We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience and deliver our services. By continuing to visit this site, you agree to our use of cookies.More info
ALANTE Real EstateALANTE Real Estate
Call Us:

508-746-0033

Message Us:

[email protected]

LET'S CONNECT
  • Meet us
  • Buy with us
  • Sell with us
  • Explore the South Shore
  • Explore Cape Cod
  • Blog
  • Join us
  • Contact us
  • Search for Homes
  • Download Our App | Google
  • Download Our App | Apple
    • Call Us:

      508-746-0033

    • Message Us:

      [email protected]

    Featured Image
    Home Trends

    14 Easy (and Affordable) Home Upgrades You Can Do Before the Holidays

    We all know the feeling of looking around the house and wanting to make a few changes... As this year begins to wrap up...

    • Susana Murphy
    • November 12th, 2020
    • 4 min read

    We all know the feeling of looking around the house and wanting to make a few changes...

    As this year begins to wrap up and with the holidays right around the corner you may be wanting to upgrade a few things around the house. From simple DIY projects like changing the kitchen knobs to painting your tile, we've compiled a list of 14 easy (and affordable) upgrades you can make both inside and outside of your home before the holidays. 

    Replace Your Cabinet Pulls

    Updating the knobs or pulls on your cabinets is a relatively simple but impactful way to add a modern touch to your home, especially if they are outdated. 

    Estimated Price: $50-$100. There are tons of options on Amazon.

    Curtains

    Adding curtains can make your windows look bigger, your ceilings look taller, and add privacy throughout your home. Try placing the rod a foot above your window for added height!

    Paint

    A fresh coat of paint may be one of the easiest upgrades you can make. Whether it's getting rid of those bright colors for a more calming feel or adding in a fun statement, you can't go wrong.

    Privacy Landscaping

    If your backyard doesn't offer much privacy from the neighbors consider adding in shrubs or hanging plants to block the view in a visually appealing way.

    Lighting

    Replacing outdated sconces, upgrading your bathroom vanity lights, or simply replacing your light bulbs for ones with a different hue can elevate your space.

    Suggestion: Phillips Hue Lightbulbs

    Front Door Makeover

    The entrance of your home is an important aspect of curb appeal and if you're trying to make a statement, making over your front door might be the best way to do that. There are tons of options so consider the style throughout the rest of your home when choosing a new door. Don't underestimate what a can of paint can do either - black doors are very on-trend right now! 

    Floating Shelves

    For a modern, open look that displays your beautiful dishes consider adding a few floating shelves to an empty kitchen wall.

    Hide the Wires

    You'd be surprised how big of a difference organizing your wires can impact how put together your home looks.

    Suggestion: $17.99 for a cord cover kit.

    Paint Your Tile

    Does your bathroom tile lack luster? Spend the day painting on a pattern and elevate your flooring without demolition.

    New House Numbers

    This seems simple, but adding a modern house number can have a large impact if you're making other curb appeal upgrades at the same time.

    The Frame TV

    Make your TV look like a piece of art by investing in a Frame TV. Offering frame and art options this is one of the pricier items on the list but it will surely elevate your space. 

    Under Cabinet Lights

    Not only will this add a warm element to your kitchen, gone are the days of not being able to see your cookbook.

    Upgraded Gallery Wall

    Is your gallery wall full of mismatched frames? Upgrade to one style and size for a cohesive, elevated look.

    Front Porch Fun 

    Spruce up your front porch or entryway by adding a seasonal wreath, a fun welcome mat, or new furniture.

    Suggestion: Interchangeable Welcome Sign

    DIY May Not be Enough...

    A DIY project may not do the trick if you're trying to squeeze into a space that is just too small or doesn't meet your current needs. If you're considering selling before the holidays, let's get started.

    Click Here

    Author Photo
    About the author

    Susana Murphy

    508-345-5632
    • facebook
    • instagram
    Susana Murphy has advised buyers and sellers across Massachusetts since 2005. She is the founder of ALANTE Real Estate | Real Broker, a boutique team serving Boston, including Back Bay, the South Shore and Upper Cape Cod. Susana works with clients buying and selling custom homes, waterfront properties, golf course communities, Back Bay brownstones and luxury condos. Her approach combines strategic marketing, careful negotiation and long-term relationships, which is why so many clients return for their next move. She has more than $300M in personal career sales, and the ALANTE team has surpassed $800M in sales. Susana is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) and GUILD member since 2010, and also holds the CRS, ABR, CDPE, SIOR and CIAS designations. Recognition includes Boston Agent Magazine Who's Who (2024, 2025, 2026), Top 100 South Shore Boston Real Producers (2024, 2025, 2026), Real Broker Elite (2024, 2025, 2026), Best of Boston (2024, 2025, 2026), Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts (2023) and Best Places to Work, Cape & Plymouth Media (2023, 2024). ALANTE has earned more than 300 five-star Google reviews. Originally from northern Spain, Susana works with clients in English and Spanish.

    Similar posts like this

    Boston

    Back Bay Roof Deck Rules: Roof Rights, Stairs, Permits & Value

    Can you add a roof deck or staircase to a Back Bay condo? Learn how roof rights, condo documents, BBAC approval, Boston ...
    Read more
    WHY THEY COME BACK

    WHY THEY COME BACK | ISSUE 01

    Can you over-improve a home for its neighborhood? Susana Murphy shares a real Kingston, MA case study on luxury pricing,...
    Read more
    In The News

    Tips for First-Time Homebuyers in South Shore Communities

    Explore essential tips for first-time homebuyers in South Shore communities, from budgeting and financing to finding the...
    Read more
    ALANTE Real Estate

    The next generation of modern luxury on the South Shore & Cape Cod

    ALANTE Real Estate

    Serving the Boston, Coastal South Shore from Hull to Plymouth + Cape Cod communities.

    Serving the Boston, Coastal South Shore from Hull to Plymouth + Cape Cod communities.

    Call Us:

    508-746-0033

    Message Us:

    [email protected]

    Footer Links

    • About
    • Careers
    • Seller Services
    • Blog
    • Buyer Services
    • Search for Homes
    • In The Press
    • Contact Us
    • Download Our App | Apple
    • Download Our App | Google
    Privacy Policy

    ALANTE Real Estate © 2026

    Powered by