Make an old house look new by improving its curb appeal.
As homes age they can become a little worn around the edges. Even with regular maintenance, there comes a time when your home will need a face lift. Giving your home a fresher, more contemporary look adds to resale value as well as curb appeal. With just a few easy and economical changes you can give your home new life. If your budget allows, make the type of permanent changes that buyers are looking for and that your family will enjoy as well.
Instructions
1. Freshen up your home's interior with paint. Choose pastel colors that lighten and brighten your rooms or opt for subdued earth tones to make them cozier. Draw attention to your windows and doors with newly painted trim.
2. Update the kitchen. Give your kitchen cupboards a new lease on life with a coat of paint or replace them entirely. Switch out the outdated hardware for new, more contemporary designs. Replace a worn vinyl floor with hardwood or tile. Buy new appliances. Opt for stainless steel for a sleek, up to date look. Install new counter tops and back splashes. Choose granite, solid surface or high end laminate. Replace your window treatments with some that are fresh and clean that coordinate with your decorating style. Add an island if you don't have one and space permits. Install new light fixtures, including under the cupboard task lighting.
3. Give the bathroom a face lift. Remove worn flooring and replace it with granite or marble tile. Opt for ceramic tile or vinyl if you are on a tighter budget. Switch out faucets and drawer pulls and handles. Paint the walls and add bead board or tile for dimension. Clean the tub and shower until they shine. Discard old shower curtains, window treatments, towels and rugs in favor of new ones. Install new fixtures. Opt for a soaker or claw foot tub and separate steam shower if your budget and square footage permits.
4. Replace the carpets. Pull up worn, soiled plush wall to wall carpet. Replace it with new carpet in more contemporary materials like coir or a tighter weave like Berber. You can also install new hardwood or tile floors dotted with area rugs instead.
5. Dress the windows. Use streamlined Roman shades or grommet topped curtains hung on a wooden or wrought iron rod.
6. Switch out dated hollow core doors for solid wood paneled styles. Update existing doors with new knobs and hinges.
7. Paint the exterior or opt for new siding. Install replacement windows. Enhance them with new shutters. Wash existing windows and replace any broken or cracked panes to freshen up the look of your house.
8. Swap out your old front door for a new more energy efficient one that coordinates with your house's architectural style or paint the existing door and change the hardware. Replace dated outdoor lighting with a more contemporary style.
9. Clean and seal an old deck and replace any broken boards.
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