Kitchen Improvements for as Little as $100 or Less

Want to spruce up your kitchen but stuck on a tight budget? Check out this list of improvements you can get started on for around $100, or even less! These ideas can come in handy when you’re ready to list your home to sell on the market, and will help your kitchen look its best!

1. REFRESH THE SINK:

If your sink is starting to look outdated, find an affordable, yet stylish, replacement. If you have the eye for DIY, you can also purchase some sandpaper and a $4 can of spray paint that is made for metal, and use it to refresh and brighten the color.

2. HANG A NEW LIGHT FIXTURE

An on trend, decorative light fixture doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. You can generally find some decent ones that are close to or even under $100. Go for an oil rubbed bronze, black, or chrome finish, or choose the rustic route, whichever suits the current decor in your kitchen. You can also add LED lights under your kitchen cabinets for around $10-$20.

3. PAINT THE CABINETS

With care taken in the prep work, you can refinish the paint on your cabinets. You can generally get a kit for around $75. Refreshing the paint color or the stain can make your kitchen feel brand new.

4. TURN YOUR FRIDGE, or a wall INTO A CHALKBOARD

Chalkboard finishes are a hot trend! They add more functionality by allowing home owners to write grocery lists, menus, and even to-dos. Use painters tape to outline the shape and size you want to use as the chalkboard, then coat it with magnetic primer if on the fridge, followed by chalkboard paint. There are some great tutorials on Pinterest.

5. REPLACE OUTLET PLATES

Replace the outdated outlet wall plates for your light switches. If they look faded, yellow, or chipped, they’re a cheap fix to replace and will make a bigger impact that you might expect. We did this in our own kitchen and I was amazed at how much newer it made the whole kitchen feel.

6. CHANGE HARDWARE

Replacing the hardware on your kitchen cabinets and drawers can provide a drastic change to your kitchen. Not only can you get rid of hideous outdated hardware, but you can add a completely new feel to the theme of your kitchen just by updating the hardware throughout.

7. EXPAND STORAGE

Have empty wall space? Search your local home stores for cute baskets, floating shelves, or storage containers you can use to fill the space. Not only can it add some character to your kitchen, it also adds functionality and more storage options – a feature buyers love if you’re thinking of listing your home.

8. DRESS UP YOUR DECOR

Bring some color to your kitchen. Throw out decor that looks like it belongs in the 90’s, rugs that are falling apart, and anything else that weighs down a fresh look. Add in some new rugs and fresh hand towels. You can also add some plants and decorative pieces for character.

9. PAINT THE WALLS

Are your kitchen walls an outdated or too taste specific of a color?  Changing to an on-trend, neutral color is a great way to make a huge impact without spending a fortune.  Grays, griege, light blues and bluish greens, whites, and taupes are very popular right now.  Find something that compliments your cabinets, flooring, and countertops well.

10. CLEAN UP THE CLUTTER

The best tip I can give my clients is to remove the clutter! (And this doesn’t have to cost anything.)  Clear off counters and other surfaces, and only leave out what looks nice and you need for use on a regular basis. This will go a long way in helping your kitchen feel brighter and more spacious!