The past year has us all taking a second look at our homes and finding ways to improve them. But renovations don’t always have to have big-budget price tags. One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is paint.
If your home needs a little TLC, here are just a few ways you can freshen things up with a coat of paint.
Turn a “negative” into a “positive”
Every home has its quirks, but expensive structural changes don’t have to be the answer. Paint is a simple, inexpensive solution that can help problem areas without tearing down and erecting walls.
If you have rooms that feel cramped or small, changing the wall color can make a world of difference. White, cream, or lighter colors can help make rooms look bigger because of reflected light.
If you have the opposite problem—maybe your room seems cavernous—warm colors will help make a room feel more cozy and approachable.
Update worn-out features
If your kitchen needs a refresh, simply painting the cabinet hardware can provide a brand-new look without much labor or cost involved.
New cabinet hardware can range from $1 to more than $200 per piece. However, one can of spray paint (under $10) can completely transform kitchen hardware. You can also use spray paint to modernize old light fixtures for a fraction of what it would cost to replace them.
You can also give old furniture new life with a fresh coat of paint. A coffee table, dresser, end table, even wicker or metal patio furniture…it can all look brand new with just a little elbow grease.
Spruce up curb appeal
A bright front door jazzes up your exterior and gives your home a welcoming vibe. A pop of color can be a great complement to a neutral siding.
And don’t forget the garage door. Front-facing garage doors can account for a large chunk of curb appeal. Doors that have seen better days can get a big transformation from a painting or staining.
Have some fun
Because paint is relatively inexpensive, it’s okay to experiment with something fun and trendy, especially if you aren’t planning to sell anytime soon.
Designers say that dark, moody hues are in, especially when juxtaposed with lighter colors in adjacent rooms. And if you are looking for a more neutral look, the experts suggest a warmer white.
You can also have some fun with exterior paint. Outdoor stenciling has become extremely popular and can be used to revamp a patio, deck, wooden fence, or pathway. There are hundreds of patterns available online including herringbone brick, sunburst, trellis, Moroccan tile, geometric shapes, and more.
For more home improvement tips follow the Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS® on Facebook or the blog at www.lansing-realestate.com.
