DIY Tips to Help Empty Nesters Transform Their Home Without Breaking the Bank
Many older couples find themselves in a state of confusion when their final child leaves the house. Since the space was only ever used for one purpose — raising a family — it can be difficult to know what to do when the job is complete. If you still plan on staying in the home for many years to come, it can be beneficial to convert the empty nest into the home you’ve always wanted. Additionally, it’s also a healthy way to keep your mind busy. Here are some great DIY tips for empty nesters who want to transform their home without breaking the bank.
For Starters
Before you break out that sledgehammer, determine your home’s appraisal value. If there’s any chance you could sell your home in the future, this information can come in handy. Make sure to track how these updates increase your property’s value, and keep it in mind if you ever decide to sell. Mixing high- and low-cost improvement projects is always a good option.
Creating an In-House Spa
One word comes to mind when parents think about an empty nest: relaxation. With no children to worry about, your home is poised to become tranquil and calm. To reach this goal, you may have to make a few modifications. Converting your master bathroom into an in-house spa is a practical and affordable solution. If you’ve been using the same bathtub for decades, it might be time to invest in a new one with jets and other spa-like features. For more affordable changes, opt for a variable shower head, buy some new rugs and towels, and add some calming scents.
Converting the Kids’ Rooms
Let’s face it: You’ve been thinking of creative ways to use your children’s bedrooms before they even moved out. Don’t be ashamed; it’s always exciting to brainstorm different ideas for empty space in a home. Once the rooms are finally free, you can begin breaking ground on your new project. There’s no reason to leave your kids’ rooms untouched, as they would only become empty and unused space. Converting these rooms into a shared space for you and your spouse can make your home feel twice as big. Perhaps you need a study for work or a reading room for that book series you’ve been dying to start.
Starting a Garden
Not all home improvements take place inside. For example, starting a garden — even a small one — is just one example of some exterior changes that you can make. This is a great way to spend your new-found free time while also making your lifestyle more sustainable and healthy. You can purchase seeds for a majority of fruits and vegetables for less than a dollar; soil, shovels, gloves, and other equipment won’t set you back much either. If you don’t have space for a traditional garden, you can always use some pots instead.
Making Personal Spaces
Now that all of your children are out of the house, it’s just you and your spouse. This gives you 24 hours of uninterrupted time to spend together. While there’s no doubt you’ll be taking advantage of this opportunity, there’s a good chance both individuals will still want some time for themselves. When the home is empty, there’s more room to do with whatever you want. This is a great chance for couples to create their own personal spaces. This is an area where you and your significant other can retreat for some quality alone time. Whether you settle for a carpentry space or a crocheting room, don’t be afraid to get creative and personal with the design.
An empty nest doesn’t have to feel empty. With the right improvement projects, you and your spouse can fall in love with your home all over again.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Article courtesy of Ray Flynn, diyguys.net
