Home Makeovers: 35+ Upgrade Ideas That Are Worth The Investment
When you own a house, there’s a constant quest to improve its value, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. It doesn’t matter if you live in a small apartment or a vast estate; we all want to create a home that not only reflects our personal style but also proves to be a smart investment in the long run.
With so many options, though, how do you decide where to start? Well, don’t worry about it! It doesn’t matter if you want to make modest changes or major overhauls in your house; we’re here to inspire you to leave your couch, close the numerous boards and ideas you’ve saved, and finally start that project you’ve been dreaming of all these years!
Do you want to simply change your décor? Done. Improve your bar area? Done. Learn ways to make your house cozier in winter? Done! Here are 45 home improvement ideas that really pay off.
Window film
When you move to a house surrounded by big windows, you quickly realize just how bright the days can be and how nosy most neighbors are. Some people are fine living like this, but if you’re not, the solution might be simpler than you think!
We’re talking about window films. There are many types available, with tinted and reflexive ones being the most popular. Not only do they help improve energy efficiency in your house, but they also increase your privacy by making it harder to see inside.
Double & triple-pane windows
It doesn’t matter if you are in the office or just chilling at home; no one enjoys being bothered by outside noise. So, if you live or work in a particularly noisy neighborhood, investing in double or even triple-pane windows is a must!
This type of window has many advantages. Not only do they provide superior insulation to your home, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, but they also help minimize noise from outside. Not a cheap investment, but it’s totally worth it!
Under cabinet lights
When it comes to upgrading your house, not everything has to be about functionality only. Sometimes, we just need a touch of new life and beauty around, and that’s totally fine. Take under cabinet lights for your kitchen, for example.
These lights are super popular nowadays, and while they do provide a little bit more visibility in your kitchen, especially if you’re using your counters, they’re there mostly for aesthetics. As we said, that’s absolutely fine. We all deserve pretty houses, after all!
Extra insulation
This one may not be that cheap, but it can be installed fairly easily if you’re handy, and it will make a world of difference in your house, especially if you live somewhere on the colder side. We’re talking about proper insulation, of course.
Not everyone cares about insulating their attics or basements, mainly because these rooms are rarely used, and the costs can build up fast. However, doing so will definitely improve your home life. There will be less noise from the outside, and your indoor temperature will stay consistent.
Silicone pads
With how easy it is to accidentally slam your cabinet doors and drawers, you’d think manufacturers would have thought of a permanent solution by now. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. If you don’t want to cough up hundreds of dollars for new hardware, silicone pads are your friends!
These little pads were made for this exact situation. They’re cheap, self-adhesive, can be found pretty much anywhere, and can easily be placed on cabinet doors and drawers all over your house to avoid accidental slams. Say goodbye to loud noises and damage!
Motion-activated light bulb
Have you ever gone for a night out only to return to a completely dark house because no one was around to turn on your porch light? It always makes it harder to find your keys and get into your home, right?
Well, with this quick and easy home upgrade, you won’t ever have to worry about getting home to a pitch-black porch ever again! It’s a motion-activated light bulb that you can install pretty much anywhere you want. Taking notes already? Great!
Heated flooring
If you’re already in the process of renovating your house and don’t mind spending a few more thousands, we cannot recommend this upgrade enough. It’s definitely not cheap, but it’s totally worth it! We’re talking about heated flooring, of course. Especially in the bathroom!
This investment is perfect for those who live in colder regions, as it evenly distributes heat in a room, making your house cozier. We guarantee your pets will love it as well, and if the pets are happy, who cares about money, right?
Slightly bent pin
Some upgrades are more expensive than others, but we guarantee are as cheap as this one. It literally costs 0 dollars and only takes about a minute or so to implement. It solves the problem of doors that close by themselves.
This is an old trick, but not everyone is aware of it. If you want to stop your doors from closing themselves, slightly bend the middle hinge pin with a hammer. Your doors will still work as usual but won’t close out of nowhere again.
Nicer showerhead
Most people take at least one or two showers a day, but that doesn’t mean that showering has to be a simple cleaning routine for your body, especially at home, where you’re supposed to relax and forget about the day’s troubles.
If you’re sick and tired of your old showerhead, investing in a new, nicer one is an excellent way to improve your quality of life. It also helps reduce your water bill as newer ones usually have a more efficient water flow than older, cheaper models.
Bidet
While these are not very popular in the United States, their benefits have been well-known throughout Europe and Asia for decades. We are, of course, talking about bidets. Some may think they are gross or impractical, but that’s not true.
They’re not inappropriate at all. In fact, they are much more hygienic and effective than toilet paper. Not only that, but they’re also eco-friendly and super cost-effective in the long run. If you install one, you’ll feel fresher than ever, and you’ll never go back!
Outlets everywhere
If you have ever lived in an older house with limited outlets, then you know just how much of a game-changer it can be to have an abundance of them scattered throughout. Living room, bathroom, kitchen, even hallways, they should be everywhere!
So, if you’re planning on renovating your house, make sure to incorporate plenty of outlets. Believe us, this is the kind of upgrade that, no matter the cost, the more will always be the merrier! Your guests will thank you.
Silent microwave
If you think about it, microwave ovens are one of the best kitchen appliances to ever be created. Not only do they heat up food really fast, but you can also use them to cook some meals, from breakfast to dinner!
The only issue most people have with them is how loud their beeps are. If your model has no mute button, try pressing the 0 key for a few seconds. That should silence your microwave right away! Midnight snacks for the win!
Over-the-sink dish rack
This one is for those of you with small kitchens and not a whole lot of counter space. You don’t have to waste the minimal space you have with bulky dish racks. All you need to do is get an over-the-sink one.
These dish racks come in many shapes and forms, with the most popular one being one that’s installed inside the cabinet itself. These racks are popular in Europe, but we believe they’d fit right in pretty much anywhere else in the world!
Security cameras
It doesn’t matter where you live; having an extra layer of security in your house is never a bad idea. This is especially important if you live on a big property, with spots you can’t easily see from your windows. The best investment in this situation is security cameras.
These devices will make your house safer and give you peace of mind no matter where you are since you will be able to watch every corner of your property live, with high-quality video, using nothing but your smartphone or personal computer.
Smart doorbell
When it comes to security systems for your house, nothing beats a smart doorbell. These devices have become extremely popular because not only are they super convenient, but they also make your home feel much safer as well. We bet they’re on your list!
They are a combination of a regular doorbell with a built-in camera, microphone, and smartphone connection. This means you can see, hear, and speak with whoever is at your door from wherever you are, using nothing but your smartphone. No more porch pirates!
House plants
There are times in our lives when we look around and get frustrated about how boring our houses are. Well, if this is happening to you right now, you can always try and improve your décor. One of the best ways to do this is with house plants!
The list of benefits house plants bring to your home is long. Basically, they not only vastly improve the looks of your place, but having plants and taking care of them also adds an excellent boost to your body and mind’s health!
Premium mattress
Trouble sleeping? There may be many reasons for that. Maybe your body is not doing too well, maybe you’re too stressed, or maybe your mattress sucks. We can’t help with the first two, but if your mattress is subpar, you should consider buying a premium one.
No, it’s not a scam. Most of the time. If you do your research right, you’ll soon be sleeping like a baby. It may be a big purchase, considering the prices, but you shouldn’t let anything get between you and a good night’s sleep!
Floor registers
Floor registers are an essential component when it comes to HVAC systems. They come in many different shapes and forms but basically do the same job. These essential devices help to circulate both warm and cool air around your house.
They don’t all have to look boring, though, especially if you have just moved into a new house. Exchanging the old floor registers with new ones that better match your style is a fantastic way to improve your décor and change things around a bit!
Roomba
Let’s be honest for a moment. No one – and we do mean no one – enjoys sweeping, moping, or vacuuming their homes. It’s a lot of hard work for relatively little reward, after all, and we all have better things to do with our precious time.
That’s why one of the best investments you can make is to get yourself a Roomba. Just set it up, and your house will forever be clean! And don’t worry about having accidents with your pets’ poo; newer models know how to avoid them!
Automatic curtains
We all know how hard it is to get up in the morning and start your day, especially when it’s cold outside, and the bed is super cozy and comfortable. One way you can help minimize morning laziness is by installing automatic curtains in your bedroom.
This device works by automatically opening your curtains as soon as the sun is out. This way, you will wake up relaxed, with no loud alarms, and your body will know right away it’s time to get up and get ready for the day!
Covered porches
Covered porches are definitely not a cheap investment, but they are absolutely worth it if you have the money and space to build one. This extension to your house is the perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor charm, after all!
Not only do they protect you from the elements, such as rain, sunlight, or snow, but they also allow you to enjoy the outdoors and entertain your guests comfortably. Definitely a buy once, cry once, enjoy it forever kind of investment!
Tool kit
If you have ever needed a simple tool for a random project at home and found yourself shorthanded, you will agree with our assertion. Everyone, and we do mean everyone, should have a toolbox at home with some simple, essential tools.
We’re talking about electric drills and a variety of drill bits, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, saws, and measuring tools. You get the idea. A basic tool kit is essential for any homeowner out there, even if you don’t plan on using it.
Silent exhaust fans
If you live somewhere where humidity is a problem, then you’re aware of how important exhaust fans are, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. They help maintain air quality and remove moisture from our houses. The only problem is they are loud!
You don’t have to settle for your loud exhaust fans, though. There are a bunch of models out there that work just the same but very silently. Some of them even have a dB rate as low as 6dB, if you can believe it!
Sunrise alarm clock
With how fast-paced our lives have become in the past couple of decades, sometimes it’s easy to forget that life is not about jumping out of bed and going through your day like you’re in a race. It’s actually good for you to wake up slowly, you know.
That’s why you should get yourself a sunrise alarm clock. This type of alarm clock is different from the others because it doesn’t make any noise. Instead, it gradually brightens its rays, mimicking the rising sun. Waking up has never felt so good!
Bathroom dehumidifier
Sometimes, depending on where you live and the amount of hot water you use in your showers, the fight against mold in the bathroom is an uphill battle. There are many tricks you can use to solve this problem, but one that definitely works is getting a dehumidifier.
If you can, get a small, silent one that can fit anywhere. Using them in your bathroom not only helps prevent mold and mildew growth but also creates a nicer environment and preserves your bathroom structure, your towels, and your toiletries, extending their lifespan.
New paint
Looking at the same decorations every day becomes boring. Unfortunately, as much as you may want to change things around, you may not always have the means to do so. You don’t have to do too much to refresh your décor, though. Sometimes, all your house needs is a fresh coat of paint!
If you already have the tools and you don’t mind getting dirty, this task becomes much cheaper. You need time and patience, of course, but think about the money you’ll save and the satisfaction you’ll have after you’re done putting your vision into the world!
Prepaid HVAC maintenance
We all know that ensuring your home’s HVAC system runs efficiently all year round is crucial for both your safety and comfort. But sadly, sometimes life gets in the way, and it becomes super easy to forget to maintain them.
In such situations, you should really consider setting up prepaid scheduled maintenance visits for your house. This way, you won’t run the risk of forgetting about it until it’s too late. Your HVAC system will always work efficiently, and its lifespan will be extended.
Oiled up hinges
No matter how well-built a house may be, after a few decades, they all start to develop their own quirks here and there. That’s totally normal, of course, but if you have just moved into an older house, you may not like some of those quirks.
The best thing you can do is to try to fix as many issues as possible. You can start by oiling up all your doors and windows hinges and tighten up the handles and knobs. Believe it or not, that makes a world of difference!
Hood vent to the outside
If you enjoy cooking and spend most of your days in the kitchen, you’re probably well aware of how inefficient regular hood vents are. Most of the time, they don’t do their work properly, and you end up with a kitchen full of smoke.
An upgrade you can install in your house is a hood vent that exhausts to the outside. Sure, they’re more expensive and harder to install, but once you’re done, your kitchen will remain odorless, and the air quality will be much better, even after cooking a lot.
Smart thermostat
As you become older, shifts in body temperature tend to happen much more frequently than in the past, especially if you are a woman. Having quick access to your thermostat in these situations is life-changing. That’s why smart thermostats are so cool!
These devices are connected to your house’s Wi-Fi, and you can change the temperature by simply using an app on your phone or computer. You can also set up schedules, and newer models even have the ability to learn from your preferences and adapt by themselves!
Blackout curtains
Sleeping problems are terrible for a multitude of reasons, but the biggest one is that they tend to bleed into your active hours, making life miserable for you. A fantastic way to minimize this is to introduce blackout curtains to all living areas of your house.
This type of curtain is great for every room in your house. In bedrooms, for example, they provide optimal darkness for a restful sleep, while everywhere else, their insulating properties help regulate room temperature, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Faucet aerators
When it comes to improving your house, there are many things you can do. You can tear down half your walls, repaint what’s left, and install smart devices everywhere, for example. You can also simply replace your old faucet aerators.
Believe it or not, this small change will make an astronomical difference around your house, especially if you live somewhere with hard water. Old and clogged aerators don’t work properly, after all, and that’s why you may think your water pressure is bad.
Soft closing lid
We have all been there – it’s late at night, and you wanted to use the toilet quickly before jumping back into bed. Unfortunately, you forgot to be gentle and ended up slamming the lid down too hard, and now your whole family is awake and angry!
Well, to placate the wife and make your trips to the bathroom much quieter, you should definitely invest in some soft-closing toilet lids. Not only will they ensure there’s peace and quiet at home, but they’re also much safer for the kids.
Washer-dryer
It doesn’t matter where you live; sometimes, you simply don’t have the space or the means to get both a washer and a dryer to use at home. Dragging your dirty clothes to the laundromat is hard work as well, especially during winter. So what should you do?
You could simply get yourself a washer-dryer, of course. It’s cheaper than buying both appliances separately and takes up less space. This is the perfect solution if you’re tired of hand-washing your clothes or dragging them to the closest laundromat.
Door handles
When it comes to door hardware, doorknobs are the standard pretty much everywhere. And if you are someone with mobility issues or if you always have your hands full for some reason, you’re aware of how little practicality they offer in your day-to-day life.
A little upgrade you should consider in these situations is door handles. Not only are they super in right now, but they’re also incredibly practical and much easier to use than traditional doorknobs, making entering and leaving a room a breeze!
Slide-out garbage cupboards
If you have a family and a house to take care of, you probably spend most of your time in the kitchen. If that’s the case, then you’re probably well aware of the amount of garbage you need to dispose of every couple of days.
If you don’t have enough floor space for big garbage bins in your kitchen, you are better off installing slide-out cupboards for them! This way, you will save time and space and won’t have to look at garbage as you cook and do chores around your kitchen.
Pull-out kitchen cabinets
This one is not very common, but those who have installed them swear by their usefulness. We’re talking about pull-out kitchen cabinets. We bet you’ve probably never heard of them before, but they’re becoming more popular with each passing day!
These cabinets are awesome not only because of how they look but also because they maximize space utilization, making it much easier to store and access your pots, pans, food items, and other kitchen essentials. They’re perfect for those with little space in their kitchens!
Roll-out shelves
If you’re tired of losing food to too-deep cabinets in your kitchen, this next upgrade is for you. We’re talking about roll-out shelves! They’re especially useful if you don’t have a pantry at home and want to maximize your storage space.
The best part about this particular house upgrade is that, as much as you can pay someone to make one, if you have the tools and the willingness to put in the work, you can absolutely build it yourself! A wonderful weekend project if you ask us.
Automatic litterbox
If you have pets, sometimes the best home upgrades you can get are not for yourself but for them. If you have cats, for example, an automatic litterbox is essential if you want to improve the quality of both your and their day-to-day life.
These smart litterboxes detect when your cat has used them and automatically scoop away their waste, keeping your house odor-free and your hands clean. You’ll only have to worry about cat poo or pee once a week when you empty the litterbox storage. Easy peasy.
Carpet trick
This one is for those of you who have carpeting in your house and it isn’t looking as good as it should be. Lumps and rolls in your carpet are not only a tripping hazard, but they also shorten your carpet’s lifespan. There is a solution, though!
Did you know you can get your carpet stretched again? It’s true! It’s cheaper and much easier than replacing everything, and it will make your house look much better in the end. It’s an inexpensive and functional investment, just how we like them!
Water bypass
When it comes to house improvement, a water bypass system might not be the most talked-about feature, but it sure is a valuable one, especially if you live somewhere with colder weather. With this system in place, you won’t ever have to worry about frozen pipes.
That’s because it keeps the water circulating inside your pipes at all times, with no extra costs to you. Additionally, if you have any sort of plumbing issue, the water bypass reroutes the water flow, preventing damage and keeping your household running.
Art
A simple yet super effective way to upgrade your house and give it a unique touch that screams of your personality is to decorate your rooms with works of art and pictures. And we’re not talking about expensive art either!
If you or someone who lives with you paints, for example, try using the paintings as décor. Or simply buy art from friends, family, or artists from your region. You can even select some pictures you have on your phone and have them printed!
Insulated garage doors
This one may not be the cheapest upgrade, but it sure is important. When it comes to insulating your house, not everyone thinks about their garage. That’s a big mistake, especially if you live in a region where it gets super cold.
Investing in quality insulated garage doors will make a world of difference to your house. Not only will they ensure that your car and stored belongings are protected during winter, but they will also help conserve energy and act as effective noise barriers.
Smart garage door opener
Gone are the days when you had to leave your car to open your garage doors. Nowadays, with a simple press of a button, your garage doors open. As long as you are in range, of course. But did you know things can get even more convenient?
We’re talking about smart garage door openers. These are super easy to install and not only allow you to open and close your garage doors from anywhere using your smartphone or even your voice, but they also notify you when the doors open. Super practical and safe!
Glass rinser
If you are young and share a house with a bunch of roommates, or if you simply enjoy having people over for small parties and get-togethers, this one is for you. We’re talking about a glass rinser for your kitchen, of course!
These appliances, often used in bars or pubs, are getting more and more popular in regular houses. That’s because they use high-pressure jets of water to rinse glasses, leaving them sparkling clean and ready to use in seconds! Definitely a host’s dream!