Contractors Say These Are The Smartest Home Upgrades You Can Make For Under $35

When decor inspiration strikes, you might have a lightbulb moment — in more ways than one. “One of the simplest and most cost-efficient smart upgrades involves substituting outdated incandescent bulbs with energy-saving LED bulbs,” says Matt Little, owner of Festoon House.

These vintage-inspired bulbs offer 500 lumens of cool white light while saving up to 91% on energy costs, according to the brand. With a lifespan of up to 11 years or more, they're perfect for any space. Dimmable for just the right effect, they can be customized to match any mood.

Keep your energy bill low by ensuring no lights get left on unnecessarily. “The inclusion of motion sensors in your lighting setup can boost your home's energy efficiency,” says Little.

These motion-sensor light bulbs have the sensor built right in, so there’s no tricky fuss in setting them up. They automatically turn on when motion is detected within 14.7 feet and switch off after 30 seconds of no motion. Plus, they only activate when it's dark, saving energy.

If your Alexa won’t play nice with your Google assistant (or any other cross-platform device) you can make them get along with the help of this smart switch. Elizabeth Vergara, founder and lead contractor/designer of Vergara Homes, says, “With the integration of Matter technology, this light switch becomes a powerful addition to your smart home ecosystem. Matter is an open-source, universal smart home standard supported by major tech companies, ensuring that your devices work together seamlessly.”

Installation of the switch is a breeze with guided instructions. Enjoy voice control, scheduling, timers, ambiance-setting, and more for a convenient and efficient smart home.

Todd Saunders, CEO of FlooringStores, says, “One simple smart home device you can incorporate into your home [...] is a Wyze Bulb Color. It offers an astoundingly large array of color options as well as the ability to dim on command, making it easy to adjust your room's lighting to your exact specifications. The accompanying app is very user-friendly, and the lightbulbs can easily sync with Alexa or Google Assistant for seamless voice control.”

These smart bulbs come in a pack of two. With 16 million colors at your fingertips, you can create the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

Prone to misplacing your keys? Niki O'Brien, operations manager at Custom Exteriors, has the solution for you. “These keyless deadbolts are a must these days. They are so much more convenient and sometimes allow for temporary codes. This makes granting access when you aren't home so much easier.”

This illuminated keypad lock is a breeze to install and runs on four AA batteries. You can give pet sitters, guests, and family members easy access with up to 20 user codes. Set the door to auto-lock for peace of mind. It’s weather-resistant and has a beautiful, oil-rubbed bronze finish.

Harness the power of the sun affordably with solar-powered flood lights. “They are often motion-activated and totally powered by the sun. Because of this, they are a great eco-friendly option,” says O’Brien. “They are also simple to install and require only a drill and sunlight access.”

These solar-powered dusk-to-dawn lights charge during the day and activate at night with a 120-degree motion sensor, lighting up a 26.2 foot range. You can choose from four adjustable modes for customized lighting. With 106 high-intensity LEDs and a weatherproof design, these lights work well in any outdoor area.

A flooded basement is a homeowner’s nightmare, but you can head such a catastrophe off at the pass. “I love recommending smart plumbing fixtures to clients, like smart faucets and smart water leak detectors,” says Mike Grijalva, journeyman plumber and owner of Sacramento Plumbing Solutions. “These products are great for water conservation and catching smaller leaks before they become bigger problems.”

These easy-to-use water detectors are wireless, compact, and require no setup. You can adjust the alarm audio from 0 to 100 decibels to suit your needs and get alerted when the battery is low. They’re IP66 waterproof, perfect for high-moisture areas like basements and bathrooms.

“I think a really great idea, especially if you want to spend as little money and time as possible, is painting an accent wall,” says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy Painters Naperville. “Accent walls are a great way to add depth, dimension, and intrigue to a space — and all it requires is to paint one single wall, not an entire room, so it can be accomplished pretty quickly.”

Revamp indoor and outdoor surfaces with this versatile latex paint. It adheres beautifully to wood, metal, plaster, masonry, or unglazed ceramic. Its low-odor, water-based acrylic formula dries quickly in just 30 minutes and resists chipping. This paint has over 17,000 five-star ratings on Amazon and is available in 29 colors.

The only drafts I want in my home are related to fantasy football. “Adding weather stripping to the edges of your doors and windows is an inexpensive way to reduce energy costs in your home,” says Mark Buskuhl, founder & CEO of Ninebird Properties in Dallas, Texas. “This will block out any drafts or air leaks, keeping your home more comfortable year-round.”

Crafted to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and UV exposure, this sealing tape provides airtight sealing against air and water infiltration for windows. You can achieve professional results easily thanks to its pressure-sensitive adhesive and anti-curling backing. Perfect for wood, metal, and aluminum surfaces, it is residue-free.

“Swapping out outdated faucets is an easy way to instantly upgrade the look of any bathroom,” says Buskuhl. “Plus, you can find high-end fixtures for surprisingly low prices. Be sure to check the connection size before you buy to make sure your new faucet will fit the pipes in your sink.”

This chic basin faucet comes in a gold, black, or brushed nickel finish. Made from stainless steel, this minimalist faucet has a single-handle design that makes it easy to adjust temperature and water flow. Plus, it has a built-in aerator, providing a smooth, non-splashing stream.

Smart outlets are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade your home. “They may look like regular adapters or extension cords, but unlike regular adapters, they allow you to remotely control your appliances and set their schedules from your smartphone,” says Jimmy Hiller, CEO of Happy Hiller.

Compatible with Alexa and Google Home Assistant, you can use voice commands to manage electronic devices with these smart plugs. Set-up is easy with the Kasa app and a Wi-Fi connection. Schedule devices like lamps and fans to turn on and off automatically, and control your outlets remotely, whether you're at home, work, or on vacation.

“Display your favorite artwork or family photos by creating a gallery wall” says Adrian Cruz, co-owner At Columbus Concrete Co. “Use inexpensive frames or repurpose old ones, and arrange them in a visually appealing layout. This project adds a personal touch to your space and can be easily adjusted or updated over time.”

This set of four 8x10 picture frames is sturdy yet stylish. Made from solid wood, they add a streamlined look to any space. Hang them on the wall with built-in hangers or place them on a tabletop with the kickstand easel. They come in a range of chic colors, so there’s an option to match any wall.

Who knew Homer Simpson’s favorite snack could make such a stylish statement piece? “I love a minimal-yet-chic hollow donut ceramic vase on the center coffee table,” says Graham Hill, realtor at Find Hokkaido Agents. “One can decorate it with fresh flowers to add a pop of color to the space”

Handmade with frosted clay, these ceramic vases complement various decor styles. Perfect for pampas grass, dried flowers, or reeds, they fit any room — try it on the dining table or a bedroom dresser. The set includes two vases in different sizes.

It’s a TikTok rule that we never “turn on the big light” — aka the overhead light in a room. Dan Bailey, President of WikiLawn Tampa Lawn Care, understands: “Sometimes homeowners enjoy a little lighting in their kitchen, but the kitchen light is often too bright and unnecessary. There are strips of LED lights that can easily be arranged under cabinets that give some good, easy lighting, letting homeowners avoid blinding themselves when they need to grab something quick from the kitchen.”

These stick-and-click lights are a string of powerful LEDs with an oversized, easy-to-find power button. Simply push the button for instant illumination. Battery-powered with three AA batteries, there is no need for outlets or electricians. They’re perfect for under cabinets, shelves, or even as a bedside or night lamp.

“If your household charges a lot of small electronic devices like phones, tablets, and whatnot, a dedicated USB charging unit is both convenient and cost-efficient,” Thomas Hawkins, an electrician at Electrician Apprentice HQ, says. “And you literally just plug and play, so to speak.”

Charge all your devices with ease using this universal six-port charging station and a dock for your smart watch. It's compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhone 13, Samsung Galaxy, and iPads. It offers quick charging, too. No need for multiple charging docks; this station is perfect for homes, classrooms, and offices.

If you’ve never heard of a GFCI outlet, you’re not alone. “A GFCI outlet is a ground fault circuit interrupter,” explains Hawkins. “In a sense, it's an outlet that serves as a surge protector. They make your home a lot safer and more convenient since you can upgrade them from any traditional outlet. You'll save money, as well, since the risk of a fire or other damage is limited.”

This GFCI outlet has tamper-resistant shutters to help protect children from accidents, and two indicator lights provide easy feedback on power and protection status. With simple installation instructions included, it’s ideal for homes, offices, hospitals, and schools.

Did you know that your appliances are using energy even when they aren’t in use? “An electricity savings box is a nifty little tool that basically lowers electricity bills because they conserve energy,” says Hawkins. “They extend the life of your connected devices and appliances as well.”

This energy-saving device stabilizes voltage, balances current, and protects against surges, saving you money and extending the life of your electrical appliances. With advanced safety features and almost no energy consumption, it's a reliable choice. Simply plug it in and begin reducing your power consumption.

“Adding motion sense lights to closets is an easy DIY any homeowner can do to add function to their closet space,” says Marie Molek, co-owner of Best Offer REI. “The battery-operated lights last a long time and are easy to mount, no electrical work is required. Closets are overlooked in renovating, but it makes such a difference to have good lighting.”

These wireless lights detect movement up to 10 feet away and turn off automatically to conserve battery life. The cable-free design means they’re easily installed with screws or the included adhesive tape. They come in a pack of three and are weather-resistant.

David Mason, interior designer and the founder of Knobs.co, suggests you mulch your garden for an easy home update. “Mulching provides not only aesthetic appeal, but it also helps keep weeds down and plants healthy. Mulch is an affordable way to upgrade any outdoor space and can give a refreshed look in minutes. Mulch will help protect the soil from wind and erosion.”

Perfect for potted plants, hanging planters, and garden pots, these 100% natural cedar shavings retain moisture and control weeds. They give off a subtle cedar aroma that freshens the air, and as a bonus, they can be used in animal bedding or kitty litter to absorb odors.

“Mosaic stepping stones are great for both interior and exterior upgrades,” says Mason. “[...] consider creating your own custom mosaic stepping stones. They add a vibrant, colorful touch to any space and provide an easy way to give your home a customized look.”

Make it an activity for the whole family with this stepping stones kit. Use the included vibrant ceramic paints and gemstones to create four 7-inch decorative stepping stones. These keepsakes are perfect for displaying indoors or in your garden.

Want to give your kitchen an elevated feel instantly? “Swapping out old cabinet handles and knobs can give kitchens and bathrooms a modern look,” says Skylar Christensen, home contractor, plumber, and cleaning expert at Beehive Plumbing.

These modern and functional cabinet pulls add understated elegance to cabinets, wardrobes, chests, and cupboards. Crafted from stainless steel, this set of 25 bar pulls are designed to last. They fit a wide range of kitchen cabinets and drawers, and come in brushed brass, satin nickel, and black finishes.

Lighting can make or break a room. “Install dimmer switches as they can set the right mood in any room,” advises Christensen. This smart dimmer switch is compatible with Android and iOS, so you can control your lights from anywhere with the Kasa App. Fade your lights gently with the “gentle off” feature, and customize brightness levels for the desired ambiance. Plus, you can enjoy the convenience of voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

You don’t need a huge outdoor space to bring some greenery to your home, says Henry Brook, interior designer and founder of home improvement platform The Page. He suggests, “Use mason jars, some soil, and a few herb seeds (like basil, mint, or rosemary) to create a mini indoor garden.”

This herb garden kit makes the task even easier. Cultivate cilantro, Italian parsley, thyme, and basil right in your kitchen. Everything you need is included: seeds, burlap bags, potting soil, and more. It’s perfect as a gift or for enhancing your own window garden.

If you’re not the type to wait for wet paint to dry, Brook suggests you accent your home with wall decals. “These are inexpensive and easy to apply. They can instantly change the vibe of a room without the commitment of paint.”

Take it one step further and install wall decals with multiple uses, like this chalkboard wallpaper. Easy to install on smooth surfaces, you can have that authentic blackboard look without the fuss. Cover a whole accent wall or just part of it for kids to draw on — it can be customized to the size you need.

Don’t forget, you can decorate in unexpected places. “Freshen up your kitchen and bathroom cabinets with adhesive shelf liners in fun patterns or colors,” says Brook.

Scented with refreshing fragrances, these shelf liners bring luxury to your dresser drawers. The sophisticated print adds a pop of color, and they come in a range of scents — like English lavender and fresh linen — to keep your laundry smelling divine. With six non-adhesive sheets in each box, they're customizable for any use.

Winter chills sneaking in? “Save energy and reduce your utility bill by placing a draft stopper under doors to prevent cold air from entering,” says Brook.

This door draft stopper is a best-seller, and has over 27,000 five-star reviews. It fits snugly, offering noise reduction and temperature control. With easy installation, it's perfect for both interior and exterior doors. Made from high-quality, non-toxic material, it's built to last, saving you money on energy bills while maintaining a consistent interior temperature. Make your space quieter, more comfortable, and energy-efficient with this simple solution.

Make your cooking a little brighter and kookier. “Purchase silicone spoon rests, pot holders, or trivets,” says Brook. “They're easy to clean and add a pop of color to your kitchen.” This adorable silicone crab is a nonslip utensil rest that adds fun and function to your kitchen. His little crab legs grip onto the side of your pot, and heat-resistant claws securely hold spoons, tongs, and other utensils. He can even be used to prop open lids as a steam releaser.

Mortar, grout, specialized cutting tools — laying new tile requires a lot. These easy peel-and-stick subway tiles are a relatively effortless alternative. “Perfect for a kitchen or bathroom backsplash,” Brook says. “They're easy to apply and give a fresh, modern look.”

These heat- and moisture-resistant tiles offer a hassle-free solution for any smooth surface. With 10 sheets in each package, you'll cover approximately 8.2 square feet. They’re also made not to yellow with time. DIY installation is a breeze — no grout, no mess, and no experience required.

An economical and easy upgrade is a magnetic screen door, says Bailey Moran, real estate professional and COO of Austin TX Realty. “The built-in magnets facilitate an automatic closure mechanism, proving to be a blessing, especially in seasons where you'd like to keep the bugs out while enjoying a gentle breeze indoors.”

This magnetic screen door is a rousing best-seller on Amazon with over 11,000 five-star reviews. It’s easy to install and fits doorways up to 38 by 82 inches. Featuring 26 powerful magnets, it allows for hands-free entry and exit. The heavy-duty mesh is built to last, and is kid- and pet-friendly.

Upgrading your outdoor spaces can be just as rewarding as improving inside your home, says Moran. “Simple landscaping upgrades such as incorporating native plants not only add to the visual allure but are also a sustainable choice.”

Give those native plants somewhere to thrive with this versatile three pot set. It includes large, medium, and small pots to accommodate various plant sizes. The integrated drainage system prevents overwatering, and the pots are made from durable, lightweight polypropylene with a sleek, minimalist design. They're also weather-resistant, ensuring they'll stand up to the elements.

“Enhance safety and convenience with motion-activated LED night-lights,” suggests Michael Gottron, owner of Germicidal Maids. “These cost-effective solutions, available on Amazon for under $35, automatically illuminate dark areas when motion is detected. They're perfect for hallways, staircases, or closets, providing illumination only when needed.”

These weatherproof motion-sensor LED lights detect motion up to 10 feet away. They can be used indoors or outdoors, and mount easily to surfaces using the included double-sided tape. A wall mount bracket and anchors are also included. They come in a pack of three.

Niall John Lynchehaun, managing director of Midland Stone, suggests landscaping around your mailbox. “Planting [...] around your mailbox is a fantastic idea, especially if we’re talking about eye-catching flowers,” he says. “Whenever you’re directing someone to your house, you’ll be able to say, ‘My house is the one with the beautiful mailbox.’”

Why not take it one step further with garden ornaments, like this adorable pair of solar-powered turtles? They not only add cheer with their wide-eyed smiles, but also radiate warm light from their eyes when the sun sets, so no visitors can miss your house. Made from rust-resistant resin and protected for all weather conditions, they’re designed to last.

“The best thing you can do for under $35 to not only beautify but also upgrade your home is to perform some easy HVAC maintenance,” according to Dave Clark, owner of Filterbuy HVAC Solutions. The first step Clark recommends is changing out your air filter. “They prevent mold and mildew from growing in your duct system,” he says. “They keep energy bills and costs down. And most importantly, they will significantly control the level of dust, pollutants, etc. in your home.”

Clark specifically recommends the Filterbuy brand of air filter, which comes in a universal standard size. According to the brand, it efficiently traps up to 90% of airborne particles like dust and pollen without affecting air flow.

Outlet space is a precious commodity. This LED night-light plate is easy to install and frees up your outlet for other needs. “It's perfect for the outlets in a bathroom or a hallway between bedrooms so that you can navigate these areas at night without waking the whole house by turning lights on,” says Adam Nelson, co-founder of Tampa Bay-area Young Cardinal Electric. The cover plate doesn’t require any complex wiring — simply snap it on for a softly diffused, energy-efficient light.

It’s hard to be energy-efficient if all the cool (or warm) air is escaping out your front door. “If you have kids that constantly leave doors open – you can add an automatic door closer to your house,” suggests Docia Boylen, owner of Handyman Connection in Golden, Colorado. Crafted from zinc alloy, this spring door closer ensures automatic and secure door closure. It’s easy to install, allowing you to convert hinged doors into self-closing ones effortlessly. It works on doors up to 150 pounds, adjusting tension as needed.

No need for nails, drilling, screws, or glue; these self-adhesive hooks offer a damage-free storage solution for your walls. James Mayfield, CEO and president of Mayfield Environmental Engineering, says: “These can be a game changer. Found on Amazon for a few dollars, they can help reorganize space. Use them for hanging anything from mugs in the kitchen to jewelry in the bedroom.”

Each hook can support up to 24 pounds, providing reliable support for your belongings. They're waterproof, oil-proof, and resistant to temperature fluctuations, making them ideal for use on most any smooth surface.

Let twinkle lights put a twinkle in your eye. “Draped around your headboard or tucked into a glass vase, these can change the ambiance of a room without costing much,” says Mayfield.

These LED fairy lights are the perfect way to infuse warmth and elegance into any setting. With 50 bulbs spaced 4 inches apart on a 16-foot string, these lights are versatile for indoor and outdoor use. Powered by a 3AA battery pack, these energy-saving bulbs last up to 50,000 hours, making them perfect for weddings, gatherings, or holidays. Weatherproof and durable, they add a cozy glow to outdoor spaces year-round.

Jim Olenbush, founder of AustinRealEstate.com, calls this magnetic knife holder a minimalist’s dream. “They save counter space and keep your knives accessible and organized. Plus, they add a touch of modernity to your kitchen.”

Made from rust-resistant 304 stainless steel, it keeps your knives clean, well-organized, and within reach. Strong magnetic power ensures the knives hang securely, and it’s easy to install using adhesive tape or the included hardware. It doesn’t just hold knives — it can be used to organize any number of metallic utensils.

“One of my favorite affordable upgrades that offers both convenience and a touch of luxury is installing a smart irrigation control valve that you can operate from your smartphone,” says Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal. “Imagine having a fountain, pond, or even a particular plant that needs regular watering. Instead of manually trotting outside to open and close a faucet, you can now control this task directly from your phone.”

He recommends the Orbit B-hyve Bluetooth Hose Faucet Timer. Not only does this tool save you the legwork of going outside, but you can also set schedules and timers, making another aspect of your home life that much more automated. It also adds a layer of water conservation to your home, making it a win-win situation for busy homeowners looking to be both efficient and environmentally friendly.

If your kitchen counters and cabinets are overflowing with items, you’re not alone. “Investing in storage solutions gives a clutter-free look to kitchen counters as well as cabinets,” advises CJ Lloyd, owner of Utah’s Best Home Pros. “You can choose cabinet organizers as per your cabinet size so that they accommodate everything easily.”

Organize your kitchen with these versatile organizer shelves. They keep your cooking essentials in order with sturdy construction that can hold up to 33 pounds of supplies. Stack, nest, or arrange them as needed to fit your kitchen space perfectly. Plus, these shelves aren't just for the kitchen; they're ideal for the dining room, bedroom, or bathroom. With easy assembly, they'll have your space tidied up in no time.