Home projects you can do for around $1,000 or less.
Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value or simply want to enjoy your space more, home improvement projects can make all the difference. From fresh paint to little repairs, there are many tasks that homeowners (and renters) can get done on a relatively small budget. Check out these home improvement ideas you can tackle for about $1,000 or less — some of which you can do with your own two hands.
1. Upgrade your front door.
Replacing your old entry door is a quick way to improve your home’s curb appeal and take advantage of newer, more energy-efficient front door options. On average, professional door installation projects cost around $300, but total costs can range from $880-$1,250 depending on the materials and labor costs in your area.
Want a less costly idea? Repaint it instead. Depending on the type of paint you want (and the size of your door), painting your front door will typically cost less than replacing it.
2. Make small upgrades to your bathroom.
Don’t have the budget for a full bathroom remodel? Focus on a few fixtures instead, like the sink. Sink installation projects typically range from $150-$225 in total. However, costs could increase depending on your preferences, the number of sinks in your bathroom and labor costs in your area. On the high end, installing a sink costs $450-$563.
You may also want to consider refinishing your bathtub ($475+) if it’s damaged with water stains and rust. Or, you could spend $250 to just under $1,000 for a new shower door. But keep in mind that costs may vary depending on your space.
There are even smaller projects you can tackle to make a big impact. For example, set a budget of a few hundred dollars and use it to switch out the accessories and hardware (towel bar, cabinet handles, etc.), replace your mirror or put up a few shelves.
3. Repaint one of your rooms.
A simple paint job can transform any kitchen, living room, bathroom, home office or bedroom. Breathe new life into your home by repainting one (or more) rooms in a color that makes you happy. You can paint all of the walls in your room — or consider choosing an accent wall.
Go to your local home improvement store and look at paint swatches for inspiration. If you’re skilled with a paint brush, you can DIY this project for a few hundred dollars or less (assuming you have to go buy paint and other supplies). If not, consider hiring a professional.
Professional painters charge around $917 for one room on average. Of course, your costs may differ depending on several factors, including labor costs, the type of paint you choose, the size of the room and more.
4. Put up new window coverings.
Installing new blinds, curtains, shades or drapes is an easy DIY project that costs just a few hundred dollars and can add value to your home. Because there are many types of blinds and window treatments — including wood blinds, bamboo blinds, faux wood blinds, roman shades, and other materials — you can find a style that fits in with your existing decor. Consider adding energy-efficient options that could potentially help you save money in the long run.
Many DIY kits come with detailed instructions on how to install them yourself. Just be sure you have all the necessary parts before starting (since they might not come with everything you need), and read all instructions carefully before you begin. Sound like a challenge? You can always hire a professional near you to install your new window treatments.
5. Install more electrical outlets or new light switches.
Installing updated switches (think: dimmers or motion-activated switches) is a subtle way to make your home look more modern. And if you find yourself relying on tons of extension cords (which isn’t always safe, FYI), it may be time to consider adding more outlets.
Projects that involve working with electricity should always be handled by a professional electrician. Expect to pay about $175-$260 per switch or outlet, on average.
6. Make small improvements around your kitchen.
In the kitchen, it’s possible to undertake one or two projects with a $1,000 budget. Like we shared before, painting your walls can have an enormous impact on the appearance and feel of the room. Or, you can:
- Use a peel-and-stick backsplash to give your kitchen a splash of color.
- Repaint your cabinets yourself (instead of replacing them).
- Add a few open shelves to display beautiful dishes, plants and art.
- If you have enough room, add a portable island or beverage cart.
- Give your kitchen a contemporary makeover just by changing out the dishware, linens or rugs.
The bottom line: with $1,000, the possibilities in your kitchen are endless.
7. Put up new wallpaper.
Don’t feel like painting your walls? Well, how about putting up some new wallpaper? You may find yourself leaning toward the patterns, designs and textures you can get with wallpaper instead of interior paint. Wallpaper projects tend to cost around $300-$400 in total on average, but your price will depend on the number of rooms, the type of wallpaper you choose and the size of the walls.
8. Decorate the walls.
If your walls are in good shade and you’re happy with the color or design, adding wall art may make a space feel much larger — and give it some character. Try open shelving, artwork or other decorative items (think: clocks or wall planters) that instantly enhance a room’s look.
You can get the most out of your money if you’re willing to think outside the box. For example, make a room more interesting by draping an old piece of fabric over a large canvas or framing paper art or a wallpaper sample.
9. Create a low-budget outdoor living space.
When the weather’s nice, it’s tempting to want to spend as much time as possible in your yard. But if you don’t have an area built for relaxation or dining, you’ll stay stuck inside. Create a cozy outdoor living space with just $1,000 (yes it’s possible if you get creative).
You can probably stay within your budget if you do one or two of the following projects:
- Use old, donated or discounted outdoor furniture. As long as the furniture is durable (think: wicker, metal, plastic, etc.), it will likely hold up outside. Invest in covers to protect your tables, chairs, sofa and other furniture.
- Repaint outdoor furniture. If you already have a set of outdoor furniture but it’s not in great shape, consider repainting the pieces instead of buying a new set.
- Make your own throw pillows. If you have a few old pillows lying around the house, go to your local fabric shop and stitch together a few sturdy, outdoor pillow covers.
- DIY your own fire pit. Costing several hundred dollars in some cases, building your own fire pit might take a large bite out of your $1,000. But if you plan to spend warm nights outside, it’s a great investment.
- Hang up a few string lights. Whether you have string lights stored away for the holidays or you need to order new ones, this is an affordable way to spruce up your backyard. Hang lights on your patio, deck or pergola.
10. Start a garden.
Assuming your yard doesn’t need any drastic changes (new grass, soil, leveling, etc.), starting a garden is a relatively inexpensive home project that has several benefits, including:
- Growing your own vegetables, fruits, flowers and herbs
- Providing a safe haven for pollinators like birds and bees
- Improving your mood (that is, if you enjoy being outside and using your hands)
You’ll need to account for all of the seeds, plants and supplies you’ll have to buy. And if you want a professional’s help, expect to pay anywhere from $25-$100 per hour for gardening services.
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