Whether you’re looking to take advantage of the current red-hot real estate market or just trying to increase the equity in your home, here are six renovations that will help get you there without breaking the bank.

SMOOTH VS. TEXTURED CEILINGS

Often overlooked, a smooth ceiling can be your secret weapon. Textured ceilings can look very dated and discoloured over time. Scraping off the stucco can be a very messy job, but it is well worth the effort. Nothing looks more elegant and appealing than a clean, smooth ceiling.

POT LIGHTS & OUTLETS

Pot lights can quickly brighten up a room and make it look much larger. Installing some in a well thought out manner, considering dimmers and separate controls will bring your home to the next level. While you’re at it, changing all the receptacles and switches to a ‘Decora’ or similar style will make your home look complete.

DOORS & WINDOWS

Energy efficiency is not the only benefit when installing new windows and doors. This upgrade will also elevate the curb appeal and value of your home. Along with the roof, this is one of the items people look at when negotiating a purchase price.

BASEBOARD & TRIM

Replacing your floors can be a big undertaking and can get very costly. An easier way to give your floors a facelift is to replace the old original baseboard and door casings with a more modern or elegant style. This can elevate the look of any home and can give your old floors new life.

ADDING SPACE

Taking down a non-loadbearing wall will definitely create an open concept, but this is not always an option. Finishing the basement - even just closing off the perimeter walls and ceiling with drywall and paint - will not only increase your living space but can add value to your home.

KITCHEN UPGRADES

No list would be complete without the kitchen. Though a full out renovation can be expensive and time consuming, there are simple solutions to this. Re-facing your cabinet with new doors and handles is a quick and easy way to upgrade your kitchen. So is changing the counter top for something new, maybe a quartz or solid material.