Tile is anotherway to create an upscale and stylish change. Backsplash, shower, and floor tiles can bring a fresh and contemporary look. The tile on the left is from a designer site and costs 10.50 a sq ft. The tile on the right is $.99 a sq ft. from the big box store. If you cannot afford porcelain, use ceramic tile. If you cannot afford marble, get a marble look in ceramic, porcelain, or quartz. Many builder-grade materials are stylish and affordable.
Here’s another great way to save on tile. Go with larger cuts. It will save on cost of tile and the cost of installation. I recently installed larger-
sized (12x24) tile in the master bathroom of a modern farmhouse remodel. Tile cost was $1.49 sq ft. Install was $10 sq. ft. vs. $12 sq. ft. for the 4 x 4 pieces that would have had to be individually placed to create the pattern. That was a $200 savings!
This tile to the right is available at a designer site for $9.59 sq. ft. but is in nine separate pieces so install will be higher.
There are great savings to be had in other areas of your home. Kitchen cabinets that are ready to install, with soft-close drawers and a lazy susan in the corner cabinet are available in white and gray, or wood, as well as the new popular blues and greens. They come in many different door styles, from shaker to flat panel as well as raised panel. They are factory painted, which saves on hiring a painter, which can be very costly. Light fixtures are another place to save and still achieve that high end, high style look.
Look at these two chandeliers. The one on the left is $319.00 and the one on the right is $175.00. You can hardly tell the difference, but your bank account will notice!
There is no reason to sacrifice style because of budget. Great looks can be found in all price points. Working with a professional can help with both budgetary concerns and achieving “the look” for less. For you DIY-ers out there, a little time and effort can bring the same results.
About the Designer: Marla Roberds founded her real estate career and business, Kissing Tree Properties, in 2017, as an investor doing restoration and remodeling. She advises homeowners on their remodels and has flipped many projects of her own.
70 | think realty magazine :: april 2021
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