Small Renovation, Big Impact:
Ideas for Quick Home Upgrades
Just snagged your first home or itching to spruce up your space?
As a first-home buyer or a DIY renovator, you don't need a wrecking ball to make your property pop. Small upgrades can pack a punch, boosting your home’s vibe and value without draining your wallet. At PACE, with 30+ years of hands-on experience and a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) keeping things tight, we love seeing Kiwis transform their homes.
Here are five quick renovation ideas to give your place a freshen-up, plus a heads-up on when to call in the pros for trickier bits like leaky homes or compliance woes.
Let’s get your home pacing ahead! 🏡✨
Why Creating Small Renovations Win
Big renovations can feel like climbing Mount Everest, especially for first-timers or DIY enthusiasts. But small, strategic upgrades are like a morning coffee hit, they are quick, effective, and oh-so-satisfying. These projects take days, not months, and keep your budget happier than a kid with a lolly stash. Ready to dive in? Here’s how to make a big impact with minimal fuss.
1. Paint with Purpose
A fresh coat of paint is the DIY equivalent of a magic wand. It’s cheap, fast, and transforms any room from drab to fab.
Pro Tip: Stick to neutral tones like soft greys or warm whites for broad appeal (think resale value!). Accent walls in bold hues add personality without overwhelming.
DIY Hack: Prep like a pro - sand, prime, and tape for crisp lines. Shoddy prep is like cooking without seasoning: it just won’t sing.
PACE Alert: Spotted bubbling paint? It could signal a leaky home issue. Contact us to scope it before you paint over a problem.
2. Light It Up
Bad lighting is the mood-killer of home design. Swap dated fixtures for modern LEDs or statement pendants to brighten your space and your spirits.
Pro Tip: Layer lighting - ceiling lights for function, lamps for coziness, and dimmers for vibe control.
DIY Hack: Why not splash out on some plug in smart LED strip lighting to place under kitchen cabinetry or furniture, along walkways or to accent shelving or plants – think Philips Hue to show off your tech savvy talents
PACE Alert: Flickering lights or old wiring? That’s a job for pros to avoid fire hazards. We can assess and advise with our team of experts - reach out.
3. Refresh Kitchen or Bathroom Hardware
New cabinet handles, faucets, or drawer pulls are like jewellery for your kitchen or bathroom - small changes, massive style points.
Pro Tip: Go for brushed nickel or matte black for a timeless look. Match finishes for a cohesive feel.
DIY Hack: Measure twice, drill once. Mismatched holes are a rookie mistake that’s hard to un-drill.
PACE Alert: Leaky faucets or damp cabinets? Could be a sign of bigger plumbing issues. Let PACE scope it to keep your reno on track.
4. Tidy Up Landscaping
Curb appeal is your home’s first handshake. A quick garden tidy-up or a fresh deck stain can make your property say "welcome" instead of "work in progress."
Pro Tip: Trim overgrown shrubs, add mulch, and pop in low-maintenance plants like natives or mondo grasses, lavender or hebe for an instant lift. Adding bark or river stones reduces weeds thereby lowering ongoing maintenance.
DIY Hack: Rent a pressure washer for a sparkling driveway or deck – not only does it look amazing afterwards it’s also oddly satisfying.
PACE Alert: Sagging decks or cracked paths? Structural issues might lurk. Our LBP-led team can check for safety - get in touch.
5. Patch and Repair Walls
Dings, dents, ripped or outdated wallpaper can make a home feel tired. A bit of patching and a fresh vibe can work wonders.
Pro Tip: Use pre-mixed filler for small holes and sand smooth before painting. Practice patching on scrap board first, a smooth finishes take commitment.
DIY Hack: Peelable wall paper or stick on slat wall panels is a trending and cheap alternative, and great for those who like to mix things up often.
PACE Alert: Cracks wider than a hairline or recurring damp spots? Could be structural or leaky home issues. Let PACE investigate before you cover them up.
Ready to Upgrade with PACE?
Small and simple renovations can make your first home or DIY project shine, but don’t let hidden issues like leaks or non-compliance steal the show.
PACE’s 30+ years of expertise and LBP oversight ensure your upgrades stay smart and safe.
Need a scope or professional help?
Email us at info@propertyadvice.co.nz or call us on 021 114 4264 for assistance.
Let’s get your home glowing ✨
