3 DIY renos to improve the value of your home

DIY reno tip #1: Painting

The quickest and easiest way to add value to your property is through painting because your total investment on a DIY paint job will pale in comparison to the added value it creates -- not to mention the incredible difference you can make to the look and feel of each room.

Don’t grab your paint brush just yet, however, as there are a few things you should do to make the process of painting your walls easier.

“Before you start painting, it is crucial to wash your walls and ceilings. Any residual dirt can make the end product look grainy or uneven,” cautions the team at www.paintpal.com.au. A quick wash with a sugar soap is your best bet, paying particular attention to skirting boards and corners.

“Also, apply a strip of masking tape along the skirting and a drop sheet on the floor to protect the woodwork and floor.”

DIY reno tip #2: Lighting

New lighting is something that many DIY renovators shy away from, believing it to be too expensive and too complicated. But the truth is, modern lighting can instantly update the look of your home -- and it doesn’t need to cost the earth.

A quick whip around Bunnings or Masters reveals an extensive range of basic lighting options, priced from as little as $10 to $15 each. Keep in mind that basic need not mean boring: By investing in some stylish pendant lighting fixtures, for instance, you’ll create drama and boost the appeal (and therefore, value) of your living spaces.

Best of all, with these types of standard lighting styles, self-installation is virtually idiot-proof, so you won’t need to engage an electrician for installation.

DIY reno tip #3: Kitchen

Renovating your kitchen is going to be costly. But renovating parts of your kitchen -- such as installing fresh cabinet hardware, replacing your taps or repainting the cupboard doors -- can instantly update the look and feel of your kitchen for an investment of less than $500.

If your cupboards are in good condition, a lick of paint will make all the difference. White or chocolate are both fresh, modern shades that will update your kitchen and match most colour schemes.

To make this DIY renovation work, you need to invest a little time and money into the process. You’re aiming for the end result to look like brand new kitchen cupboards, rather than doors that were painted by hand, so be sure to spray paint them rather than using a brush or a roller. A sprayer can be rented from your local hardware store for around $50 to $150 per day, and you should be able to knock over the whole project within one day. Finish the look with brand new, shiny chrome door handles, and voila -- your kitchen refresh is complete!

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