Home renovation in Memphis: What to change, low budget fixes and more

Home renovation is more popular than ever in Memphis. A trend that is sweeping across homeowners of all budgets, the process is often a highly rewarding transformation for any house. Whether you plan on renovating to sell or to continue enjoying your home, renovation can be a gamechanger.

Why do most people renovate their home?

The majority of home renovations in Memphis are driven by the need for change, as many homes are older than fifty years, says local realtor Jennifer Williams. Upgrading out of style or outdated features of the home, such as floor tiles, countertops, and paint schemes can significantly increase the appeal of these older homes.

For those looking to sell their homes, getting the exterior of the home up to speed can be a simple and cost-effective solution to increase curb appeal. Jennifer Hobson, from Hobson Realtors, advises that minor changes such as mulching the yard, buying plants, power washing the walls and painting window shutters and the front door can make a drastic difference in attracting potential buyers.

What are the most popular renovation types in Memphis?

Kitchens and primary bathrooms top the list of most popular areas to renovate in Memphis. Along with this, removing carpets and repainting are common renovations that don’t completely overhaul a room but still manage to dramatically transform the space. For older couples, improving accessibility in primary bathrooms is a sought-after renovation, including elements such as handrails, wheelchair-accessible showers, and low counters.

How can I renovate on a low budget?

Contrary to popular belief, a home renovation does not always have to break the bank. For minor modifications to a kitchen or bathroom, an estimated budget could range from $5,000 to $10,000. However, Williams advises that hiring a general contractor can prevent miscommunications and overcharging, resulting in a smoother renovation process.

“Paint goes a long way,” recommends Hobson. A fresh coat of paint on cabinets, new hardware, and updated appliances can significantly upgrade a kitchen or bathroom at a low cost. Other options on a budget can include installing consistent flooring throughout the house, asking for “remnants” at local carpet stores and sticking to a neutral color palette.

What are the market trends in the Memphis area?

According to data released by the Shelby County’s Division of Planning and Development, window installations account for half of all renovation permits since 2019, followed by bathroom and kitchen permits. And with the recent surge in renovations in 2022, post-COVID, the most significant increase has been in window installations. The clean energy movement has also influenced the renovation trends, with more than 153 solar energy permits being issued in the past five years.

Renovating your home can be an exciting, transformative process — and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As the trends and advice from Memphis experts show, simple fixes can go a long way towards improving your home’s style and appeal.