7 Ways to Update Your Home for Less Than $100

It’s no secret that most Canadians love to get a deal. We enjoy hunting for things that look like they’re worth scads of money, but were actually bought at a bargain.

In the same vein, a home can be updated to look chic and sleek without emptying the bank. These seven ways to update your home will make it look like a million bucks, but the neighbours will never know how little you actually spent.

Change the mailbox. If your mailbox has seen better days, giving it a new lease on life, or replacing it, can give your home and instant pick-me-up. Whether it’s a vintage feel you’re going for or ultra-modern, a new mailbox may literally fit the bill.

Step on a new mat. A colourful, new door mat is a terrific way of welcoming friends and family to your home. There are many, one-of-a-kind designs on the market today that might be just what your front door has been needing.

Solar ambient lighting. Harness the sun’s power to give your outdoor spaces an ethereal night time look. Whether you choose to hang solar twinkle lights on your gazebo or pergola or line your driveway with solar lamps, these are an inexpensive way to bring some shine to an evening outside.

From bland to grand. Hanging a wreath or other decoration on your front door will instantly make it pop. You can actually exercise your craft muscle with a DIY project. Visitors will be doubly impressed when you tell them you made it yourself.

Repurpose and upcycle. You know that wire basket you were going to throw away? How about turning it sideways and hanging it on the wall for a modern take on storage? What about the vintage suitcase that’s been hiding in your closet? Add some furniture legs and you’ve got an instant side table and a conversation piece. There are so many things that can be turned into other things instead of ending up in a landfill.

Rugs are like hugs. Throw rugs can be inexpensive and will make a floor warm and cozy, instantly lifting the mood of a room. Find a rug that expresses your own, unique style. Your rooms will love you for it.

Replace dated hardware. If the pulls on your kitchen cupboards and drawers have lost their lustre, maybe it’s time for a change. They come in all materials today and in all levels of sheen—from the high gleam of stainless steel to the matte finish of pewter.