A little cash can go a long way in home improvement. Whether you’re looking to update your guest bathroom or entirely remodel your kitchen, there are plenty of budget-friendly updates for every room in your home.

While it may be easy to get out of control as you brainstorm ways to freshen up a space in your home, you can still keep costs at a minimum by choosing projects you can do yourself, and those that keep a tight budget in mind.

Depending on the complexity of the project and your skill level, you may need to hire a professional to complete the work for you. Take into consideration that your price per project may increase when you bring paid labor into the equation. But you don’t need big money for big results when it comes to updating your home.

Take a look at the following home upgrades that you can complete for under $100.

1. A fresh coat of paint. Painting the interior of your home is a small investment that can bring big results. Try adding a bold accent wall in your living room or choosing a neutral shade for your kitchen to instantly brighten up your home. Dressing up a space with a new stylish coat of paint is the perfect weekend project that can give a room a mini makeover, while sticking to a budget.

2. New hardware. Update your kitchen cabinet knobs, front door handle or bathroom drawer pulls for a quick cosmetic fix that can transform a room. Replacing hardware in a room is an inexpensive home improvement option that can give cabinets and doors a fresh look with little change and effort.
Try mixing and matching different decorative knobs for extra style points. Some hardware, like dresser knobs, can be purchased for only a few dollars and are easy to install on your own. But for bigger replacements – those that require changing locks and installing new strike plates on doors, for example – you may benefit from the help of a professional who’s familiar with securing new hardware.

3. Install a backsplash. Switch out your current kitchen or bathroom backsplash with tile, paint, wood or wallpaper for an inexpensive home upgrade. A backsplash on a budget can be both functional and fashionable. Popular styles known to be budget-friendly include classic subway tile, wood panels and chalk paint. You can even create a mosaic backsplash with peel-and-stick tile to add style and character to your home without having to increase the total cost of the project.

4. Boost curb appeal. Make a great first impression by enhancing your home’s entryway. You can get instant curb appeal for under $100 with a few small, do-it-yourself home improvement projects. Simple projects include painting your door a new color and replacing your house numbers with a new, fresh font. Or add a few simple touches that can be swapped out seasonally – lay out a welcome mat, add a wreath to the front door or plant flowers in decorate pots to accent each side of the porch.

5. Upgrade lighting fixtures. You can refresh a room by bringing in new options for overhead and accent lighting. Switch out your old dining room light with a new decorative fixture – chandeliers may look expensive, but can cost $50 or less at stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. For a quick and even less expensive fix, swap out your lamp shades on floor or table lighting, and replace your switch plates and outlet covers.

6. Accessorize with decor. Accessories can transform a room by adding personality and charm. You can bring a room to life by incorporating decor items that require little physical effort, and can easily be swapped out to fit the mood, season or theme you’d like to convey in the space. Trays, baskets, bins, candles, an accent mirror and throw pillows are all inexpensive items that can perk up a space for cheap.

Easy Home Upgrades for Under $100 by Mady Dahlstrom | MSN Real Estate