Have you cleaned out your closet lately? Ditched that stuff with the price tags still in tact from a clearance rack circa the Reagan Administration? It feels good to update, doesn’t it? Clear out the old – create a vacuum for something new and fresh.

 

Now, take that spunky attitude with you and head into the kitchen. Got any especially tired looking countertops or appliances in there? How’s the hardware?

 

Embracing brutal honesty, I will share with you that I have in my kitchen round green ceramic pull knobs on all the cabinet doors and drawers – 42 altogether. It was quite the style statement pre Y2K. But it’s time, I reluctantly admit, for a change.

 

Is it time for an update anywhere in your home?? Don’t wait until you’re ready to sell and have to scoop a professional stager up off your shag carpeting to consider a little make-over here and there.  Ask yourself the following:

 

• Is the color mauve on any flat surface in my house? (My apologies to the fans of this sulky southwestern shade.) 
• Do I have carpet abutting any toilet, shower or bathtub? (I know builders love to put it there. But come on …)
• Are round green ceramic pull knobs visible anywhere but on storage cabinets in the garage? (Some interior style fouls qualify for foster care in subtle locations on the perimeter.)

 

If you’ve answered “yes” (but not “I wish”) to any of the preceding, don’t worry. There are lots of great ways to update your home inexpensively!

• Look for cool new hardware in multipacks. Target has some nice options in satin nickel, oiled bronze, etc. (Better value than buying individually.)
• Go for fresh color.  Carefully chosen color can really transform a room cost-effectively. (Just don’t rely on the paint chip alone. Buy a quart and give it a test run before you commit to the wrong five gallons. That’s when it gets expensive!)
• Lose the clutter. Stacks of newspapers, piles of DVDs, and an overabundance of knick-knackery keep your home from looking spry. (Have a garage sale and use the $$ to ditch the carpet in the bathroom and add tile!)

 

Give your home the same style check you give your wardrobe every now and then. Both of you will look and feel better for it.