We posted this before but it's too good not to share again. Especially with the summer months upon us, it's the perfect time for home renovations! Take a look below at a list of DIY home renovations that won't break the bank.

[1] Splash of Colour

Source: MyWaterFilet.Net

Fresh paint can easily transform the ambience of a room. The amazing thing about paint is how it can personalize a home without a hefty price tag. It is nearly effortless, comes in an array of colours and shades and best of all, it's cheap! If you're someone who enjoys frequent changes, you can easily create a new look by painting your room again.

Having an accent wall can add character into a room by incorporating a striking design element in your space. You can create a stunning, unique space by painting your accent wall a different color or pattern. To create a bold statement, you can make the accent wall pop by choosing a bold, colorful shade that will accentuate the space without overpowering it. In contrast, you can opt for a sleeker look by designing an accent wall that is a gradual contrast rather than a bold one. Try a color that is a few shades deeper than the rest of your walls. 

If you were to choose one room in your home to renovate, it should be your kitchen! The kitchen is the single most important focal point for most prospective home buyers. Below you will find some money saving tips for kitchen makeovers!

[2] Cabinetry DIY

Source: TheOffiz.Com

Replacing cabinetry can be quite expensive so why not make use of your existing cabinetry? Often times a simple fix-me-up can do the trick. Try refacing or refinishing your cabinets! Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors while keeping the actual cabinet boxes intact. Alternatively, if you have wood cabinets, you could refinish them by sanding down and repainting or staining them.

[3] Changing up the Countertops

Source: Houzz.com

Granite countertops seem daunting due to its price tag but search around for deals at your local retailer or peruse through the clearance section to find quality materials at a fraction of the cost. For large kitchens, perhaps consider less costly alternatives such as Corian, quartz, wood grain or even eco-friendly materials such as bamboo or glass. 

Next in line in terms of importance to current home owners and future home buyers is the bathroom. 

[4] Bathroom Beautification 

Source: VictoriaHomeDesigns.com

Ceramic tiles are becoming the flooring preference for today's home buyer. Depending on the size of your bathroom, you could find discounted tiles that you can install yourself. In addition to changing the flooring, you can upgrade your vanity and sink. Opt for a pedestal sink and/or freestanding storage cabinets for a cost-effective renovation. To make use of a small space, integrating continuing horizontal lines, a large frameless mirror and strategically placed lighting will create the illusion of having a larger space.

[5] Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space

Source: Pinterest

Beautify the entranceway to your home by amping up your curb appeal. Place planters, shrubbery or flowers along your entrance way to liven up your entrance. Alternatively, you can line the walkway with perennial plants or outdoor lighting fixtures to light up the walkway. Another way to increase the value of your home is with a lawn transformation. Replace your existing lawn with sod (aka turf) to have a luscious green lawn that will be sure to stop traffic.

For all your real estate needs, contact Amalia Liapis by e-mail at amalia@wesellvancouver.ca or alternatively by phone at 604-618-7000.

Following up with our previous blog, "move up" homeowners react to asymmetrical price increases with the recent trend in renovating their home rather than moving into bigger, more expensive homes. Take a look below at a list of DIY home renovations that won't break the bank.

[1] Splash of Colour
Fresh paint can easily transform the ambience of a room. The amazing thing about paint is how it can personalize a home without a hefty price tag. It is nearly effortless, comes in an array of colours and shades and best of all, it's cheap! If you're someone who enjoys frequent changes, you can easily create a new look by painting your room again.

Having an accent wall can add character into a room by incorporating a striking design element in your space. You can create a stunning, unique space by painting your accent wall a different color or pattern. To create a bold statement, you can make the accent wall pop by choosing a bold, colorful shade that will accentuate the space without overpowering it. In contrast, you can opt for a sleeker look by designing an accent wall that is a gradual contrast rather than a bold one. Try a color that is a few shades deeper than the rest of your walls. 

If you were to choose one room in your home to renovate, it should be your kitchen! The kitchen is the single most important focal point for most prospective home buyers. Below you will find some money saving tips for kitchen makeovers!

 [2] Cabinetry DIY
Replacing cabinetry can be quite expensive so why not make use of your existing cabinetry? Often times a simple fix-me-up can do the trick. Try refacing or refinishing your cabinets! Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors while keeping the actual cabinet boxes intact. Alternatively, if you have wood cabinets, you could refinish them by sanding down and repainting or staining them.

 [3] Changing up the Countertops
Granite countertops seem daunting due to its price tag but search around for deals at your local retailer or peruse through the clearance section to find quality materials at a fraction of the cost. For large kitchens, perhaps consider less costly alternatives such as Corian, quartz, wood grain or even eco-friendly materials such as bamboo or glass. 

 Next in line in terms of importance to current home owners and future home buyers is the bathroom. 

[4] Bathroom Beautification 
Ceramic tiles are becoming the flooring preference for today's home buyer. Depending on the size of your bathroom, you could find discounted tiles that you can install yourself. In addition to changing the flooring, you can upgrade your vanity and sink. Opt for a pedestal sink and/or freestanding storage cabinets for a cost-effective renovation. To make use of a small space, integrating continuing horizontal lines, a large frameless mirror and strategically placed lighting will create the illusion of having a larger space.

[5] Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space
Beautify the entranceway to your home by amping up your curb appeal. Place planters, shrubbery or flowers along your entrance way to liven up your entrance. Alternatively, you can line the walkway with perennial plants or outdoor lighting fixtures to light up the walkway. Another way to increase the value of your home is with a lawn transformation. Replace your existing lawn with sod (aka turf) to have a luscious green lawn that will be sure to stop traffic.

For all your real estate needs, contact us at info@wesellvancouver.ca or alternatively at 604-801-6654.

For the warmer months, cool down with these tips and perhaps you can put some of that extra cash you save towards a summer vacation. Take a look at our previous blog on how to make improvements in your home to save heat and money. 

Install a Programmable Thermostat
Set it at a lower temperature at night and during the day when you're away. This can be done automatically without sacrificing comfort through the easy installation of a programmable thermostat or an automatic setback. With the former, you can turn on heating or air-conditioning based on a pre-determined schedule. Programmable thermostats are a great way to save on your energy bills as heating and cooling account for about 42% of energy costs. A majority of these costs come from heating and cooling empty or unused spaces. Each degree below 20° saves you 3-5% on heating costs. 

Replace Your Furnace Filter
By replacing your furnace filter, you will optimize performance since clogged filters reduce airflow which in turn causes the furnace to work harder. Most people don't give much thought to furnaces so long as it does its intended purpose. However, for it to perform optimally and prevent possible malfunctions, furnace filters need to be cleaned or changed on a regular basis.

Use Curtains
Windows can be one of your home's most attractive features. Windows provide views, daylighting, ventilation, and heat from the sun in the winter. Unfortunately, they can also account for 10% to 25% of your heating bill by letting heat out. During the warmer months, your air conditioner has to work overtime to cool down hot air from sunny windows. By installing ENERGY STAR®-qualified windows and using curtains and shade, you will be able to hit two birds with one stone by giving both your air conditioner and energy a bit of a break!

Being green saves you green. Stay tuned for additional energy and money saving tips as we will be posting home renovation blogs over the next few months!

One might ask, how is it possible to save money by making home renovations? Follow along and we'll show you how. 

Home Upgrade Rebates Through BC Hydro and FortisBC
There are a variety of incentives and rebate programs available for homeowners who would like to make energy efficient upgrades to their home. The home energy rebate top up contest gives homeowners a chance to win $2,500 towards your upgrades (or a $500 secondary prize). The clock is ticking as the December 12th application deadline is quickly approaching. For additional information on the contest and other available rebates, check out the Home Energy Rebate Top Up Contest.

High-Efficiency Heating System
Opt for systems with the energy-efficient stamp of approval by looking for the ENERGY STAR label. These products help you save energy (and money, in the long-run) while being environmentally responsible. An ENERGY STAR qualified heating system will help you significantly reduce your monthly utility costs. 

Insulation & Weather Stripping
Insulating your home will help keep your heating and cooling systems using the least energy possible. The installation process is typically more important than the material used. One of the most cost-effective ways to keep your home well insulated is to insulate your attic.

Quick Fix Tip: Insulator film is an inexpensive option for temporary use in the winter months. This thin, clear plastic film can be applied to windows as a way to reduce heat transfer. 

Weatherstripping is highly useful for blocking air leaks around doors and windows. They are rubber-esque strips that are designed to work under compression so it is recommended to search for products that are flexible and spring back to their original shape quickly. 

Pipe Insulation
Insulating your pipes and electric hot water tank will minimize heat loss and is a simple way to save energy (and money). Insulating your hot water pipes will help reduce heat loss, as well.

Stay tuned for more money saving tips in our next edition of Home Renovations.

Transform your house into a home by adding a personal flair with a few of these simple & inexpensive DIYs. 

*Image courtesy of nuchylee/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Adding some greenery into your living space in decorative pots can add a bit of a personal touch. Liven up your window sill, coffee table or patio with potted plants as a decorative accent or as a natural air freshener.

*Image courtesy of Stephanie

Who said decorating your home can't be fun? Turn this DIY into an exciting craft project perfect for you and your family. Grab a few canvases and some painting supplies from your local art supplier and create masterpieces that can then be used as an art installation in your home! Nothing says personal touch quite as well as handpainted art pieces. Plus, you can wow your guests with your one-of-a-kind masterpiece, just like the one in the picture above.

As we conclude this 3-part series, we hope these useful tips will become handy to you, whether you're starting from scratch or revamping your current living space. 

Transform your house into a home by adding a personal flair with a few of these simple & inexpensive DIYs. 

*Image courtesy of Sira Anamwong/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Light fixtures can do wonders to transform and illuminate your living space. Opt for energy efficient lighting to not only conserve energy but to also keep your wallet feeling a little fuller. Put in some dimmer switches and programmable panels to adjust your lighting according to your mood. Plus, you can instantly create a warmer ambience by adjusting to dimmer lighting.

On another note, simply changing your switchplate covers can be an inexpensive way to add a little drama into your living space in a subtle way. These decorative accents come in a plethora of designs, colors and materials and can complement key pieces in your living space.

*Image courtesy of Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Let's face it, some of the more outdated houses have bathtubs to match. While the bathtub looks like it's still stuck in the 70s, we are not. Ditch the salmon pink retro style bathtub and have it refurbished to match the decade that we're in. While this is typically not something that would be considered a DIY unless you are equipped with the necessary tools and skills, there are other elements in the bathroom that are simple to do yourself. Replacing faucets and shower heads can instantly add some elegance at an affordable cost.

Stay tuned as we uncover more useful DIY tips in subsequent posts.

Transform your house into a home by adding a personal flair with a few of these simple & inexpensive DIYs. 

*Image courtesy of Stoonn/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Fresh paint can easily transform the ambience of a room. The amazing thing about paint is how it can personalize a home without a hefty price tag. It is nearly effortless, comes in an array of colors and shades and best of all, it's cheap! If you're someone who enjoys frequent changes, you can easily create a new look by painting your room again.

Having an accent wall can add character into a room by incorporating a striking design element in your space. You can create a stunning, unique space by painting your accent wall a different color or pattern. To create a bold statement, you can make the accent wall pop by choosing a bold, colorful shade that will accentuate the space without overpowering it. In contrast, you can opt for a sleeker look by designing an accent wall that is a gradual contrast rather than a bold one. Try a color that is a few shades deeper than the rest of your walls.

*Image courtesy of Sira Anamwong / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Miniscule details such as door knobs, cabinet hardware and hinges are often overlooked despite the fact that they are used on a daily basis. Replacing antique, outdated hardware for modern, sleek ones can transform the look of your cabinets & doors completely. Just like a fresh coat of paint, this DIY is effortless and inexpensive.

Stay tuned as we uncover more useful DIY tips in subsequent posts.