Low-Cost Updates that Add Value

When working with a remodeling professional, purchasing molding materials and paying for installation can be tough on your pocketbook. Instead, go with less expensive wainscoting and a simple chair rail. Can't live without the crown molding look? Save money by installing it yourself.

Ceramic tile is classic and widely available at home centers and tile stores. Its traditional look makes it the perfect fit for bathrooms, kitchens, and fireplaces. Budget tip: Mix ceramic tiles with a few decorative tiles to create a custom look for a lower cost.

Lay cozy carpet in a master bedroom rather than more expensive wood flooring. Your feet will thank you on those chilly winter mornings.

Learn more about carpet and how to choose the right type for your floors.

Choose pricier, eye-catching fixtures to highlight one or two main areas in the kitchen, such as the island or sink. Opt for less-expensive, off-the-shelf fixtures elsewhere.

Decorative brackets add an appealing blend of support and architectural interest to basic wooden shelves. Purchase unfinished wooden brackets from a local home improvement store and customize them with paint or small wooden accents.

Select affordable, midrange kitchen cabinetry instead of top-of-the-line cabinets. That way you can spend the money you save on high-quality appliances that complement your kitchen's design and layout.

Color is a home designer's cheapest and most powerful tool when transforming a room. Whether you're adding a little color or a lot, make over any room in your home with a fresh coat of paint, or colorful tile, hardware, or accessories. Mustard-color paint energizes cabinetry in this home's hardworking kitchen.

Architectural woodwork not only adds character, it disguises imperfections in old walls. Use simple woodwork, such as beaded-board paneling and corner rosettes, to dress up walls and add interest to rooms. Beaded board is durable, budget-friendly, and can stand up to splashes, making it a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

Good looks and practicality are equal partners when implementing storage in heavy-traffic areas. Open shelves in the kitchen marry storage and display, providing easy access to dishware during meal prep and entertaining. The technique also works well in any small space around the house -- from bookcases to bathroom storage -- as the visual openness keeps the room from feeling cluttered.