Buying a home is a huge financial milestone, but after moving in, many homeowners feel the urge to upgrade and personalize their space. The challenge? Home renovations can be expensive!
The good news? There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to enhance your home without draining your savings. Whether you want to improve aesthetics, increase functionality, or boost property value, these 7 affordable home improvement ideas will help Calgary homeowners make impactful changes without overspending.
Refresh Your Walls with a Fresh Coat of Paint
A simple paint job can completely transform the look and feel of your home.
🔹 Cost: $50–$200 per room
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Yes!
Why it Works:
- Bright, neutral tones make spaces feel bigger.
- Accent walls add a modern, stylish touch.
- A fresh coat covers up scuffs and old marks, making the home feel brand new.
💡 Pro Tip: Calgary’s fluctuating temperatures can affect paint drying time. Use high-quality, low-VOC paint for durability and better air quality.
Upgrade Lighting for a Brighter, More Modern Home
Lighting can make or break a home’s ambiance and energy efficiency.
🔹 Cost: $20–$150 per fixture
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Yes, for most plug-in and screw-in options
Easy Upgrades:
✔️ Swap outdated light fixtures for sleek, modern designs.
✔️ Install LED bulbs—they use 75% less energy and last longer.
✔️ Add motion-sensor or smart lighting to save energy.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re on a budget, look for deals at Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Calgary—they sell discounted, high-quality home improvement materials.
Revamp Your Kitchen Cabinets Without Replacing Them
A full kitchen remodel can cost $20,000+, but you don’t have to spend that much! Instead, update your existing cabinets.
🔹 Cost: $100–$500
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Yes!
Affordable Kitchen Upgrades:
✔️ Repaint or re-stain cabinets for a fresh look.
✔️ Replace old cabinet handles with modern hardware.
✔️ Add stick-on backsplash tiles for an instant refresh.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: White and light grey cabinet colors increase resale value and make kitchens look bigger and cleaner.
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Install Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Backsplash
Looking for a quick, stylish transformation? Peel-and-stick options are an easy, renter-friendly solution!
🔹 Cost: $30–$100
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Super easy!
Where to Use It:
✔️ Accent Walls: Add character to bedrooms and living spaces.
✔️ Kitchens & Bathrooms: Waterproof backsplash stickers create a modern look.
✔️ Furniture Upgrades: Cover old dressers, countertops, or bookshelves for a refreshed design.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Many Calgary homeowners use faux-brick or wood peel-and-stick panels for a rustic touch.
Improve Energy Efficiency & Reduce Bills
Home improvements shouldn’t just look good—they should save you money too!
🔹 Cost: $50–$500
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Some projects require professional installation
Easy Energy-Saving Upgrades:
✔️ Install a smart thermostat (Nest or Ecobee) to cut heating costs.
✔️ Add weather stripping to doors and windows to prevent drafts.
✔️ Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances when possible.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Calgary homeowners can apply for energy rebate programs that help cover upgrade costs! Check Energy Efficiency Alberta for details.
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Learn about Home Living with Smart Home Automation.
Enhance Your Outdoor Space on a Budget
First impressions matter! Simple landscaping and curb appeal improvements can increase your home’s value.
🔹 Cost: $50–$500
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Yes!
Affordable Outdoor Upgrades:
✔️ Add solar-powered lights for an inviting walkway.
✔️ Plant perennials that return every year—less cost and maintenance.
✔️ Power-wash the driveway and patio to refresh the exterior.
💡 Pro Tip: Check Calgary’s Community Clean-Up Days—they often provide free compost, mulch, and yard waste disposal!
Upgrade Your Bathroom Without a Full Reno
A bathroom remodel can cost $10,000+, but small updates can make a big impact.
🔹 Cost: $50–$500
🔹 DIY-Friendly? ✅ Yes!
Budget-Friendly Bathroom Updates:
✔️ Replace faucet and showerhead for a modern, water-efficient look.
✔️ Re-grout tiles to make the space look new.
✔️ Install a new mirror and better lighting to brighten the space.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: A floating shelf or over-the-toilet storage maximizes space in small bathrooms.
In Conclusion...
Home improvements don’t have to cost a fortune. By making small, smart changes, first-time homeowners in Calgary can increase their home’s comfort, style, and efficiency—without breaking the bank.
Thinking about more buying an affordable home in Calgary? Contact Jenga Homes for affordable new homes in Calgary today on (403)-454-2218.
