What a $250, $500 or $1,000 refresh can include

$250

• Declutter and rearrange
• Two secondhand lamps and warm LED bulbs
• Curtains hung high and wide
• Frame your own art

$500

• Everything at $250
• Paint the walls yourself
• A large rug that fits the seating area
• New throw pillow covers

$1,000

• Everything at $500
• One key secondhand piece, like a coffee table or chair
• A slipcover or reupholstery for a tired sofa
• Plug-in sconces

$250

• Declutter and clear surfaces
• New bedding in one calm color
• Bedside lamps with warm bulbs
• Hooks and baskets for clutter

$500

• Everything at $250
• Paint, or an accent wall behind the bed
• A rug under the bed
• Blackout curtains

$1,000

• Everything at $500
• A secondhand headboard or dresser, refinished
• New hardware on all drawers
• A full-length mirror

$250

• Clear the counters
• New cabinet knobs and pulls
• A new faucet if the old one leaks (DIY with the water off)
• Under-cabinet plug-in lights

$500

• Everything at $250
• Paint the walls
• A peel-and-stick backsplash away from heat
• New switch plates and outlet covers

$1,000

• Everything at $500
• Paint the cabinets (a week-long project)
• A replacement ceiling fixture, installed safely
• A washable runner rug

$250

• Re-caulk the tub or shower
• New towels and shower curtain in one color
• New towel bars and hooks
• A bath mat that fits

$500

• Everything at $250
• Paint with a bathroom paint
• A new mirror or framed mirror
• A water-saving showerhead

$1,000

• Everything at $500
• A replacement vanity light, installed safely
• Peel-and-stick floor tiles over a sound floor
• Open shelving for storage