9 Best Home Improvement Projects Under $500

A little can go a long way when it comes to home improvements. For just $500 you can make some big changes to your home.

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shutterstock_553183987 butcher block countertop kitchen island countertop options
pics721/Shutterstock

Build a Kitchen Island

You’ll probably spend more than $500 if you buy a kitchen island and have it installed. But you should stay well under budget if you buy affordable cabinets and go with an inexpensive countertop like butcher block.

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beadbord

Add Beadboard to a Wall or Ceiling

Beadboard is an excellent and inexpensive way to cover up an ugly ceiling or add some pop to an accent wall.

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dragging shower door
Family Handyman

Replace Shower Curtain with Glass Door

Replacing a shower curtain with a glass door or panel will make any bathroom look bigger and add a much more modern look to your bathtub. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to nearly a thousand, so make sure you buy something affordable and stylish.

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quick and easy cabinet doors
Family Handyman

Upgrade Cabinet Doors

Replacing or building new cabinet doors is a cost-effective way to add big value to your kitchen, especially if you live in an older home that hasn’t been updated in awhile.

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Landscaping
Annie Otzen/Getty Images

Boost Curb Appeal With Landscaping

Improving curb appeal is always a great option, and new landscaping is cheaper than adding stone veneer or replacing a window.

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refinish hardwood floors sanding
Family Handyman

Refinish Wood Flooring

You can hire a pro to refinish your wood floors. But for a fraction of the cost, you can rent the needed equipment and tackle the job yourself.

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Install a Kitchen Backsplash

Kitchen backsplash varies drastically by price, but a simple subway tile likely won’t run you a fortune if you DIY the project.

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white subway tile in kitchen open shelves
united photo studio/Shutterstock

Install Open Shelves

Open shelves are trendy and really open up a kitchen. You can buy shelves online or go the DIY route to save a little money.

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porch-money-shot-wm painted concrete lime green front door
Photo: Courtesy of Bella Tucker Design Finishes

Paint Porch Floor or Ceiling

A fresh coat of paint to the porch floor and/or ceiling will pair nicely with a freshly painted or new front door. Consider going big with an interesting pattern, or something neutral for a timeless look.

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Alex Shoemaker
Alex Shoemaker is a Florida-based journalist and  handyman who has extensive experience in home remodeling and house flipping. He has worked for numerous print and digital publications and has won awards for writing, photography and pagination.