3 Easy Home Improvement Projects to Tackle This Year

While we'd all like to spruce up our houses from time to time, the prospect of some home improvement projects can seem a little overwhelming. From getting the tools and materials together to actually doing the task, where do you even start? Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do that won't take too much time or money to finish. The result is a feeling of accomplishment and an elevated property! Here are some of our best tips to help you get inspired.

1. Refresh old furniture

Are you feeling tired of your old side tables or office desk? If this is the case, you might feel tempted to throw them out and start brand new. But new furniture is costly, and it can be hard to find exactly what you want to make your home the way you've always dreamed it could be. You could pour hundreds or even thousands of dollars into new furniture when you might be able to refresh the stuff you already have.

Upscaling a chair might involve a simple re-upholstering project or a fresh coat of paint. Staining wood furniture can bring it to the next level for the fraction of the price of a whole new piece. Sometimes, even cleaning the couch cushions or rearranging the old furniture can bring it a new, fresh perspective.

2. Deep cleaning

You might be surprised how big of a difference a big deep cleaning can make in your house or property. Here are some ways to incorporate some intense cleaning into your home improvement goals:

• Clean your carpets and rugs.
• Power wash the exterior of your house.
• De-mold the kitchen and the bathroom.
• Clean the fireplace if you have one.
• Scrub the window blinds.
• Vacuum and clean vents.

Much of this kind of deep cleaning can be done yourself if you have the right tools, and even if you pay a professional, the long-term investment is worth it. Keeping your home clean and maintaining it in that way can make your home and property last longer as well.

3. Get organized

Home improvement doesn't have to include any construction or remodeling, and organizing your home can go a long way in elevating your home. Get into that room that you've been ignoring and unpack the drawer that holds all those things you haven't gotten around to throwing away. Organizing and cleaning up your home isn't just for aesthetic purposes, and could improve your safety.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, falling objects have caused 50,000 recordable injuries per year in America. This means that just shoving things on the top shelf could actually be very dangerous. Find some good storage solutions that are within your budget, and clear the crowded corners of your house. This is also a good chance to throw away or donate items that you don't use anymore.

Are you ready to find your next home or are you interested in selling* yours? Reach out to Vectra Bank today to get started.

^{*Credit approval required. Terms, conditions and restrictions apply. See banker for details. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #467014}