10 Inexpensive Updates For a Builder Grade Home

Inexpensive tips and tricks for updating a basic builder grade home.

It can be extremely overwhelming trying to update an older home or one that is very builder basic. There's not always money in the budget for expensive upgrades and sticking to a strict budget can sometimes be stressful. That doesn't mean you have to live with dated fixtures and a home that doesn't represent your style and personality. With a little effort and creativity, you can turn your builder grade home into a beautiful and custom place you love.

1. Make Baseboards Taller

Replacing baseboards can not only be time consuming, but can also be a huge expense. We eventually replaced all our boring 70's molding in our home, but it was done over the course of a few years. If you're not ready to go through the hassle and mess of tearing out molding, adding to your existing baseboards is a great option.

via, The Idea Room

2. Spray Paint Dated Light Fixtures, Door Knobs and Vent Covers.

There's no need to spend hundred's of dollars on new lights and fixtures. Spray paint and new light bulbs can go a long way in transforming worn or dated fixtures.

via, It's Just Laine

via, Thrifty Decor Chick

3. Update Basic Lighting

Oh, the dreaded boob lights and shiny brass fixtures that are a staple in almost every builder grade home. If spray paint isn't your thing, you can inexpensively DIY or replace light fixtures to make a bold statement to any space.

update basic lighting, builder grades homes, easy updates

via, The Heathered Nest

via, The Hunted Interior

Psst...that light over her sink is made from a bowl found at Goodwill!

4. Paint Dated Cabinets

Painting kitchen and bathroom cabinets has to be the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to updating your home. The color and possibilities are endless!

Painted kitchen cabinets, inexpensive updates

via, Cherished Bliss

Painted kitchen cabinets, builder grade updates

via, At Home With The Barkers

via, Rain on a Tin Roof

5. Add Finials to Basic Cabinets

Pair together a few inexpensive finials from the hardware store and a quart of paint and you can completely change the look of builder basic cabinets.

via, Centsational Girl

via, The Idea Room

6. Replace Vertical Blinds and Shades with Bamboo Blinds.

Custom drapes and curtain panels can add up quickly, especially if you have a lot of windows to cover. Adding a few simple bamboo shades can instantly update a space without breaking the bank.

Via The Inspired Room

Layer on inexpensive sheers and you instantly have a custom look.

via, The Painted Hive

7. Add Molding to Interior Doors

Updating interior doors can make such a dramatic difference in a home. When we moved into our 35 year old home all the interior doors were original, they were dark, cheap and hallow. Before replacing all the doors we gave them a temporary update with paint, but if you're looking for a more dramatic look, adding molding can immediately transform your doors from boring to custom.

{via, Jenna Sue Design Co.}

via, The Painted Door Collection

8. Add a plank wall

Thanks to Fixer Upper plank walls are all the rage these days. They are gorgeous and cost next to nothing with a little DIY effort. I updated our entryway with about $50 in plywood and I can't get over the difference!

Via, Little House of Four

9. Customize Basic Cabinets With Molding

You can update cabinets with paint and hardware or you can go one step further and add decorative molding. Customize an island by adding a bookshelf, add crown molding or raise your cabinets to the ceiling, either way, it's sure to make a big impact.