The holidays are just around the corner, and with them come family gatherings, festive parties, and out-of-town guests. If you're a homeowner, you may be thinking about ways to spruce up your home before company arrives. Whether you want to make your space more comfortable or create a lasting impression on your visitors, there are several quick renovation projects that can be tackled before the holiday season kicks into full swing.
Here are some renovation ideas to get your home holiday-ready without breaking the bank or your schedule.
Nothing changes the look and feel of a room as quickly as a fresh coat of paint. Whether you decide to stick with neutral tones or add a pop of color to liven up your space, painting is an easy, affordable way to make your home look clean and updated.
Tip for DIYers: If you’re short on time, focus on high-traffic areas like the entryway, kitchen, or living room, where guests will spend the most time. A weekend is usually all it takes to complete these areas.
Tip for Contractors: Suggest accent walls or feature areas to your clients if they’re looking to add more character without repainting the entire house.
Since your guests will undoubtedly spend time in the bathroom, it’s worth giving this space a bit of extra attention. Small upgrades can go a long way toward making the room feel fresh and inviting. Consider swapping out the vanity, installing a new faucet, or adding fresh grout to tile. A new mirror or light fixture can also instantly modernize the space.
DIY Tip: If you’re tight on time, focus on simple tasks like replacing the shower curtain, adding decorative towels, and updating cabinet hardware for a quick refresh.
Contractor Tip: Recommend easy-to-install features like a new vanity or backsplash for clients looking for a more polished, professional look.
Proper lighting can transform the ambiance of your home, making it more welcoming and cozy for guests. Consider installing new light fixtures in key areas such as the dining room, kitchen, or entryway. Swapping outdated fixtures for more modern designs can quickly elevate the space.
DIY Tip: Installing dimmers is a simple weekend project that can add a layer of sophistication to your home, creating the perfect mood for holiday dinners and gatherings.
Contractor Tip: Recommend energy-efficient LED lighting to clients looking to reduce their energy bills and brighten their homes at the same time.
First impressions count, and the exterior of your home is the first thing your guests will see. A few small changes can make a big impact when it comes to curb appeal. Power wash the driveway and walkways, repaint the front door, and update outdoor lighting fixtures. Adding seasonal décor like planters, wreaths, or a welcome mat can also give your entrance a festive feel.
DIY Tip: Focus on cleaning and organizing outdoor spaces. Trim back any overgrown shrubs or trees and make sure walkways are clear and safe.
Contractor Tip: Offer exterior painting services or suggest adding stone veneers or new siding to clients who want a major curb appeal boost before guests arrive.
The kitchen is often the heart of holiday gatherings, so make sure yours is ready for extra foot traffic and meal preparation. Consider upgrading countertops, replacing old cabinet hardware, or installing a stylish backsplash. Even a quick change like swapping out bar stools or adding open shelving can make your kitchen more functional and visually appealing.
DIY Tip: If a full renovation isn’t feasible, focus on smaller updates like adding a new rug, reorganizing kitchen storage, or investing in upgraded cookware and serving ware.
Contractor Tip: If your clients are short on time, offer a kitchen refresh service, where you focus on making simple, impactful changes that can be completed in just a few days, such as painting cabinets or replacing the sink.
Adding crown molding or trim is a simple way to add elegance and refinement to any room in the house. It works especially well in living rooms, dining rooms, or hallways where you’ll be entertaining guests. This project may take a bit more time and skill, but the payoff is well worth it for the elevated look it provides.
DIY Tip: For experienced DIYers, installing crown molding can be a rewarding weekend project. Just be sure to measure carefully and have the right tools on hand.
Contractor Tip: Offering molding installation as a pre-holiday service can help clients give their homes a more polished, finished look before their guests arrive.
Worn-out flooring can drag down the overall appearance of your home. If you’ve been considering new flooring, now is the perfect time to make the change. Installing new hardwood, laminate, or luxury vinyl can be a relatively quick project that dramatically improves the aesthetic of your home.
DIY Tip: If a full flooring replacement isn’t in the cards, consider refinishing hardwood floors or giving them a deep clean.
Contractor Tip: Offer floor refinishing or installation services as part of your holiday prep package, especially in high-traffic areas like the entryway and living room.
With the holiday season quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to complete a few quick renovation projects that will make your home more comfortable and inviting. Whether you’re refreshing your walls with a new coat of paint, upgrading your lighting, or making over your guest bathroom, these simple updates will help your home look its best before guests arrive.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast looking to tackle a project or a contractor helping clients get ready for the holidays, these renovation ideas will have any home ready for the most wonderful time of the year!
Ready to start your holiday home prep? Let us help! Whether you're a contractor or a DIYer, we have the tools, materials, and expert advice to make your pre-holiday renovations a success.