Redo Your Space for Under $500

Creating a new look for your space can cost a lot of money. Remodeling projects may even run the consumer into the thousands. If you only want to change the look and don't have any structuring issues that would require remodeling, you may want to consider redoing the room yourself. These do it yourself tips were created for the person who wants to spend $500 or less in redoing a room.

Cabinets are one of the things that can cost you the most money. Instead of buying new ones, update them. Updating cabinets is often simple to do. The details, such as the knobs can change the entire look and can be done in minutes. Most knobs can be twisted on or off cabinet doors without any tools. You can find knobs at any hardware store or in the home section of some retailers. Pricing starts at a couple of dollars a piece, on up to the more pricey ones. If you feel you would like to do more, try a fresh coat of paint or resurfacing the cabinets. However, this may require a little more work and know how.

Lighting can be everything. If your goal is to change the lighting, try changing the light fixtures. Light fixtures can be found at Wal Mart, K Mart, Lowe's, or hardware stores. Prices for a nice light fixture start at about $50, I would plan on spending about $100 to $200 if changing multiple fixtures. Changing them out does require contact with electrical wires,if you don't know how to do this I would seek out someone that does. Never attempt to do anything regarding electrical wires with the power on, as it is dangerous. Other than this, it doesn't take long to change the fixtures themselves. If you really want to brighten up the room, add a fresh coat of paint to the ceiling. This helps brighten up any room.

Flooring is typically though of as the big ticket item, but it doesn't have to be. If you are interested in replacing the carpet, the amount it is going to cost will depend on the size of the room. A good alternative to completely changing it out is to add an area rug. Area rugs are cheaper and more versatile. If you decide that you don't like it, all you have to do is roll it up and take it out. They come in various size dimensions and can be bought almost anywhere. I have seen them as cheap as $60 and up to $200 at many retailers. Still, if you don't want to pay this much, area rugs can even be found at the dollar store. Those considering non carpet flooring may want to check on linoleum. It's less costly than carpet, comes in various designs such as the stone or hard wood look, and doesn't require a lot of maintenance.

Walls and shelves are very easy to work with. Drywall is easily painted, any type of holes from paintings can be repaired with putty or similar materials. Paneling may become dull looking over time, usually cleaning the area helps. If you have wood paneling use a cleaning product that restores shine. Make sure that you are using the appropriate cleaner for the surface. Cleaning costs generally nothing, other than the price of the cleaner being used. Shelves may be added for style or storage space. Rather than have them custom built, I recommend corner shelves. You can move them as needed and they are much easier to clean. That, and you can get them for around $20 starting prices. There are also the shelves that are hung on the wall. Which ever you choose, both are easy to put up and will save you money.

If remodeling is too costly for you, give these tips a try. You will be amazed at how these little changes can improve the feel of your home. Make sure that you read all instructions before beginning any of these projects. Don't hesitate to ask someone if you are having problems. Creating an atmosphere that you live for under $500 can be done.