Maybe you have just received a tax refund, a bonus from work, or an alimony payment. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, in 2016, around 243,000 people received alimony payments, with 98 percent being women. Regardless of the source of your extra cash, you may be wondering what to do with it. One option is to spend it on home improvements. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Update Your Kitchen Countertops
If your kitchen countertops are outdated or damaged, consider replacing them. Countertops can be a focal point in a kitchen and can add value to your home. There are many types of countertops to choose from, including granite, marble, quartz, and laminate.
If you are on a budget, you may want to consider updating your countertops with a laminate overlay. This is a process where a thin laminate layer is applied to your existing countertops. Laminate overlays are affordable and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
2. Upgrade Your Lighting
One way to improve your home without spending a lot of money is to upgrade your lighting. For example, swap out your old light fixtures for new ones. You can also add floor lamps or table lamps to brighten up dark corners.
If you have the money, consider investing in some high-quality LED lights. They use less energy and last longer than traditional light bulbs. LED lights are also a great choice for outdoor lighting. They can be used to illuminate your porch, driveway, or yard.
3. Repaint Your House
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home. Not only will it make it look new again, but it can also brighten up the entire space. Choose a color that makes you happy and inspires you every time you walk into your home. If you’re not sure what color to choose, consider using a paint color visualizer to help you out. This will allow you to see what different colors will look like in your home before you decide.
Once you’ve picked out a color, be sure to use the right paint for the job. If you’re painting the exterior of your home, choose durable paint that can withstand the weather. If you’re painting the interior, choose a paint that is non-toxic and safe for children and pets.
4. Landscape Your Yard
Landscaping your yard is a great way to improve the look and feel of your home. You can add plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees to make your yard more inviting. You can also add features like a patio or deck to create an outdoor space for relaxing or entertaining guests.
Consider hiring a professional landscaper to design and install your new yard if you have the money to spare. If you’re on a budget, you can do it yourself by researching landscaping ideas online. No matter how you choose to landscape your yard, it will be sure to add value to your home (by up to 14%).
5. Invest in Greywater Systems
If you’re looking for a more sustainable way to improve your home, consider investing in a greywater system. A greywater system recycles used water from your sinks, showers, and washing machines and uses it to irrigate your garden or lawn. Greywater systems are becoming more and more popular as people become more conscious of their environmental impact. They are also a great way to save money on your water bill.
The only better wastewater technology involves the use of dissolved air floatation devices. This equipment effectively removes fats, oils, residues (FOG), and suspended solids (TSS) from wastewater.
6. Finish Your Basement
If you have an unfinished basement, consider finishing it. A finished basement can add a lot of value to your home. It can be used as a family room, home office, or guest bedroom. Remember to waterproof your basement before finishing it. This will protect your home from water damage and will help keep your basement dry.
These are just a few of the many home improvement ideas you can use to spend your extra cash on. No matter what you choose, be sure to research your options and make sure you are getting the best possible deal. Happy renovating!
