Rental Report: Refresh Your Home in the New Year

Editor’s Note: This biweekly sponsored column is written by Rick Gersten, founder and CEO of Urban Igloo, a rental real estate firm that matches up renters with their ideal apartments, condos or houses. Please submit any questions in the comments section or via email.

Instead of starting the New Year with a resolution, why don’t you start out by giving your home a little facelift? Save up those gift cards or holiday bonus to hit up the end of year sales, and try our tips to freshening up your home for 2015.

New Wall Art — Whether it is a high-end print in a nice frame or a seasonal DIY piece, new artwork is a great way to brighten up a room. Check out a local thrift store or flea market to pick up a one-of-a-kind piece. Or try a print with a simple frame to add a little sophistication in a living area. The kitchen is a great place to add a little splash of color with a DIY painting on canvas.

Furniture Accents — If you have neutral furnishings, changing out your accent pillows or throw blankets with the seasons is an inexpensive way to change up a space. Complete the look by switching out your dining table cloth to match. Looking for something to change up a home office or bedroom? Try some curtains. You can find some great inexpensive curtains at Target or Bed Bath & Beyond that will help you easily add some character to any room.

New Accent Pieces — Do you have a little bigger budget? Why not add a side table, ottoman or bookshelf? Pick something that compliments your current pieces but adds some color or a changes up the style just a bit. This is another great area where DIY can be a lot of fun. You can definitely hit the jackpot on Craigslist if you have a certain piece in mind. Head on over to Pinterest for inspiration on mixing and matching styles.

Redecorate your Bathroom — The bathroom is a small space you can easily redecorate without breaking the bank. Simply change out your shower curtain or rugs, throw in some new hand towels and, voila, for under $100, you’ve got a new look.

Get Organized — Nothing says new start like getting organized. Use the New Year as an opportunity to get rid of all the stuff you don’t need, and organizing the stuff you do. Getting organized can be also a great stress reliever. And who doesn’t need that after the hectic holiday season? The best way to tackle an organization project is to pick one room at a time. It is easier on your mind and your budget (if you need supplies).

Even though it is chilly outside, you don’t want to spend all of your free time knee deep in old socks and magazines at the back of your closet. Be sure to take time to go skating in Pentagon City, or if you don’t like cold weather activities, try some Hot Yoga.

Keep it simple, and maybe try to do one thing each quarter to add some new life to your home. It is a great way to keep your home interesting. If you spread it out throughout the year, it keeps you from busting your budget by buying things on a whim, and you aren’t overwhelmed by too many projects on your to do list. Happy New Year!

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