renovation right away to bring it into the 21st century. Sometimes, the simplest updates can make the biggest difference.
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1. Update lighting
Lighting can instantly transform the feel of a room. Bright, well-lit spaces feel more open, welcoming, and modern. Updating your light fixtures doesn’t have to be expensive. A can of metallic spray paint in brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze can work wonders. If your budget allows, consider replacing dated fixtures altogether—this alone can dramatically update a room’s aesthetic.
Pro tip: Add table and floor lamps to layer your lighting and create a cozy, inviting vibe.
Related Reading: Preparing your home to sell
2. Cabinetry: Update Drawer Pulls/Door Handles & Paint
Outdated kitchen or bathroom cabinets? New drawer pulls and door handles are an easy fix. Choose finishes that match your style—whether you love sleek modern lines or rustic farmhouse vibes. Bonus points for swapping out your faucet to match for a cohesive look!
Not ready to replace your cabinets? Paint them! This DIY project saves thousands and can completely refresh your space. Browse online tutorials and ask your local paint store for the best tools and products.
Related Reading: Steps to Buy a House
3. Paint, White-Wash, or Add Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
A fresh coat of paint (or white-washing dated stone features) can instantly modernize your space. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is another great tool—it’s easy to install and remove, and it adds personality without commitment.
Money-saving tip: Check the “Oops!” paint section at your hardware store for discounted gallons returned by other customers. You might just find the perfect color at a fraction of the price.
Related Reading: Inexpensive Home Improvement Projects
4. Add Stylish Window Treatments
Curtains are an easy way to add color, texture, or pattern—and they can soften the look of any room. No need for custom drapes! Retailers like Target, HomeGoods, and Walmart offer beautiful options at great prices.
Make sure to measure your windows carefully. Curtains that gently touch the floor give a clean, polished, and current look.
5. Clean—Like, Really Clean
Sometimes, the best makeover is a deep clean. Scrub the baseboards, wash the walls, shampoo the carpets, and polish the floors. You’ll be surprised how much fresher and more inviting your home feels. A clean home is not only more beautiful—it feels better to live in.
You don’t need a full remodel to create a space you love. Start small by tackling one project at a time. Focus on what matters most to you, and you’ll add comfort, value, and personality to your home along the way.
Thinking about buying or selling a home? Contact us! We’re here to help!
