Leslie Cain: 10 home improvement projects under $100

Home improvement projects do not have to break the bank. In fact, there are numerous projects you can embark on for under $100 that will enhance your home inside and out, including the following:

Paint your trim, front door or shutters: Unless you have a very large home, it should not take you more than $100 to paint your trim, shutters and/or front door. Adding fresh paint to these areas will greatly enhance your curb appeal.

Turn a closet into an office: Simply remove the closet door (or doors) and switch out the hanging rods for shelves. You can use a larger shelf to make the desktop and install smaller shelves above for storage.

Tidy up the fireplace: Give your fireplace a detailed cleaning and, if necessary, paint the mantle or trim for a new look. Consider purchasing a new screen and/or tools and accompaniments.

Create your own mudroom: Do you need a mudroom but do not have an extra room for one? Create a mud area by using an area of the garage or other room. Install stickdown tiles, add a shoe rack, shelves and a few hooks to hang coats and hats.

Make your bathrooms shine: It is relatively inexpensive to replace a toilet seat, add fresh grout in the shower and bath, and/or replace chipped tiles. Just doing these few things can make your bathroom sparkle.

Update exterior light fixtures: Outside light fixtures enhance the exterior of your house and make your entryway safer. Save time and money by purchasing new fixtures that have the same mounting system as the current ones.

Add a mirror: Hang a large mirror in the entry way or living room to create an illusion of more space and light. Look for deals and you can find a new mirror for under $100, or a vintage one for even less.

Paint dark brick or paneling: Do you have a family room or bedroom with exposed dark-colored brick or paneling? Considering whitewashing the brick or painting the paneling a light color to give the room a brighter look.

Accessorize with new decor: Fresh accessories can transform a room by adding color and charm. Add a new rug with matching throw pillows, or fun bins and baskets to store magazines and toys.

Change out an old faucet: Update your kitchen or bathroom sink by changing out your old faucet for a new one. Check your local hardware store for sales and markdowns on discounted models.

For more homeowner information or to find a licensed real estate professional, contact the Sierra Nevada Realtors at 775-885-7200 or www.sierranevadarealtors.org. Sierra Nevada Realtors is the voice of real estate in Carson City and the surrounding areas. They are committed to building better communities throughout the region, and participating in the political process to protect the industry as well as private property rights.

Leslie Cain is president of the Sierra Nevada Realtors and a Realtor with RE/MAX Realty Affiliates in Carson City. Cain has been active in the real estate industry for nearly 14 years and is very passionate about the Northern Nevada community. She holds several certifications including Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) and Senior’s Real Estate Specialist (SRES). Cain can be reached at leslie@lesliecain.com or 775-781-1386.