Home renovations can strain budgets, but strategic choices maximize value. Experts share where to splurge and where to save.
Spend: Quality Materials for High-Traffic Areas
Pros recommend investing in durable materials for kitchens and bathrooms. Quartz countertops ($50-$100/sq.ft.) and hardwood floors ($8-$15/sq.ft.) withstand wear, boost resale value, and reduce maintenance costs. “Quality here saves future repairs,” says contractor Jane Ellis.
Save: Cosmetic Updates
Skip expensive structural changes for low-cost cosmetic fixes. Painting cabinets ($1,000-$3,000) or updating hardware ($5-$20/knob) refreshes kitchens affordably. “Small touches like new lighting ($50-$200) create big impact,” notes designer Mark Chen.
Spend: Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Energy-saving windows ($300-$700 each) and insulation ($1-$2/sq.ft.) cut utility bills and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. “These pay off long-term,” says architect Sarah Lopez.
Save: DIY Where Safe
Simple tasks like painting walls ($100-$300 for supplies) or installing peel-and-stick backsplashes ($10-$20/sq.ft.) save labor costs if skills allow.
Conclusion: Balancing splurges on durability and efficiency with savings on cosmetics and DIY stretches renovation dollars, ensuring lasting value and appeal.