DIY Kitchen Updates That Won’t Break the Bank

Whether the kitchen of your dreams is out of reach, or you are looking to give your kitchen a quick refresh before putting your home on the market, there are many ways to update the look of this most-important room in the house without breaking the bank.

1. Paint or re-stain existing cabinetry.

One of the best ways to change the look and feel of a dated kitchen is to refresh the face of your cabinets. Treating old-fashioned cabinets to a coat of fresh paint can instantly modernize the look of the whole room. Remember to keep colors neutral for mass appeal. For a more timeless, traditional look, staining your wooden cabinets a darker shade can bring a dramatic new feel to your kitchen.

2. Switch out the hardware.

While you’re working on your cabinets, don’t forget to address the hardware. Changing it out for something more interesting or modern is one of the quickest updates you can make to a kitchen, and it can go a long way toward giving your home the high-end look buyers are seeking. There is a huge selection of pulls, knobs and handles available both in stores and online, and an almost limitless range of styles and price points.

3. Add a pop of color.

While most buyers prefer a neutral kitchen, you can still brighten your kitchen with well-placed pops of color. Adding a bold window treatment, a colorful rug by the sink or even painting an accent wall can breathe new life into your space.

4. Add more storage.

If you have the space, hanging open shelving not only provides another opportunity for a splash of color but creates the additional storage space buyers are always hoping to find. Depending on the style of your kitchen or the look you are hoping to achieve, hang floating shelves, shelves with brackets or piping shelves to add a unique touch to your room.