Homeowners

How to Love Your Home Again (Without Breaking the Bank)

Sometimes, our homes that once felt like the perfect fit begin to feel cramped, outdated, or uninspiring. However, buying a home and moving does not come cheap.

“The good news is that most of your frustrations can be solved—and they don’t always require a major renovation,” said Sarah Trop, interior designer and founder at FunCycled in Wynantskill, N.Y. 

Whether you’re working with a tight budget or ready to invest in more significant changes through a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), second mortgage, or cash-out refinance, the right design approach can help you reconnect with your space.

Let's tackle some common home challenges.

1. There isn’t enough space in your home

When faced with not having enough space, many homeowners assume they need to move to a larger abode or install an addition. However, these don’t have to be your only options.

Begin with budget-friendly options such as decluttering with intention.

“Donate, sell, or repurpose items you no longer need and invest in dual-purpose furniture like ottomans with storage or a Murphy bed in a guest room,” said Trop. This can help you to make the most of your space.

In smaller spaces, remember to maximize walls for storage and for daily living. Adding shelving to accommodate decorative storage solutions and everyday items provides another generous amount of real estate. With a little creative styling, your wall can look like a living piece of art.

Also, keep in mind that lighter colors, well-placed mirrors, and consistent flooring can visually expand a space without adding a single square foot.

“If you have the budget for a remodel, consult with a designer and structural engineer to see if you can remove walls,” said Veronica Sanders, owner and interior designer at Design with Veronica Sanders in Dallas. “Sometimes getting rid of an element can make a space feel open and airy again, giving it new life.”

2. You don’t like the poor layout of your home

Layout changes can be difficult in some homes, especially when it’s tough to move the electrical systems. If this is the case for you, consider the type of furniture you use and where you place it.

“Maybe you have a large sectional. You can open the space and give it more freedom by opting for individual pieces,” said Sanders. “Then, you can play with the layout and switch it up whenever the design bug bites.”

Whatever you do, allow at least three feet of walking space around major circulation points to help with flow and functionality.

If you’re ready for a bigger change, explore removing or relocating walls to improve flow.

“Think about your daily routines, and invest in changes that support them for years to come rather than chasing trends,” said Trop.

3. Outdated kitchens and bathrooms can make you nuts

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update a kitchen and bathroom is to change the hardware.

“I would suggest even switching out a couple of the cabinet doors. Give it a face-lift by switching the doors for glass front, then add decorative cabinet pulls for a new touch,” said Sanders.

If you have more funds to spend, give the rooms a fresh coat of paint or refinish the space with a new stain.

“I converted a small unused cabinet into a trash pull-out in my own kitchen,” said Sanders. “It only cost a couple hundred dollars and made my kitchen much more functional.”

If you’re looking to splurge, focus on high-impact elements, selecting quality countertops, timeless tile, and efficient appliances.

And don’t get carried away by fads, which can feel dated in a few years time.

“As a whole, I suggest avoiding overly specific trends in kitchens and bathrooms,” said Trop. “Rather, choose classic finishes that will stand the test of time and add value if you ever sell.”

4. You’re tired of the same, boring space

If a room feels flat, it’s usually missing texture, contrast, or personality.

“Adding layered textiles, such as throw blankets, pillows, and rugs, or styling shelves with a thoughtful mix of vintage finds and personal mementos will quickly provide depth and personality,” said Trop.

To ensure a polished look with these additions, make sure your textiles share a consistent color palette and the decor pieces you select work to complement and support the overall look of the room.

Paint is another low-cost powerhouse as even a single accent wall can transform the mood in any space.

For a more substantial upgrade, add architectural details like wainscoting, beams, or built-in bookcases.

“My golden rule here: invest in pieces you truly love, not just filler decor, and your home will naturally feel more alive,” said Trop.

5. You have a blah yard

You may crave a stunning outdoor space, but be stymied on how to achieve it.

If you’re only looking for a few quick touch-ups to your outdoor living space, you can start by creating a dedicated “destination” with a fire pit area or café-style seating. You can even use pavers or gravel to help define the space.

“Add string lighting, potted plants, a fun outdoor rug and coordinating throw pillows to instantly make the space feel intentional and inviting without breaking the bank,” said Sanders.

Changing out the mulch will also give it a fresh look as well.

To completely transform your yard and make it a true extension of your home, however, consider an outdoor kitchen and lounge.

“For one client, we poured new concrete, built in a custom brick outdoor kitchen, incorporated their existing grill alongside new appliances, and added a brand-new outdoor television, ceiling fan, and layered lighting,” said Sanders.

The space now functions as a second living room, but with fresh air.

How to pay for the home upgrades

While some of these home improvement hacks can be done on the cheap with some DIY labor, others may require more funding. Homeowners may be able to tap into the equity they have in their homes to pay for the renovations. (Equity is how much of the home you own due to paying down your mortgage balance plus appreciation boosting your home value.)

HELOCs allow homeowners to tap into the equity in their property, up to a certain amount. These loans are similar to a credit card as you only take out what you need during the draw period, typically five to 10 years. Then you pay it back.

A cash-out refinance is when you take out a new mortgage that’s larger than the one you’re replacing. Then you pocket the extra cash from your home equity and pay it back every month in your mortgage payments.

Second mortgages are another option. These are just as they sound, an additional mortgage. This allows you to keep your existing mortgage, while using your home equity to get some extra cash. You pay back each mortgage separately.

Loving your home again isn’t about chasing every trend or gutting every room. It’s about making smart, intentional changes that fit your life, your budget, and your values.

“When design is both thoughtful and true to you, even the smallest refresh can feel like a whole new chapter," said Trop.