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With the cost of just about everything going up these days — groceries, gas and utilities — you might be feeling like now just isn’t the time to take on any home projects. But remember, you don’t need to tackle a full-on renovation to make a big impact.

And if you don’t know where to start or what’s worth doing, lean on your trusted REMAX® agent for advice before you get your projects started.

Sometimes, small weekend projects still pack a big punch.

Here are a few examples of smart, budget-friendly updates you can do in just a few days to not only make your home feel fresh and new, but add value too.

One key place a lot of homeowners want to give some love? The kitchen. But instead of gutting the entire thing, think about smaller ways to give your space a facelift. You could go for new hardware, or maybe even add a backsplash. And if you want a refresh on your cabinets, consider bringing in a pro to paint or re-finish them. Just remember, the right tools are essential to a quality end product. Your REMAX agent can recommend local pros they trust, if you do need to hire someone to get the job done.

Another easy win? Light fixtures. This is one of the most overlooked updates, and one of the most affordable. Switch out that builder-grade fixture in your dining room or hallway for something a bit more modern or with a spark of personality. That’s an easy win to instantly change the feel of a room. And it doesn’t have to cost more than a nice dinner out.

Strategic bathroom refreshes are another great bang-for-your-buck project. You’ll be surprised the difference a new faucet, mirror or shower curtain can make. Add some fluffy towels and a plant or two, and suddenly you’ve got spa vibes on a shoestring budget.

Wallpaper is also having a moment right now — and is pretty affordable. Whether it’s the traditional variety or the peel-and-stick kind, a pattern can add interest and depth to a room. Just don’t overdo it. Sometimes too much can be overpowering.

And don’t underestimate the power of paint. A fresh, neutral coat on the walls can do wonders, especially if your current colors are looking a little tired or too specific. The right shade can brighten a room, make it feel bigger and create a clean, updated look.

The key is playing it smart with your budget.

None of these projects require a ton of time or a huge payout. You may not even need to hire a contractor. Focus on the little upgrades that make a big visual impact, because even in a time when everything feels more expensive, you still deserve to love your home.

This weekend, grab a coffee, throw on some music and knock out one small project. Your home (and future self) will thank you.

Bottom Line

When everything feels more expensive, it’s smart to focus on small updates that make a big impact. You don’t need a huge budget to love where you live. You just need a few good ideas (and maybe a little encouragement).

What’s on your weekend project list? If you’re ready to tackle those small-but-mighty upgrades, your trusted REMAX agent can help you prioritize what adds the most value. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make an impact.

There’s a lot of noise out there about what an economic slowdown could mean for the housing market. And if it leaves you feeling a little uneasy, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing.

If you’re worried about what a potential recession could mean for the value of your home, or your homebuying power, your trusted REMAX® agent is here to help set the record straight. You don’t have to fear the market when you understand what the data actually shows.

A Recession Doesn’t Automatically Mean Home Prices Will Fall

It’s easy to assume that if the economy slows down, home prices will fall. You might remember what happened in 2008. But the truth is: the housing crash of 2008 was an exception — not the rule.

It hadn’t happened before. And it hasn’t happened since. But what made 2008 so different? It was a flood of oversupply and very different lending standards. And everyone remembers how painful that time was. 

Today, lending is much tighter, and even with inventory rising, the overall number of homes for sale remains well below normal levels. That keeps upward pressure on prices — and it keeps prices from falling significantly on a national level. And while prices are moderating in some markets today, a significant crash is unlikely. 

In fact, according to data from Cotality, in four of the last six recessions, home prices actually went up (see graph below):

Don’t let fear of a recession make you assume prices are about to fall dramatically. 

And since prices usually follow the path they’re already on, in most markets they should rise, not fall, in the days ahead. The rise just may slower, or even flat, but certainly not a crash. 

Mortgage Rates Typically Decline During Recessions 

Another important pattern you should know? Mortgage rates usually fall when the economy slows down.

Looking at the data for the last six recessions, mortgage rates came down each time — helping boost buyer purchasing power, even during tougher economic periods (see graph below):

If a recession does happen, history suggests you could see some relief in mortgage rates. However, it’s important to stay realistic. While a dip is possible, we’re unlikely to return to the ultra-low 3% rates seen in 2020 and 2021. 

Bottom Line

Economic shifts are part of the cycle, but they don’t have to derail your plans to buy or sell a home. Don’t let fear be the thing that keeps you from your next move.

Instead, lean on facts to guide your decisions. And your trusted REMAX agent is the perfect person to make sure you have the information you need to feel confident moving forward.