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    14 Easy (and Affordable) Home Upgrades You Can Do Before the Holidays

    We all know the feeling of looking around the house and wanting to make a few changes... As this year begins to wrap up...

    • Eric Marcus
    • November 18th, 2020
    • 4 min read
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    We all know the feeling of looking around the house and wanting to make a few changes...

    As this year begins to wrap up and with the holidays right around the corner you may be wanting to upgrade a few things around the house. From simple DIY projects like changing the kitchen knobs to painting your tile, we've] compiled a list of 14 easy (and affordable) upgrades you can make both inside and outside of your home before the holidays. 

    Replace Your Cabinet Pulls

    Updating the knobs or pulls on your cabinets is a relatively simple but impactful way to add a modern touch to your home, especially if they are outdated. 

    Estimated Price: $50-$100. There are tons of options on Amazon.

    Curtains

    Adding curtains can make your windows look bigger, your ceilings look taller, and add privacy throughout your home. Try placing the rod a foot above your window for added height!

    Paint

    A fresh coat of paint may be one of the easiest upgrades you can make. Whether it's getting rid of those bright colors for a more calming feel or adding in a fun statement, you can't go wrong.

    Privacy Landscaping

    If your backyard doesn't offer much privacy from the neighbors consider adding in shrubs or hanging plants to block the view in a visually appealing way.

    Lighting

    Replacing outdated sconces, upgrading your bathroom vanity lights, or simply replacing your light bulbs for ones with a different hue can elevate your space.

    Suggestion: Phillips Hue Lightbulbs

    Front Door Makeover

    The entrance of your home is an important aspect of curb appeal and if you're trying to make a statement, making over your front door might be the best way to do that. There are tons of options so consider the style throughout the rest of your home when choosing a new door. Don't underestimate what a can of paint can do either - black doors are very on-trend right now! 

    Floating Shelves 

    For a modern, open look that displays your beautiful dishes consider adding a few floating shelves to an empty kitchen wall.

    Hide the Wires

    You'd be surprised how big of a difference organizing your wires can impact how put together your home looks.

    Suggestion: $17.99 for a cord cover kit.

    Paint Your Tile

    Does your bathroom tile lack luster? Spend the day painting on a pattern and elevate your flooring without demolition.

    New House Numbers

    This seems simple, but adding a modern house number can have a large impact if you're making other curb appeal upgrades at the same time.

    The Frame TV

    Make your TV look like a piece of art by investing in a Frame TV. Offering frame and art options this is one of the pricier items on the list but it will surely elevate your space. 

    Under Cabinet Lights

    Not only will this add a warm element to your kitchen, gone are the days of not being able to see your cookbook.

    Upgraded Gallery Wall

    Is your gallery wall full of mismatched frames? Upgrade to one style and size for a cohesive, elevated look.

    Front Porch Fun 

    Spruce up your front porch or entryway by adding a seasonal wreath, a fun welcome mat, or new furniture.

    Suggestion: Interchangeable Welcome Sign

    DIY May Not be Enough...

    A DIY project may not do the trick if you're trying to squeeze into a space that is just too small or doesn't meet your current needs. If you're considering selling before the holidays, let's get started.

    Click Here

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    About the author

    Eric Marcus

    773-732-9898
    I was born in South Bend, Indiana where my family owned and operated a small business for over 50 years. Every member of my family has been licensed to practice real estate, and my dad owns a real estate company in Indiana. After graduating with honors from Indiana University in 1991, I earned my CPA and worked for a big six accounting firm in Chicago. Combining my experience and entrepreneurial spirit, I started my own successful accounting business that I ran for 3 years. Next, I embarked on a career as a soybean trader at the Chicago Board of Trade, followed by a successful run as a stock options market maker at the Chicago Board of Options Exchange. I began my real estate career in 2003 as broker/owner of ESM Realty. My team has helped more than 600 clients buy and sell condominiums, townhouses, single family homes, multi-unit residential, and commercial properties. For 14 straight years, we were recognized by Chicago Association of Realtors as Top Producers. Our extensive marketing program includes premium placement on hundreds of websites, morechicagohomes.com and state of the art Facebook advertising. My team works tirelessly to make each client feel like they are our only client! We strive for the highest level of performance every day so that we exceed your highest expectations. Our business is 75%+ referral-based and we want you to not only be our client but our biggest raving fan. In December 2020, I brought my team to Keller Williams ONEChicago with branches in Lincoln Park, Lakeview and O'Hare. To set up a consultation or if you have any questions, please contact me at 773-732-9898.

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    1525 W. Belmont Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657

    773-732-9898
    [email protected]

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