The Real Estate Book-Shreveport/Bossier City, LA

10 easy
home improvements
to make on your
fixer upper
By Cary Teller
There is something awesome about
buying a fixer upper and doing the
renovations yourself. Some people fix
them up a bit at a time, using cash as they
have it available. If you want to make a big
impact by doing small things, here are 10
things you need to include.
1. Change Out the
Lighting
Nothing says outdated like an old-fashioned
gold chandelier. Lighting is something
that can be updated easily and won't
cost a bunch of money. It is one of the
smallest things you can do that will have
the biggest impact.
2. Paint
There is an old saying: "If a barn needs
to be painted, slap some paint on it." You
will be amazed at what some paint can do
to your home. A new hue can cover imperfections
and give the room the blast
of color it needs. Forget drab, white walls
that are lackluster. Give your home a color
makeover.
3. New Fixtures
Just like the lighting, the fixtures in the
home become outdated quickly. Start with
the kitchen faucet and then move on to the
bathroom. You can update and upgrade
a fixer upper by just adding these small
touches.
4. Paint Cabinets/Add
New Hardware
If you have new cabinets in the budget,
then you should go for it. However, if your
budget is limited, then you may want to try
to paint them. Painting old cabinets and installing
new hardware will give the kitchen
a facelift. If the cabinets are old but sturdy,
then you can bring them back to life. Painting
is inexpensive and has a huge impact.
5. Rip Out Old Carpeting
Carpet is great when it is new; however,
when it is old and dingy, it can really have
a negative impact on a space. Hardwoods
are the best option, followed by laminate
floors. However, if you are stretched for
money, you may try a bag floor or a penny
style one. There are creative options online
that allow you to do great things with your
floors for less.