If you’re like most people who endure cold winters, you’ve been spending a lot of time indoors due to the cold weather. Even though Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring, there are several more weeks of winter to get through before we start seeing signs of warmer weather. Before you sit back down on the couch to watch TV, why not change up your daily routine of channel surfing by working on your house? You are stuck inside anyway, so what better time than now to tackle some of those household projects you’ve wanted to accomplish but haven't yet tackled. When the warmer weather arrives, you'll be glad you completed a project or two. Here are some suggestions to make an impact on your living space without breaking the bank.
Spending time indoors makes you notice things throughout your home that could use some TLC. One such item is flooring. Carpet may need more than a deep clean vacuuming. New flooring is a great project because it can instantly increase the comfort and beauty of your home. Whether you choose carpet, hardwoods, laminate or tile, flooring can greatly improve the visual appearance inside your living space. Don't want to spring for new flooring? Replacing rugs is a less costly way to make some changes with aesthetic appeal.
By the time the warmer weather arrives, you will be sprinting outdoors for fresh air and sunshine. The last thing you want to do is spring cleaning. Take the time you have now to get organized. Devote some time every week todeclutter one room or area at a time. There's nothing like getting rid of the things you accumulate and don't use. You will be pleasantly surprised by the amount of space you can create by decluttering. Decluttering also creates the perfect opportunity to rearrange furnishings and create a "new look". A great way to start this project is with a closet makeover. If you create a place to put everything, you might be more likely to put things away. Installing shelving and purchasing over-the-door racks and plastic storage containers are simple ways to organize closets. As you declutter, donate your unused and unwanted items to charity. The recipients will be appreciative and your receipt will provide you with a tax-deductible donation.
Is your shower outdated? Do you have gunky grout that needs a good scrub? Bathrooms are a great project because you can appreciate your handiwork every day. Updates such as repainting, re-grouting, replacing fixtures or a vanity, and adding decorative shelving or accents will add sparkle to a bathroom.
Another project that can greatly enhance your home is fresh paint. Walls become soiled, stained. chipped and colors become outdated. Wallpaper, borders and paneling, while popular in the past, have become passe. Neutral colored walls are a fantastic project which will greatly enhance your home.
Adding personality to the kitchen is always a great idea. Spruce up your kitchen and add style without going overboard. Adding a back-splash enhances the visual appeal (and reduces areas that need to be painted). Other ways to add appeal include changing the hardware on cabinets, painting cabinet doors, and cleaning out the refrigerator.
Home improvement projects, while sometimes perceived as a chore, enhance the condition, appeal and value of homes. Whether the project is small or large, easy or more difficult, inexpensive or more costly, there's always a great feeling when the project is completed. Pick one and get started before spring officially arrives.
Melissa E. Spittel
Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Homesale Realty
411 Malcolm Drive
Westminster, MD 21157
(O) 410-876-3500 / (C) 443-375-6631
"Helping You Make The Right Move"
