Bought a Fixer Upper House? Here Are 5 Expert Tips

Many people buy fixer-uppers because they’re a more affordable way to enter the housing market. According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, nearly 75% of homebuyers would consider a fixer-upper to cut costs. However, the real challenge comes after the purchase—figuring out which renovations to prioritize, especially on a tight budget. As real estate agent David Bates puts it, “To buy a fixer-upper, you need to have a lot of drive to keep the process moving and see it through.”

With the average cost of necessary repairs reaching around $13,000 and practical upgrades adding another $6,000, it’s crucial to prioritize the suitable projects to get the best value and create a comfortable living space.

So, where should you begin? Below are five key projects that deliver the most value and impact, helping you turn your house into a home without blowing your budget.

Upgrade the Kitchen

Kitchens are often the most expensive room to renovate, but with good reason—they’re the heart of the home. Whether it’s cooking meals, entertaining guests, or gathering with family, the kitchen plays a central role in daily life. That’s why prioritizing a kitchen upgrade can offer immediate lifestyle benefits and a strong return on investment when it comes time to sell. Fortunately, a kitchen remodel doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag.

One of the easiest ways to refresh your kitchen on a budget is to focus on the cabinets. If your existing cabinets are still in good shape, simply painting or refinishing them can give the space an updated look for a fraction of the cost of a complete replacement. This upgrade typically runs between $2,500 and $3,500, making it a cost-effective way to breathe new life into your kitchen.

For cabinets that need more than a simple facelift, consider refacing them by replacing the doors. This option offers a fresh, modern look without the expense of entirely new cabinetry and typically costs $5,000 to $7,000.

Additionally, you can save on countertops by sourcing materials from warehouses or discount shops instead of pricey showrooms. This approach can significantly cut costs, allowing you to install new granite or other high-quality materials without overspending.

Smart shopping for fixtures and appliances from high-volume stores can help homeowners finance these upgrades. Moreover, options like taking a loan from pension plan can offer an alternative way to fund renovations without dipping into other savings.

Freshen Up Rooms with Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to update your home. It can brighten a room, change the mood, and make spaces feel larger. Plus, it’s affordable whether you do it yourself or hire someone.

Painting is a quick way to refresh a room that feels outdated. Neutral colors like gray, beige, or off-white give a modern, cohesive look. To add personality, try an accent wall in bold colors like navy blue or dark green to create a focal point.

Don’t forget about doors, trim, and cabinets, which also benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Proper prep, such as sanding and priming, will ensure the paint job looks professional and lasts. This simple upgrade can make your home feel new as you work on more extensive renovations.

Fix Ceilings and Drywall

Outdated ceilings, like popcorn texture, can make a home look old, and cracks in drywall or damaged ceilings can add to a neglected feel. Fixing these not only improves appearance but also makes future updates easier.

Removing popcorn ceilings can be messy but is often doable as a DIY project with the right tools. You may need a contractor for a smooth finish for retaping and retexturing. Doing these repairs before moving in furniture saves time and effort.

Costs usually range from $2 to $3 per square foot, but addressing ceiling and drywall issues gives your home a fresh start and prepares it for other upgrades like painting and new flooring.

Replace or Refinish Flooring

Flooring sets the overall feel of your home, and new floors can make a huge difference immediately. Updated flooring can quickly refresh a fixer-upper, whether you’re removing old carpet, refinishing hardwood, or installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP).

LVP is a great budget-friendly choice. It looks like hardwood, is durable, easy to install, and water-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. New flooring improves your home’s look and functionality, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Installing new flooring before moving in or placing furniture is best, as the process can be time-consuming. Lighter floor colors can make rooms feel bigger and brighter, while darker shades add a cozy, dramatic touch.

Replace Windows

Windows are often overlooked, but updating them can significantly improve comfort and energy efficiency. Old windows let in drafts, making your HVAC system work harder and increasing utility bills. Though initially costly, energy-efficient windows will save money over time through lower heating and cooling costs.

New windows also make your home more comfortable by keeping it warmer in winter and cooler in summer while enhancing the look of your home inside and out. Though they can be expensive, the long-term benefits make window replacement an intelligent investment. To save money, get quotes from several contractors and look into energy-efficient options that might qualify for rebates. This will help you stay within budget and maximize efficiency.

Conclusion

As you embark on your renovation journey, prioritize projects that improve your home’s livability and energy efficiency. With careful planning and thoughtful decision-making, your fixer-upper can become the home of your dreams. Every house has unique challenges, but these expert tips will help you start on the right foot. For personalized advice on your renovation plans, don’t hesitate to consult with professionals who can guide you through the process.

Written by Billy Guteng. October 10, 2024

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.