Handymen say these are the cheapest & easiest ways to improve your home

According to Joshua Parrish, GA licensed residential contractor at PRI Construction Co and co-owner of Hammer and Handsaw, a little lighting update goes a long way. “[It’s an] easy way to breathe new life into an older home,” he says. These magnetic under-cabinet lights feature a modern design and long battery life. Plus, they’ll instantly update the look of your cabinets. Use motion sensor or night-sensor mode, and they’ll last up to 60 days before needing a recharge. Stepless dimming gives you even more control.

As a bonus, he says, “New fixtures are more energy efficient than their older counterparts, giving the homeowner another reason to upgrade.”

A fun, unexpected addition to your household lighting upgrades á la Parrish’s advice is this energy-efficient LED mushroom lamp. Crafted from polished beechwood, it features a sleek cordless (and rechargeable) design that blends retro and modern vibes. Tap the button to turn the lamp on, or press and hold it to adjust the brightness.

This cozy candle warmer lamp features a 50-watt halogen bulb (which is more efficient than a traditional bulb), making it another choice that aligns with Parrish’s advice. And it’s dual-function — use it to enjoy candles without a flame. Stick a candle on the base, and the bulb will melt the candle’s wax and fill your room with its scent.

This smart light bulb is a perfect example of Parrish’s recommendation for updated lighting that modernizes your space. It’s not only energy-efficient but also totally controllable through voice, via Alexa or Google Assistant and their companion apps. You can also customize it with 16 million colors, select a preset scene, or sync your light to music.

“Most people know that painting a room can update a room, but replacing the caulk in a room is a way to make it even more polished,” explains Parrish. He recommends replacing your caulking with this best-selling all-purpose caulk. Its acrylic latex formula is designed to have a 40-year lifetime, resist discoloration, and prevent mold and mildew in your space. Use it on windows, doors, baseboards, and crown molding — it’ll adhere to surfaces like brick, wood, glass, drywall, vinyl, and more. It’s also paintable after 30 minutes.

“Over time, caulk can wear down given the temperature changes from season to season. Cutting away broken and worn-out caulk and replacing it with a new bead can give an overall cleaner look to the paint finish in a room,” says Parrish. To make replacing that worn-out caulk shockingly easy, grab this clever caulking tool. It features three tools in one — an angled scraper for scraping caulking out of corners and angles, a flat scraper to scrape away a line of caulk, and an angled smoother for laying caulk. Use it with various sealant types, including acrylic, resin, and silicone.

You can also follow Parrish’s suggestion to replace caulking by installing some of this ultra-easy caulk strip. Its flexible, mess-free material makes it easy to bend and smooth onto baseboards, doorframes, around sinks, and more. To install it, peel off the backing and press it into place. It comes in six colors and four sizes.

The front of your home gives off the first impression, per Parrish, so updates to your exterior can make a big difference. “These can include replacing a dated mailbox,” he says. He recommends this inexpensive post-mount mailbox that’s a surprisingly budget-friendly upgrade. It’s constructed from rustproof, durable plastic with a UV-inhibiting finish so it’s designed to look new for years. Its classic design will match any home’s exterior, and it has a standard medium capacity for average mail deliveries, plus pre-drilled holes for easy installation.

“Porch lights can also be a quick change and easy enough for the beginner DIYer,” says Parrish, who points to these porch sconces as his favorites on Amazon. Available in seven finishes and two sizes, these sophisticated sconces have a sleek, modern design that’s compatible with various bulbs you might want to use, including smart options. Their durable metal and glass construction is also weather-resistant and won’t rust to keep them looking sleek.

Parrish also recommends focusing on your landscaping, and lighting can create a nice focal point. Try something like these budget-friendly solar pathway lights, which turn on automatically at dusk. They come with easy-to-install garden stakes and feature a modern design that gently lights your pathway with energy-efficient lighting. They feature three brightness modes — low, high, and breathing — and four height options via the adjustable stakes.

If you want your outdoor lighting to be a bit more whimsical, this popular solar fairy house light is a funky take on Parrish’s recommendation for boosting curb appeal. Its mushroom cottage design is complete with windows and a door from which a golden light glows within. Plus, many reviewers say the light in this whimsical garden accent shines all night after charging during the day.

You can also elevate your outdoor space per Parrish’s suggestion with these weather-resistant solar step lights, that are easy to neatly install under each step. Each light features easy-to-use hardware and 24 bright LEDs that give your stairwell a welcoming glow. Their slim design easily blends with staircases, delivering up to eight hours of light on a full charge. A bonus? These make your stairs safer too.

Or add these solar-powered fence lights to elevate your curbside appeal per Parrish’s advice. They’re made of durable, weather-resistant acrylic, and they're actually easy to install with screws or tape. Once installed, you can choose from warm-white lighting or a color-changing mode that cycles through seven vibrant colors. These fun lights also charge in just six to eight hours, switching on automatically at dusk.

Brendan Anderson, owner and roofer at Brix Systems Roofing, advocates for decluttering various spaces throughout your home. “A clutter-free space feels larger and more inviting. Start with small areas and gradually expand,” he advises. A good place to start is with this adjustable shelf divider. Its durable plastic design features eight dividers for storing purses, wallets, and more. Clear plastic makes it easy to spot what you need, and you can adjust the dividers to fit different bag sizes.

Another decluttering task based on Anderson’s advice is hiding your cluttered cords, and this outlet concealer makes it so easy. It instantly transforms your space and has over 50,000 rave Amazon reviews. Simply plug the cover into an outlet, then adhere the white cord along your baseboard. Plug your items in, and hide the whole thing behind furniture.

Another spot to declutter is your closet, and these vacuum storage bags are cleverly designed to prevent fabric damage and wrinkles. Each bag is large enough to store up to five jackets, dresses, or overcoats and includes five hanging hooks. Insert your vacuum hose into the suction valve to reduce clothing volume by 80%.

Fix drawer clutter with this bamboo storage bag organizer. Like Anderson’s advice, it’s an easy, small way to boost your organization, thanks to its four slots for snack, quart, sandwich, and gallon-size bags. It comes with label stickers for different bag sizes for easy access to the bag you need when you need it.

Extend Anderson’s decluttering advice to your closet with these jumbo storage bags, which are the perfect size for storing blankets, comforters, linens, and bulky seasonal clothes. They feature side handles and breathable polypropylene fabric that keeps dust off your items without making them stale. Clear vinyl windows make it easy to see what’s inside, too.

Anderson also says a cheap home fix is to unclog drains yourself. “A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can work wonders on slow drains,” Anderson says. This highly rated vinegar fits the bill, formulated with 6% acidity specifically for cleaning via distilled white vinegar (and zero added scents, dyes, or chemicals). It quickly breaks down grease, lime scale, and build-up while neutralizing unpleasant odors, and it’s safe to use on multiple surfaces for other cleaning needs on wood, plastic, or stone.

If you’re also struggling with keeping your drain clean in the first place, these disposal cleaning drops will help. They feature a formula powered by citrus peels and are designed to break down food particles and other build-up inside your disposal. A citrus scent deodorizes, too, leaving your sink smelling fresh.

If your window screens are really dirty, you may want to clean them to “maximize natural light,” per Anderson. This window screen cleaning brush has a simple, effective design with a microfiber head featuring two lengths of bristles. Its longer fibers ensure a thorough clean of the screen’s nooks and crannies (or even furniture upholstery). Use it with or without the handle, and add soap if you have a lot of grime to clear.

To let in even more natural light, get your windows sparkling clean with this Windex outdoor glass cleaner that is a breeze to use with your water hose. Its formula will remove grime, dirt, and smudges, all — without the need to scrub. Simply attach a bottle to your hose, then spray it on, rinse, and let your windows dry to reveal a streak-free shine.

“People expect the lighting arrangement in your kitchen or living room to be on point and a reflection of your style, but most people don’t put the same effort into the lighting in the bedroom,” says Bethany Uribe, mitigation supervisor at ASAP Restoration LLC. To add soft lighting to your bedroom, adhere these under-bed lights to your bed frame using the included easy adhesive tape. When the sensor detects motion within about 12 feet, the lighting strip will emit a warm-white ambient light. Not only will it look great, but it’ll also guide your way in the dark.

“Giving the bedroom lights some extra shine can improve the look and feel of the whole room,” says Uribe. Opt for extra lighting with these aesthetically pleasing flameless candles. A set of three features a stair-step design from small to large and frosted acrylic candle holders. Faux flickering flames give off a realistic, romantic glow that you can customize with the included remote control. They offer a flickering and non-flickering mode, plus adjustable brightness.

This retro LED night light is an additional lighting source that matches Uribe’s advice for adding light to your bedroom. It has the coziest Edison-style LED bulb with a dimmer and a matte black base that looks more expensive than it is. It also has a light-detecting sensor, so it’ll automatically turn on at dusk and cast an aesthetic warm-white glow.

Paige Warrington, reconstruction supervisor ASAP Restoration LLC, advises that if you’re missing shower storage, “A shower caddy can solve this problem with ease and add some style to the shower in the process.” These chic shower shelves are a budget-friendly storage upgrade with plenty of style nearly perfect ratings. They feature a long-lasting, rustproof stainless steel build and easy-to-install adhesive hooks. Each shelf is spacious enough for multiple bottles, supports up to 20 pounds, and comes with two hanging hooks for loofahs.

“If your outlets are all standard, then you might want to swap out some of the more accessible ones with USB-style outlets to increase your connectivity options without taking up plug space,” says Geoff Walker, superintendent at ASAP Restoration LLC. He recommends this sleek USB-C outlet, which features two standard AC outlets, one USB-A outlet, and one USB-C outlet. AKA — you can charge multiple devices at once without taking up plug space. It delivers up to 24 watts of power for rapid charging via USB-C, and reviewers say installation is easy, too.

If you don’t want to replace an entire outlet, opt for this outlet extender and night-light combo, which simply plugs in. Its design features plenty of plug-in points, including five AC outlets, three USB-A ports, and one USB-C port. It also has a handy 360-degree night-light, which turns on automatically when the room is dark.

Bill Taylor, HVAC contractor manager at South Jersey and Elizabethtown Gas, asserts that caring for your HVAC is a huge and easy fix to keep your AC running smoothly. “Dirt, dust, and grit accumulate in your unit, making it work harder and less efficiently,” Taylor explains. One way to maintain your AC is to use an air conditioner cover. Its premium, heavy-duty mesh shields against leaves, twigs, and other debris, while adjustable bungee cords secure the cover to your AC unit. And while the mesh allows for airflow, it may also help reduce moisture from building up inside your unit.

“Clean out dryer vents and lint traps regularly too — built up lint is a fire hazard and reduces efficiency,” says Tyler Tranni, owner and operator at Tranni Home Remodeling. “An ounce of prevention, like these small steps, keeps repair costs down the road.” A budget-friendly solution to this problem is this dryer vent cleaning kit that’s shockingly easy. It comes with a vacuum attachment, a center attachment, and a long hose, making reaching into your dryer vent a breeze. Use it to suck out the lint from the lint catch, the outside and inside of the vent, and inside your dryer.

“Place mats, especially at exterior doors, to minimize dirt and allergens in the home,” says Tranni. This universal doormat aligns with Tranni’s advice, thanks to its large surface area and clever mesh texture that hides away dirt. Its PVC material is waterproof, anti-slip, easy to wash, and weatherproof so you can even use it outside. Plus, its stylish plaid design will look great with any entry decor.

You may also benefit from keeping this boot and shoe tray by your door to minimize dirt. Available in five sizes, this durable plastic tray has raised edges to keep dirt inside. Keep boots and shoes by your door to prevent tracking dirt inside your home. When it needs cleaning, just wipe it off to remove the dirt.

After preventing dirt per Tranni’s recommendation, you may want to keep your entryway clean and fresh with this plug-in deodorizer. Specifically designed to reduce airborne germs with a UV-C light, it also eliminates odors. Plug it into an AC outlet, and it’ll get to work immediately, only requiring a replacement bulb every 10 months.

“Replacing outdated faucets and shower heads with modern, water-efficient models can enhance the look of your kitchen or bathroom while also conserving water,” explains Joshua Riutta, owner of Mikku and Sons Roofing. “This simple swap can make your space feel more luxurious and up-to-date.”

This rain shower head fits Riutta’s description of a modern update. It features a chic gold finish and over 90 anti-clog silicone jets deliver a high-pressure stream. It installs easily with the included Teflon tape — simply thread it over the tape, and you’re ready to shower.

Riutta offers one easy home update: “Adding shelves to unused spaces, like above doorways or in corners, can increase your home’s storage capacity and make better use of your space.” Take advantage of all your counter space with this corner shelf made of durable bamboo. It has a three-tier design for maximum storage and fits snugly in a corner. Use it to organize glassware, spices, or other kitchen essentials. Its compact size also fits inside most cabinets.

“Adding smart home devices like programmable thermostats, smart plugs, or smart light bulbs can make your home more convenient and energy-efficient,” says Riutta, who notes they’re relatively inexpensive. This smart plug fits Riutta’s recommendation since it’s super budget-friendly and compatible with Alexa. Just pop it into an outlet before plugging in the device you wish to automate via the Alexa app or voice control. Use it to automate a light, coffee maker, or other device you use regularly (and you’ll still have space in the other outlet).

In line with Riutta’s smart home suggestions is this Amazon Echo smart lamp, which doubles as an Alexa hub, speaker, and lamp. When paired with your Alexa app, you can use voice control to listen to music, change its color, or set a color-changing timer. It also has a morning wake-up mode that gradually brightens light.

This Google Assistant- and Alexa-compatible smart security camera is another smart home option to make your home that much more convenient. It delivers full HD video and a live stream you can view via the companion app. Other features include two-way audio, a cleverly compact tilting design to see all angles, and instant alerts for both motion and sound detection.

Jordan Woolf, owner of Huntsville Roofing Solutions, says moss and leftover stains can affect your home’s curb appeal, and suggests using “a roof cleaner designed to remove these growths.” He recommends grabbing this easy-to-use mold and mildew stain remover. Its no-bleach, no-scrub formula makes removing stains from moss, mold, mildew, and algae a breeze. Simply attach the included nozzle to your hose and spray the affected roof and siding. Leave it on, and it’ll work to break down the stains over time.

Another roof concern is to keep your gutters clean. “Gutter guards can help keep leaves and debris out of your gutters, reducing the need for frequent cleaning,” says Woolf. “They can be a great investment for maintaining your gutters and improving their efficiency.”

These durable plastic mesh gutter guards are easy to install — just cut a strip and attach it to your gutter by folding it into place. Its mesh surface will keep leaves and other debris from accumulating inside your gutters, and it won’t rust or corrode over time. Each roll covers up to an impressive 20 feet.

“Keeping your gutters clean is crucial to avoid water damage and roof leaks,” says Woolf. “Make it a habit to clear out leaves and debris from your gutters and ensure that downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation.” An easy way to keep up with this gutter maintenance is to use this gutter cleaning wand that attaches to your water hose. Screw it onto the hose, then adjust the wand to reach up to 5.8 feet to spray out gross leaves and grimes. Its durable zinc nozzle delivers a powerful spray and is rotatable up to 180 degrees.

Andriy Neborak, cleaning specialist, founder, and CEO of Luxury Cleaning NY, says you may overlook your home’s textiles. “Upholstery, curtains, and carpets harbor dust, allergens, and smells, but vacuuming and steaming them regularly will boost indoor air quality, improve the appearance of the home, and perk up often neglected surfaces,” says Neborak.

Steam your textiles with this handheld steam cleaner, which delivers continuous high-temperature steam for up to eight minutes without interval pauses. It features a 16-foot power cord, a 250-milliliter water tank, and 10 accessories, including a fabric steamer, angled nozzle, rubber wiper, and other attachments for deep cleaning any surface.

After you deep clean your textiles, protect them with this best-selling fabric sealant spray to prevent damage from spills and stains. Simply spray it on to treat your couch, pillows, window curtains, and more. It’ll dry clear and odorless while leaving behind a long-lasting barrier that repels water-based spills. One reviewer even raved, “it has been an absolute life saver.”

“Indoor air quality is just as essential,” asserts Neborak. “Make your home look better by investing in indoor plants that filter the air and take out toxins.” Perfect for purifying your air, these live potted plants come in an assortment of varieties that filter air. They’re small enough to keep on your desk, side table, or in other compact spaces. Plus, they come in modern white pots with a stylish speckled finish.

Neborak also recommends cleaning with essential oils because he says, “not only will they make your house smell good, but many essential oils are antibacterial and antiviral.” This stainless steel cleaner kit blends coconut oil and lavender essential oil, which delivers a streak-free shine while guarding against fingerprints. Buff it in using the included microfiber cloth. Its lavender oil is the perfect beginner essential oil cleaner, and its scent is a soothing blend of eucalyptus and lavender.