7 Home Renovations You Can Make for $1,000 or Less

Home renovation projects cost an average of $41,600, according to Forbes. So if you have $1,000 or less to spend on home renovations, you’re probably wondering how you can get the best value for your money.

The truth is that you don’t have to spend thousands to get results. Small changes can make a big difference in both the function and the appearance of your home. Here are some home renovations to consider if you’re looking to stay within a $1,000 budget. 

“In my experience as a co-owner of Bonsai Builders, I’ve often tackled projects with budget constraints and discovered that one of the most transformative renovations under $1,000 is strategic painting,” said Kristin Hintlian, co-owner of Bonsai Builders.

“Opting for high-impact areas, such as the front door or kitchen cabinets, can drastically change the appearance of your home,” she said. “High-quality, durable paint specifically designed for these surfaces provides both a noticeable aesthetic upgrade and longevity.”

“Another cost-effective renovation is updating fixtures and hardware, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms,” Hintlian said.

“Replacing dated faucet fixtures, cabinet handles and towel bars are relatively simple DIY projects that immediately refresh the space. These minor updates can make older rooms feel more modern and engaging without breaking the bank,” she added.

“Improving home organization is a subtly powerful change that doesn’t require a huge budget,” Hintlian said. “Installing organizational systems in closets, pantries or garages enhances functionality and increases the usable space within a home. Thoughtful, practical organization solutions like shelving systems or drawer dividers can make everyday living more efficient and homes more appealing.”

While it won’t do anything to enhance the aesthetic of your home, adding extra insulation to your attic is a home renovation under $1,000 that can be a game changer, according to Jake Herman, founder of Spray Foam Insulation USA.

“Many homeowners overlook their attics, but proper insulation there can prevent heat from escaping in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer, reducing heating and cooling costs significantly,” he explained. “Typically, materials for a project like this, such as batt insulation or reflective foil, can be sourced affordably and offer a great [return on investment]. According to case studies from our work, clients have seen up to 30% savings on their energy bills after such updates.”

Andy Roe, CEO of Roe Painting, said that an effective home renovation under $1,000 that he recommends is an exterior paint refresh. However, you will have to pick and choose where you want to refresh the paint because repainting the entire exterior would likely cost more than $1,000. 

“Selecting a vibrant new color for your home’s trim, shutters or front door not only revitalizes its appearance but also boosts curb appeal immensely,” he said. “We’ve seen properties visually transform with just a few gallons of paint, making this a top recommendation for a budget-friendly, yet impactful, upgrade.”

“Another area where small investments yield significant returns is through pressure washing,” Roe said.

“For under $1,000, homeowners can hire professionals to thoroughly clean the exterior of their home, including sidewalks and driveways,” he added. “This not only improves the home’s aesthetic but also extends the life span of the paint and siding by removing harmful contaminants and mold that can cause decay.”

“Lastly, refreshing the stain on external wood structures like decks and fences makes a substantial difference,” Roe said.

“Using a high-quality stain can not only enhance the beauty of the wood but also protect it from the elements, reducing long-term maintenance costs,” he explained. “Each of these solutions offers practical, visually appealing results that increase both the enjoyment and the value of your home, fitting comfortably within the $1,000 budget.”