If your home needs an update, don't assume that you'll have to spend lots of money or commit to time-consuming and messy overhauls. Our real estate agents know many cost-effective ways to refresh your space, whether you're staging your home for sale or would like to make your current home more attractive, and they're happy to share what they've learned over the years.

Here are a few options to try out in your home. 

1. Update the Contents of Your Bookshelves
   A jumbled mix of titles in an overstuffed bookshelf takes away from your decor and makes your home look more cluttered and overcrowded. Instead of using bookshelves just for books, add in some knick-knacks that you display off-center. You can also mix framed photos and art in with your books. And don't feel as though you have to display all of your books as if they were on a library shelf. Place some in horizontal stacks, letting them function as bookends, or make a pyramid of books and display a favorite collectible on the top. You can also choose to arrange your books by color to create a more cohesive display.
   
   
2. Add a Statement Wall
   A statement wall can transform an entire room and give you the chance to use a color or pattern that might be overwhelming if it were used on every wall. Try painting one wall in a playful pattern, in your favorite color, or in a bold hue. If you're concerned you might regret the change, look for a removable wallpaper you can apply and later easily remove if you change your mind.
   
   
3. Swap Your Furniture and Decor Around
   Refreshing your home's appearance can be as simple as moving what you have. In your main living area, move your sofa by the window, or move furniture away from the walls to create a closer, cozier layout. You can also swap smaller pieces of furniture and accents like artwork or throw pillows from room to room.
   
   
4. Add Strategically Placed Mirrors
   Mirrors can make rooms look larger and brighter than they really are, so adding some to your decor can make a big impact on the appearance of a room. A decorative mirror - or several small ones - can also add style to any room. For example, swapping out an old bathroom mirror for one with a fun or ornate frame can give your bathroom a more interesting, updated look.
   
   
5. Bring in Some Rugs
   Rugs can help define a space while adding warmth and visual interest to a room. Try adding a soft rug to a bedroom that has hardwood floors, or choose an area rug in interesting colors or patterns to refresh a room. Experiment with its placement by laying it out diagonally for a different look. You can also change the position of the rugs or swap them from room to room if you'd like an additional change in the future.
   
   
6. Create a Reading Nook
   If you have an unused corner in your living room or bedroom, use the space to create an inviting reading nook. All you need is a comfortable chair, an accent table, and a lamp for the basics, which you can spruce up with pillows and throws for additional comfort and style.

Contact us if you have Livingston County, Michigan, real estate needs. Our company has provided top-quality service to the area for over 35 years and would be pleased to help you buy or sell a home in the area or conduct other real estate transactions.