(NC) With the cost of living on the rise, many homeowners are skipping big renovations and opting for smaller, smarter updates instead. A few DIY refreshes can make your home feel brand new, create a great space for summer hosting and even add value, all without breaking the bank.
Something to note: Some major updates can affect your home's replacement value, so you should check with your insurer before starting. Some providers, such as Belairdirect, have apps that let you review your coverage, get a quote in minutes and make updates easily, all from your phone. That way, you can move forward with confidence and get straight to the fun part:
- Give your space an instant facelift. You don’t need a full renovation to make your home feel fresh. A coat of paint or swapping outdated cabinet hardware, door handles and light fixtures can make a big visual impact and are easy to do yourself.
- Set the mood with smarter lighting. Good lighting changes how a space looks and feels. You can get brighter, longer-lasting light at a lower energy cost by replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs. Outside, solar pathway lights or string lights can instantly create a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for that casual summer get-together.
- Create your own backyard retreat. Pick one area and make it feel like an extension of your home. You can add shade with a canopy or umbrella, bring in comfortable seating, lay down an outdoor rug to define the space and add planters or flowers for a pop of colour.
- Keep the cool air in. Check windows, doors and doorframes for small gaps that let cool air escape. Weatherstripping or caulking is a simple, affordable fix that helps keep your home comfortable year-round. A programmable thermostat can also help manage heating and cooling automatically when you're not home.
With a little creativity and a weekend or two, you can make your home feel like new again. Find more home tips at belairdirect.com.
