3 INEXPENSIVE (and fast) UPGRADES FOR YOUR HOME

You don't need to save up big bucks to breathe new life into your home before you put it on the market. These three upgrades are quick, easy, inexpensive and most of all, potential buyers will notice them.

1. KITCHEN AND BATHROOM CABINETS

Ok, as much as you would love to buy new facings for your cabinets, it's not exactly cheap and I promised you that my tips wouldn't cost you a fortune. New pulls, knobs, and handles on those cabinets, however, can completely transform their appearance. These items are typically inexpensive (though they can become pricey if you allow yourself the budget) and usually a suitable task for homeowners without too much DIY experience. Just be sure to unscrew one handle to see what's underneath it before heading off to the store. Cabinet hardware is available from a variety of sources including the big home improvement stores and online retailers, such as Wayfair.com and Rejuvenation.com. If you're short on cash, try visiting your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

2. WINDOW TREATMENTS

Curtains and blinds tend to be one of those things that you handle once and then forget about forever. After all, once they've proven themselves to regulate the light (and your privacy) efficiently, why change them? Except, that means your window treatments may give your rooms an outdated appearance. And they may not work as effectively as you think. Take some time to browse alternatives and you may just find some that will transform the mood of every room in your house. You'll find inspiration online at HouseBeautiful.com and HGTV.com.

3. LIGHTING

New lighting will always make a room feel newer and brighter. If you can afford to replace outdated fixtures completely, you should consider it now. If you can't buy new lighting, a little change in lampshades or brighter bulbs may just do the trick.