Aha, home renovation. It is like the confetti of adulthood – exciting at first, but then sticking to everything and never going away.
You have big dreams of a Pinterest-worthy kitchen and end up weeping over receipts, wondering why you thought “open concept” meant anything but “open wallet.”
However, don’t forget the ones that matter when you are busy slapping new colors on walls or choosing cushions.
Below are some of the most overlooked house projects that should be attended to according to three renovation specialists who probably haven’t wept over a Home Depot bill in ages.
1. Windows Update
I get it, new windows aren’t as fun as artisanal subway tile backsplashes. However, hear me out on this one. Getting rid of your old windows can cost more than therapy but it’s worth it.
Not only do they increase energy efficiency but also change them from looking like haunted Victorian mansions into cozy homes.
Furthermore, they assist with soundproofing saving you from constant leaf-blowing noise coming from your neighbor’s compound.
Teifke advises: “Think about changing those single-paned archaic structures with double-pane gas-filled versions that could very well be right at home in a superhero comic- argon or krypton.”
These not only insulate better but also block external noise too.” And oh yes there might be rebates or grants to help ease the pain of such an expensive upgrade if you’re lucky.
2. Update Old Electrical
It’s time for an overhaul if your electrical system dates back further than you do. Most people wait until something sparks (literally) before addressing it but don’t fall into that category.
Older houses especially those with sketchy DIY additions sometimes come complete with electrical systems that are as dependable as a crowded coffee shop Wi-Fi connection.
“Updating your electrical system is crucial,” says Teifke. It could involve anything from swapping outdated outlets and switches to fitting an improved, more energy efficient system.” Not only does this avert potential electrical mishaps it also makes your home more energy efficient.
And that means saving money in the long run, which you can then spend on more exciting things, like those artisanal tiles.
3. Light Fixtures Upgrade
We’re going to talk about light fixtures. Unless you are knee-deep in a major remodel, those sad outdated things hanging from your ceiling are probably the last thing on your mind.
But guess what? Swapping out old light fixtures is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to give your space a facelift. Think of it as the makeover montage in every romantic comedy—quick, satisfying, and transformative.
Proper lighting can make a dungeon feel like a palace. It brightens up the space, makes it more inviting, and might even make you forget about that weird stain on the carpet.
Think of hosting a dinner party underneath the subtle illumination of modern pendant lamps rather than the harshness of a fluorescent monster of light.
You can definitely count on Jealousy from your friends while basking in the glory that you did it without cracking your account.
4. Update Hardware
Small as hardware might seem, these little knobs and handles are like jewelry for your house. They make an outfit great or not, just as they do for a living space.
The majority of houses come with “builder grade” hardware which means “dull and inexpensive.” Simply upgrade your hardware and achieve a luxurious feel in an affordable way.
Molly McGinness is a designer at Molly McGinness Interior Design. She explains, “This is something that tends to be ‘builder grade’ in homes that aren’t custom and is an easy change-up.”
Pick a new style or finish for your hardware to have a more elevated and bespoke look at home. This is similar to getting a haircut, it’s subtle but has everyone staring.
“This is something that tends to be ‘builder grade’ in homes that aren’t custom and is an easy change-up,” says Molly McGinness, owner of Molly McGinness Interior Design.
Think of it as getting a new haircut—it’s subtle, but everyone notices.
“Just don’t forget to change out the hinges to match!” Don’t mix up mismatched hardware because nothing screams ‘I know what I’m doing’ than this.
5. Upgrade Your HVAC System
An unsung hero of home comfort – HVAC system! Usually, we forget about this workhorse until it breaks down during a heatwave or polar vortex.
However, trust me—you should upgrade your HVAC before it quits entirely. It’s akin to taking the flu vaccine. “Upgrading your HVAC is crucial,” says Matt Teifke, founder and CEO of Teifke Real Estate. “
Can you imagine a world where your house is always 72 degrees and your utility bill doesn’t make you cry? It’s possible, and it starts with a little HVAC TLC.
While you’re at it, have a licensed HVAC technician look at your ductwork. Properly installed and efficient ductwork can make a big difference in how well your system performs. Think of it as giving your home a cardiovascular check-up.
Could this be the fix that would allow your existing AC and furnace to work properly or enable new systems to operate more efficiently? By the way, casual conversation could include phrases like “ductwork optimization.”
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So while you’re busy daydreaming about open-concept kitchens and spa-like bathrooms, don’t forget those practical upgrades that keep our homes running smoothly because as much as we love a good backsplash, it won’t keep you warm in the winter or cool in the summer. Good luck!