Plan a room makeover on a budget

Budget makeovers go wrong when they start with shopping. They go right when they start with a goal, a number and a plan for where the money will make the biggest difference.

Start with a goal

• What bothers you most about the room now?
• How do you want it to feel: calmer, brighter, more grown-up?
• What has to stay: the sofa, the bed, the flooring?

Set the budget

1. Choose a total you can pay without debt
2. Hold back about 10% for surprises
3. Split the rest: the biggest share where it shows most, usually paint, lighting and one key piece

Biggest impact for the money

• Paint
• Better lighting
• Decluttering and rearranging (free)
• A rug that fits the room
• New hardware or switch plates
• Curtains hung higher and wider

General educational information. Prices vary by region and store; renters should check their lease. Nickel Home Pros isn't paid by any store or brand.