7 Things You Can Actually Cut Corners on During a Home Renovation, According to Experts

In a perfect world, your home would be, well, perfect. In reality, that’s a bit more complicated. For most potential sellers, budgeting is crucial, especially with the ever-changing state of the housing market.

Whether you’re building from the ground up or renovating your existing home, there are some expert-approved corners to cut that’ll make your costs slightly more palatable. By putting a bit less into your home, you can also potentially get more out of it later if you decide to sell. There are some areas, however, that homeowners should prioritize and spend more money on.

“I’ve noticed that people really care about the kitchen and primary bath,” says Tim Carr of Tim Carr Group in Costa Mesa, California. “The kitchen, in particular, is a place where you get a lot of return, because you spend so much time in there.” 

But what about the features in your home that don’t require as much attention or updating? Here are the places you could spend less on if you don’t have the budget, according to three experts:

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1. Appliances

Kitchens are a key factor in the home-buying process, but purchasing “good, but not great appliances” is one suggestion from Carr.

2. Kitchen Cabinets and Hardware

Kitchens make a big difference, but you don’t necessarily need to gut yours, says Susie Novak, founder and principal designer of Susie Novak Interiors.

“If your kitchen cabinets are in good condition, you can keep the existing carcasses, repaint them, replace the cabinet fronts, and update the hardware to achieve an entirely fresh look,” she says.

Carr adds that you can also shop around for hardware—don’t be afraid to go with lesser-known brands!

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3. Electronic Systems

Good news: You don’t have to transform your home into a real-life Smart House to get a return on your investment. Carr says you can opt for a more basic Lutron system to save on your project. Plus, he’s seen people gravitate toward manual shades versus motorized versions to cut back on their budget.

4. Flooring

Hardwood flooring is beautiful and luxurious… and quite expensive. Novak says homeowners can rest easy with this trend forecast: Carpeting is coming back in style. Even better, it’s also a great way to save while updating your home. “Carpet the bedrooms and save the hardwood floors for the rest of the house!” she says.

5. Intricate Tiling 

Novak also recommends cutting the cost of labor required for your renovation or new build. For instance, small, delicate tiles or ones that create intricate patterns like herringbone will involve more time and money. If you choose larger tiles, you’ll inevitably save on costs.

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6. Light Fixtures

Harrison White of Mason Taylor Associates in Newport Beach, California, says things like chandeliers and sconces are nice-to-have features that you don’t need to spend thousands on. 

“There are tons of options when it comes to a statement lighting piece, besides the boring can lights,” he says. “You could pay anywhere from $10,000 to $10 for a sconce, but my recommendation is go on Amazon and look for pieces under your budget and pick something that suits your style. The reason you can get away without splurging on these is because there’s no heavy wear and tear—they simply hang on the wall, or from the ceiling for years without being touched!”