Maybe you’ve been in your home for several years now, and it’s, well, just looking a little tired. So now you want to make it look newer and fresher and maybe increase its value at the same time. But you don’t have the cash for a major remodel or thoroughgoing renovations. You can, though, do quite a bit without a lot of effort or major expense. Here, then, are 5 ways to make your old house look new again in Chicago.
1. Install New Outlets, Switches, and Plates
Those mismatched, dirty, yellowed, and often painted-over plates can really make a room look old and neglected because they are so noticeable. With little effort and for probably less than $100, you can replace the outlets, switches, and plates in an entire home to give it a brighter, newer look. Just make sure you what you’re doing when replacing the outlets and switches, and always make sure the correct breakers are off.
2. Give the Entrance a Makeover
What’s the first thing people see when they come to your house? The entry area, of course, because it’s a major focal point. So in looking for ways to make your old house look new again in Chicago, you simply can’t ignore the entrance.
You could start by painting the door a bright, appealing color and installing a new knob and kick plate. Some strategically placed plants that accent and complement the look of the house is a good idea, too. Then you could finish off with a new doormat and address letters.
3. Refresh the Kitchen
You spend a lot of time in your kitchen, so you’ll definitely want to make it look newer. For those who want to spend a little more, new cabinets will work wonders for your kitchen. Or you could just paint the ones you have and install new hardware (and on the drawers as well). Another nice touch would be new faucets and light fixtures. And for an older kitchen with that ugly 1970s flooring, new flooring can certainly make it look almost new again.
4. Brighten Wood Floors
Refinishing wood floors can run into a good bit of expense, and it’s a lot of work. But just brightening and refreshing your wood floors can be almost as effective as one of the ways to make your old house look new again in Chicago.
Floors with an oil finish can be brightened with an application of wood oil and polishing. If your wood floor has a polyurethane finish, cleaning with a solution of vinegar and water – using a damp mop – can make them significantly brighter and newer looking.
5. Give the Bathroom a Facelift
An affordable bathroom facelift starts with repainting the bathroom in a light color to make it seem larger. A next good step is to install a new vanity and possibly a new mirror to complement the new vanity. Then you’ll likely want to add a new lavatory and fixtures to that bright, new vanity. You might also consider installing a new toilet if it is located very near the updated vanity. And don’t forget a new shower curtain to add the finishing touch.
These 5 ways to make your old house look new again in Chicago will do a lot for your home without costing you a lot. Still, you can do a lot more to make the house look new again without having to call a contractor.