DIY to Improve Your Home on a Budget

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Turn on the television and you’ll find many home improvement programs. From a new paint color to a new backyard, there are many things you can do to your home. Depending on your skill level and the amount you want to invest, you may be able to make improvements at a fraction of the cost it would take to hire a professional. Here are a few things to consider before you begin any DIY project:

Simple, cost-effective DIY projects can reap significant value.
Making additions that open up your home without adding square footage can pay dividends over time. Enlarging your front door, adding french doors to your patio or even removing a non-load bearing wall to open up your family room are all relatively simple updates you can do that will add immediate value to your home.

Making your home more energy efficient is always a good thing.
Replacing inefficient appliances, heating and air conditioning systems or old windows for more energy-efficient ones can help you save money. Plus, you’ll make your home more attractive and potentially increase the value of your home.

Cosmetic DIY projects make an immediate impact on the value of your home.
Some common cosmetic DIY projects that might add value to your home would be:

  • Repairing and painting interior walls,
  • Adding ceiling fans in place of standard lighting fixtures,
  • Updating standard fixtures such as faucets, lights, switches and cabinet handles,
  • Cleaning/power washing exterior walls and surfaces, and
  • Adding or upgrading landscaping.

These changes can be done easily without much out-of-pocket cost. However, if you want to tackle a larger project and need some help covering the costs, consider a home equity line of credit from BancorpSouth. You can use the equity in your home to make the improvements you want and possibly increase the value of your home at the same time.