Useful Tips to Renovate Your Old House Within an Affordable Budget

Renovating an old house is both challenging and exciting.

Restoring the charm and character of the property can be rewarding, but it does come with some problems.

From wiring and structural issues to outdated plumbing, hidden costs are involved.

Also, adhering to the current building codes and securing permits can take up much of your time.

According to Statista, 70% of US homeowners opted for interior room remodeling in 2023.

Some people also chose outdoor home renovation. While some residents remodel their homes to give them a new look, others want to sell them at a good price.

For instance, the selling price of old and vintage homes in Shoreline, Washington, proves the point.

Homes are sold in a broad price range between $725,000 and $1,115,000 and even beyond that.

These properties have been remodeled and furnished to attract potential cash-rich buyers.

Do you want your old house to look better or sell it at a good price?

Regardless of your purpose for home renovation, there are a few remodeling tips to follow.

Wondering how to go about it? Keep reading this article to learn more.

Fix an Estimated Renovation Budget

Although you want to complete your old house remodeling at an affordable rate, you need to put a price on it.

According to Sweeten.com, a complete gut renovation in Washington, DC, can be approximately $100 per square foot.

Here are the house remodeling costs based on size:

• Small house (under 1,000 square feet):$10,000 to $50,000.
• Medium house (under 1000 to 2,500 square feet): $20,000 to $100,000.
• Large house (2500 to 4000 square feet): $50,000 to $200,000.

If you are in Shoreline or any other city in Washington, DC, the remodel expenses will revolve around the above-mentioned price ranges.

Knowing the cost will allow you to finalize your budget based on your spending capacity and current earnings.

It is necessary to stay away from impulse buys so that you don’t spend extra.

DIY Wherever Possible

Managing smaller tasks by yourself during a home remodeling project can lessen labor costs.

You can take charge of landscaping or even basic demolition without asking for professional help.

In addition to saving money, it allows you to have better control of the project.

Also, DIY tasks are low-risk and can help you save for more complex jobs where you need professional help.

Paint Your Old House

Painting your old property is a cost-effective renovation tip. A fresh coat of paint can transform the feel and look of your house and give it a facelift.

It is necessary to choose the colors that reflect the original character of your house while integrating modern trends as well.

Elle Decor, in February 2024, mentioned some of the popular house colors to opt for.

The list includes cream and deep green, pink and cobalt blue, mud red and grey, and many more. Unsure about the color palette?

Check with one of the leading painters in Shoreline or any other place based on your current location.

The professional painters will assess the look of your house and suggest a shade based on your budget and preference.

EA Pro Painters notes that leading names in this niche understand their customer requirements clearly and provide the best services.

Since harsh weather and breezes affect the home exterior and interior, they use high-end, durable products.

As a result, the paint lasts for a long time and adds to your house’s aesthetics.

Shop Secondhand or Look for Discounts

Shopping at discount stores or for secondhand products can reduce your home renovation cost.

Visit thrift shops and browse online marketplaces that provide quality items like tiles, windows, fixtures, and doors at a discounted price.

Most of these materials look distinctive and can elevate the overall appearance of your house without costing much.

Every city has excellent thrift stores. For instance, if you are a Shoreline resident, you can visit Habitat for Humanity, Thriftology, and Aurora-Antique Pavilion stores.

Refresh the Lighting

A small change in the lighting can significantly improve the look of your old house.

Consider upgrading to color-changing LED lights, offering multiple settings like soft white, daylight, and even pink.

The best part is you can manage it all with just one switch.

You can also use fairy lights to elevate the home decor.

Besides creating different moods, it’s a cost-effective way to modernize your space without spending much of your savings.

FAQs

What is the cost of home renovation in the USA?

The typical cost to remodel a house ranges from $20,000 to $100,000.

It depends on factors such as the home size, rooms being renovated, quality of materials used, and any structural modifications required.

On average, a full house renovation costs between $15 and $60 per square foot.

For kitchen and bathroom remodels, the expenses can be higher.

It can average between $100 and $250 per square foot because of the complexity and specialized materials often involved in these spaces.

Costs can vary widely based on specific project needs and choices.

Which room costs more in home renovation?

When planning to remodel specific rooms in your house, it’s important to understand the potential costs associated with each.

Typically, the kitchen, bathroom, and basement or entertainment areas are among the most expensive rooms to renovate.

Are home renovation and restoration the same?

Renovation and restoration serve different purposes, even though they are often confused.

Renovation involves upgrading, adding, or updating elements of a space to give it a new look or function.

In contrast, restoration focuses on preserving or returning a space to its original appearance and style.

To sum up, remodeling an old house is challenging, but with careful planning, you can accomplish the task smoothly.

It is essential to set a budget and identify areas where you can save money to ensure you don’t have to spend extra.

However, keep some amount extra than the fixed budget, just in case you want some changes you didn’t initially plan for.

That aside, following the tips mentioned above can help renovate your home without affecting your savings.