The Savvy Homeowner's Handbook to Budget Renovations

If you were to check out what someone who just bought a house has been searching for online, you'd probably see phrases like "Home renovations on a budget," "Average costs for A, B, C projects," or "Affordable ways to fix stuff." Whether you're a new homeowner or not, you've probably noticed the shockingly high prices of things like wood, plumbing fixtures, and even that small can of Pringles you grab while waiting in line at your local home improvement store. You might even try to convince yourself that you'll find a use for that can after you've finished the chips. But let's be real...

So, is it even possible to renovate your home without breaking the bank these days? The answer is yes. After all, what's considered a budget varies from person to person. In a more general sense, there are smart choices you can make to save money without sacrificing the quality or safety of your project.

Do It Yourself (DIY)
If you have the skills, you can save money by doing the work yourself instead of hiring a professional. If you've always wanted to learn how to install an electrical outlet, fix a sink, lay tiles, or replace damaged drywall, there are plenty of instructional videos on YouTube to help you out. You can also check out your favorite hardware store's website, where you might find installation guides right on the product pages.

Hunt for Bargains
So, you've decided to tackle the project on your own, but the cost of materials has you feeling overwhelmed. Just because that fancy mansion you visited had imported Italian marble tiles in the foyer doesn't mean you have to splurge on them. Measure the dimensions of your room and calculate the square footage. Then, see how much square footage each box of flooring can cover. If a box covers 14 square feet and you need to cover 144 square feet, you'll need around 10.2 boxes, so buy 11 or even 12 to account for any mistakes.

Disregard Brand Names
Buy what you can afford. Minimum-grade materials will work just fine! Don't overspend on fancy brands. Most vinyl and laminate plank flooring can be installed with basic tools like a circular saw, pencil, straight edge, rubber hammer, and a small block of wood. You don't need an expensive kit just because it's endorsed by celebrities. And don't forget to check Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for materials that others are selling at a much lower cost.

Seek Advice from Experienced Folks
Consider asking someone with experience for help. Maybe you have a family member or friend who knows their way around home repairs. They might be willing to assist you in exchange for a meal or some drinks. Of course, there are times when hiring a professional is necessary, but you can learn a lot from someone you trust without emptying your wallet.

Being a new homeowner can be intimidating, especially when you have to take on the roles of a maintenance person, roofer, plumber, electrician, and landscaper. But think about all the memories you'll create when your sister teaches you how to hang wallpaper while you're perched on an 8-foot ladder, just inches away from the top of the stairs. Priceless moments await.