DIY projects for new homeowners: Tips and tricks
New homeowners often face the exciting challenge of personalizing their space while staying within budget. This article presents a range of practical DIY projects, from simple upgrades to more ambitious transformations, all designed to enhance your home’s functionality and style. Drawing on expert advice, these tips and tricks offer cost-effective solutions that can make a significant impact on your living environment.
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- Weatherproof Windows for Energy Efficiency
- Transform Kitchen with Peel-and-Stick Backsplash
- Paint Interior for Budget-Friendly Transformation
- Upgrade Lighting with Simple Fixture Swap
- Build Custom Garage Shelving for Storage
- Create Accent Wall with Thin Brick Veneer
- Recaulk Bathroom Tiles for Fresh Look
- Replace Bathroom Exhaust Fan for Improved Airflow
- Revamp Back Porch by Uncovering Hidden Beauty
- Seal Crawlspace to Improve Indoor Air Quality
- Convert Under-Stairs Space into Management Center
- Upgrade Showerheads and Faucets for Efficiency
- Reorganize Garage with Shelving and Storage Systems
- Install Closet Organization System for Better Storage
- Add Floating Shelves for Stylish Office Storage
- Install Smart Thermostat for Energy Savings
Weatherproof Windows for Energy Efficiency
I decided to tackle weatherproofing the windows after moving in, and it turned out to be a lot simpler than I had imagined. I thought the process would be a huge undertaking, but with some weatherstripping and caulking, it was a manageable project that made a noticeable difference in comfort and energy efficiency.
I found the biggest benefit in doing this myself was the sense of control over my home’s insulation. I didn’t need a professional to handle something as simple as sealing gaps that were letting air in. For new homeowners, it’s a quick project to save on energy bills and improve overall comfort. All it takes is patience and attention to detail when applying the caulk and ensuring everything is sealed correctly.
Mark Sanchez, Founder & Senior Real Estate Manager, Tropic Residential
Transform Kitchen with Peel-and-Stick Backsplash
The installation of peel-and-stick backsplash tiles in my kitchen was one of the most achievable self-install DIY projects after I purchased my house. My initial reaction was doubt because I thought it would require skills beyond my current capabilities. The experience exceeded all my expectations because it turned out to be remarkably straightforward. Using a utility knife and a level, together with patience, enabled me to transform my kitchen’s appearance while avoiding traditional tiling expenses. I spent extra time correctly positioning each tile and flattening all air bubbles so I could achieve a flawless outcome.
New homeowners should begin their projects by doing those with major visual impact without needing special heavy tools or professional skills. The combination of self-adhesive wall tiles with new hardware elements and fresh paint efficiently transforms any area. Expression through experimentation should always be welcomed since home improvement remains most fulfilling when it is enjoyable. Start by researching tutorials and conducting tests on small portions, then accept flawed results with kindness. Going through the process of reconstructing your living environment brings satisfaction that justifies all efforts.
Tatiana Colligan, Owner, Buy Best Chest
Paint Interior for Budget-Friendly Transformation
Oh, I love this question! As a designer and contractor, I’ve tackled my fair share of DIY projects, but one of the most surprisingly manageable ones after buying my home was painting the interior. I know, I know—it sounds too simple, but hear me out. Fresh paint can completely transform a space without breaking the bank, and the process wasn’t as intimidating as I thought it would be. Prep, prep, prep—and take your time! Cover the floors and furniture with drop cloths, clean the walls to remove dust and grime, and use painter’s tape to ensure crisp lines. Also, don’t be afraid to start with a small room or accent wall so you can build your confidence as you go.
Choose quality paint. I’m a huge fan of Sherwin Williams for its durability and range of shades. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, buying good paint goes a long way in ensuring your work lasts and looks professional. Also, don’t rush the drying process! It’s tempting to jump right in and start on the next coat, but giving each layer time to dry properly is crucial.
Take the time to document things as you go. Whether it’s labeling the circuit breakers, noting down paint colors, or even taking photos of plumbing or electrical setups, having a clear record can save you so much time and frustration later on. It doesn’t take long to write these things down, and it’s a small task that can prevent bigger headaches in the future.
Another tip? Don’t be afraid to start small with projects, especially if you’re new to DIY. Little things like switching out light fixtures, changing the hardware on cabinets, or even adding shelves to a closet can have a major impact without being too overwhelming. It’s all about breaking things down into manageable steps. And hey, if it doesn’t work out perfectly the first time, it’s all part of the learning process. In the end, it’s your home, and every little DIY project just adds to the personal touch and character of the space. Lastly, remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about enjoying the process and creating a space that feels like you.
Melody Stevens, Owner, Design On A Dime Interiors
Upgrade Lighting with Simple Fixture Swap
I’ve been through my fair share of home projects, and one of the easiest wins was changing out old light fixtures. When I first started, I thought it would be tricky or even dangerous, but with the power shut off and a simple YouTube tutorial, I realized how doable it actually was. Swapping outdated or builder-grade fixtures for something more modern instantly made the space feel updated and more “me.” It’s one of those small changes that makes a big impact.
My biggest tip for new homeowners is to always double-check that the power is off at the breaker, not just the light switch. Also, take photos of the wiring before you disconnect anything as it really helps when reconnecting. Don’t rush it. Take your time, and start with a basic fixture before trying something more complicated. Honestly, it gave me a real sense of ownership and boosted my confidence to tackle more around the house.
Max Cohen, Founder & Real Estate Expert, FL Home Buyers
Build Custom Garage Shelving for Storage
The home we purchased is extremely short on storage space, so after we moved in, we built our own custom garage shelving. It was surprisingly easy because we weren’t necessarily going for aesthetics, and we got to design the storage to fit all of our exact items (including a router, travel stroller, patio cushions, and more). When it comes to advice for other homeowners, I would say to work within your budget and get creative to make the space work for you. Not enough kitchen counter space? Think about adding a kitchen island cart. Not enough closets? Mount your brooms, vacuum, and other items on the wall. Want more privacy? Add window treatments and extra curtains. Work with your home instead of against it!
Kendra Hagerman, CEO + Owner, Kendra Found It
Create Accent Wall with Thin Brick Veneer
One DIY project I tackled after buying my home was installing thin brick veneer to create an accent wall in my living room. At first, I assumed it would require professional help, but it turned out to be much more manageable than I anticipated.
The process involved preparing the wall surface, measuring and cutting the bricks, applying adhesive, and finally grouting. I found that breaking the task into small, clear steps made it easier. Watching tutorial videos beforehand and gathering all materials upfront greatly simplified the workflow.
My main tip to new homeowners considering similar projects is not to underestimate preparation. Good planning saves you from common mistakes like uneven spacing or inadequate adhesive. Take accurate measurements, lay out your bricks beforehand, and ensure surfaces are clean and ready.
In the end, completing this DIY project not only boosted my confidence but also gave me a genuine sense of pride in my new home. It’s a satisfying reminder that many home improvement tasks are within reach, even for beginners, as long as you’re prepared and patient.
Saltuk Doganci, Founder/Owner, Brick My Walls
Recaulk Bathroom Tiles for Fresh Look
Generally speaking, recaulking my bathroom tiles seemed daunting at first, but it turned out to be a straightforward weekend project that made a huge difference. I removed the old caulk with a plastic scraper, cleaned thoroughly with rubbing alcohol, and carefully applied new silicone caulk using painter’s tape as a guide for clean lines. If you’re trying this yourself, I’d suggest buying a good caulk removal tool and using masking tape—it helped me keep everything neat and professional-looking.
Ryan Clarke, Owner, A1 Waterproofing
Replace Bathroom Exhaust Fan for Improved Airflow
One of the earliest DIY projects I did after purchasing my house was replacing a vintage bathroom exhaust fan. It sounded intimidating at first—tearing out the old one, figuring out the wiring, and ensuring the new one was properly vented outside. But after turning off the power and taking the time to learn how the old unit was originally installed, it was straightforward. I matched the housing size, used the correct ducting, and sealed any holes to prevent air leaks. It took a few hours, but the result was a much quieter fan and improved airflow.
As a new homeowner, start with small victories like this. Work on tasks where failure won’t result in extensive damage—such as light fixture replacements, cabinet hardware updates, or simple plumbing repairs. Always cut the power at the breaker, measure twice, and don’t rush. You don’t need special tools, but you do need patience. One or two videos specific to your particular fixture help to eliminate guesswork. Taking a picture before you remove anything helps when you’re reassembling everything.
These small projects build your confidence. They also give you an understanding of how things work in your home, so it’s easier to identify larger problems before they become costly. And when you do it yourself, you’ll know when it’s time to hire a professional. That’s the key to avoiding expensive mistakes and keeping things running as they should.
John Gabrielli, Owner, Air Temp Solutions
Revamp Back Porch by Uncovering Hidden Beauty
As longtime renters who only recently could afford a home, my husband and I have virtually no DIY household project experience.
So what inspired us to take on revamping our back porch? Encouragement from a professional.
When we befriended a roofing contractor who does other projects, we asked if he would be interested in replacing the floor of our screened-in porch. It was covered in large, ugly white tiles with several spots in poor condition.
He was curious about what was under the tiles. We were shocked to discover a beautiful wood-beamed floor. He recommended that instead of paying him to re-tile—and paying for new tiles—we could save a lot of money by ripping up the tile ourselves, then sanding and staining the wood.
We weren’t confident we could do it ourselves, but his positivity won us over. After being pleasantly surprised that it was quicker and easier to do than we imagined, we now understand the pride of ownership whenever anyone visits and compliments our “new” floor.
Karen Condor, Insurance Copywriter, ExpertInsuranceReviews.com
Seal Crawlspace to Improve Indoor Air Quality
I sealed my crawlspace on the third day after moving in. It reeked of soil and mildew. I installed a vapor barrier, fitted a low-wattage dehumidifier, and added a hygrometer for tracking. It took four hours and left me with a sore back. However, within 48 hours, the humidity dropped from 78 percent to 48 percent. The air smelled cleaner, my allergies eased up, and even my dog stopped scratching.
If you’re a new homeowner and you have a crawlspace, do not ignore it. That space controls the air your family breathes. One plastic barrier can prevent mold, odor, and respiratory flare-ups before they start. Use 6-mil polyethylene sheets at minimum. Overlap the edges and tape every seam. People obsess over kitchens and paint colors, meanwhile, the crawlspace is plotting its revenge. Fix it early and sleep better later.
David Struogano, Managing Director and Mold Remediation Expert, Mold Removal Port St. Lucie
Convert Under-Stairs Space into Management Center
Converting an awkward under-stairs storage space into an organized home management center was surprisingly manageable and immediately improved our daily routine. In my experience helping homeowners prepare for moves, I’ve noticed these transitional spaces often become disorganized dumping grounds rather than functional areas.
The project involved installing adjustable shelving, creating a drop zone for mail and keys, and adding proper lighting—all completed in a single weekend for under $300.
It was about starting with a detailed measurement plan and choosing modular components that could be configured to fit the unusual angles, eliminating the need for custom woodworking that would have tripled the cost and difficulty.
My advice to new homeowners: begin with small, high-impact projects that affect your daily routine rather than jumping into major renovations. These quick wins not only build your confidence with home improvement but also give you time to truly understand how you use your space before investing in larger changes. Remember that Pinterest-perfect results aren’t necessary—functionality should drive your first projects in a new home.
Vidyadhar Garapati, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Movers.com
Upgrade Showerheads and Faucets for Efficiency
Replacing your showerheads and faucets might sound a bit intimidating, but it’s actually a simple DIY project that anyone can tackle. I’ve personally experienced the benefits of upgrading to a new, sleek pull-down kitchen faucet and changing my old showerhead to a water-efficient, high-pressure model. It resulted in noticeably better water efficiency and pressure at home.
You don’t need any special plumbing skills for this, and usually, you just need an adjustable wrench, plumber’s tape, and maybe half an hour of your time.
You want to make sure to turn off the water supply first to keep everyone and your home safe and dry. Then, take off the old fixture by unscrewing it and gently removing it. Get the new one ready, and wrap the threads on its connection with some plumber’s tape to prevent any future leaks.
Next, screw on the new fixture by hand at first to ensure it aligns perfectly. No tools just yet! Once you’re sure everything looks good and is properly aligned, grab your wrench and give it a final, snug fit.
This type of DIY can actually save you money, improve your confidence in handling home repairs, and expand your understanding of how things work around your house. There are also numerous online videos with step-by-step guides to help you through any difficult parts. Being able to do this yourself gives you the freedom to have the fixtures you want, and to not settle for what your home came with.
Gary Bregani, Owner, Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating
Reorganize Garage with Shelving and Storage Systems
One surprisingly manageable DIY project I tackled after buying my home was reorganizing the garage using shelving and storage systems—something that ties directly into what we offer in self-storage. Like many new homeowners, I quickly realized how fast clutter builds up, especially with tools, seasonal gear, and overflow household items. Instead of letting it pile up, I installed wall-mounted shelves, labeled bins, and ceiling storage racks. It took a weekend, but the payoff was huge in terms of space and peace of mind.
For other new homeowners, my biggest tip is to start small and stay organized. You don’t need to tackle every room at once—focus on high-traffic or high-clutter areas first, like garages, basements, or entryways. If you’re stuck deciding what to keep on-site versus off-site, that’s where self-storage comes in. It’s a great option for storing items you don’t need every day but still want to keep, like holiday decorations, extra furniture, or outdoor equipment.
DIY projects are much easier when you clear space to work and stay organized throughout the process. Self-storage can be a big help in giving you the breathing room to take on projects at your own pace—and enjoy the process of making your house a home.
Frank Pressel, Operator, Red River Storage
Install Closet Organization System for Better Storage
Installing a closet organization system is a surprisingly easy do-it-yourself job for first-time homeowners. Storage is greatly increased by upgrading to a custom layout with modular shelves, compartments, and hanging rods. Many homes are equipped with inefficient shelving or simple wire racks. Home improvement retailers sell pre-made kits that usually only need a drill, level, and measuring tape for installation. This improvement is a wise investment in both purpose and well-being because organized environments lower stress and increase everyday efficiency.
Homeowners should measure their closet properly, organize storage areas according to their needs, and firmly fasten all parts to wall studs for optimal results. Selecting movable systems gives you flexibility as your storage requirements change.
Jonathan Probonas, Co-Founder, Crown Movers Montreal
Add Floating Shelves for Stylish Office Storage
After moving into my home, I decided to install floating shelves in my home office. I won’t lie, at first, it seemed like a difficult task, but I was surprised by how manageable it actually was. It not only gave my office a stylish look but also created extra storage space, which was a huge win!
Here’s what I learned from the experience:
1. Plan your layout carefully and take some time to figure out exactly where you want the shelves and how you’ll use them.
2. Use a stud finder—it makes all the difference when you’re hanging heavy shelves!
3. Start small—I began with just one shelf, and it gave me the confidence to keep going.
4. Don’t stress about perfection—my shelves aren’t exactly aligned, but that’s okay. They have character!
It ended up being a fun and budget-friendly project that helped me get more organized and gave my workspace a much-needed upgrade. Plus, every time I look at those shelves, I feel a sense of accomplishment!
Kritika Kanodia, CEO, Write Right
Install Smart Thermostat for Energy Savings
The installation of a smart thermostat became one of my first DIY challenges after acquiring the house, as it turned out to be simpler than I had anticipated. I initially believed this project needed professional assistance, yet I managed to complete it by myself through some research alongside a short YouTube guide that finished in less than an hour. The bonus? My energy bills improved soon after this installation took place.
Every newcomer who purchases their first house must understand they can execute basic home technology and energy efficiency updates by themselves. Reasonable energy-saving projects should begin with door weather-stripping and shower replacement with low-flow models, as well as LED bulb installation. These tasks demand minimal expertise yet cost little while providing permanent reductions in utility expenses.
My advice for saving money involves internet shopping for tools since you might discover deals that lower your costs substantially. The sense of achievement when you complete a job by yourself possesses an invaluable value.
Bhavin Swadas, Founder, Squeal My Deal
