Cheap Ways to Make Your House Look More Expensive

A neutral base tone is a surefire way to spruce up any space. On the websites, in-stores and social media accounts of luxury retailers like Restoration Hardware and Crate & Barrel, large furniture pieces and rugs are often done in neutral tones (such as white, off-white, cream, taupe, beige, gray or greige) and accented with accessories like pillows and blankets to add color. If you have dark furniture that is still in good shape, reupholster it or cover it in neutral tones.

Mirrors are great for accomplishing several goals at once. Not only do they make a room appear larger, but they also enhance light, making the room feel brighter and airier. And if they're large enough, they'll save you precious dollars you'd otherwise have to spend on wall art. (A $60 HomeSense mirror is probably much more affordable than any artwork you'd buy for the same 5' x 2' space.) Hang or place mirrors across from windows to reflect as much light as possible.

Lighting plays an often underrated but crucial role in the look and feel of your home. In addition to making sure every room has either recessed lights or ceiling lights (not just lamps), update any old fixtures that make your space look dated. Quick tips for upgrading your lighting, according to PoshPennies: install oversized pendant lights over kitchen islands or dining areas and sconces on either side of your bed (or on the top shelf of a wall rack), and use warm bulbs and dimmer switches wherever possible.

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to update the look of your kitchen or bathroom is to install new, modern-looking hardware (drawer handles and cabinet pulls-and by "install," we mean fasten with a screwdriver in the holes that have already been properly arranged and drilled). Remove old-fashioned or green-tinged hardware and replace it with sleek, modern options. (Don't forget to hang new towel racks and towel rings in the bathroom).

As we mentioned earlier, built-in shelves are simply stylish. Installing them requires more forethought, cost, and possibly a contractor. In short, they look more expensive than freestanding bookshelves. Fortunately, there are ways to finish IKEA bookshelves so they look like they were custom made for your wall; we've also written a detailed explanation of the process.

The overall look of your home's entrance says a lot (especially to potential buyers). According to Zillow, design experts and color psychologists, there are some recognized "best and worst" colors to paint your front door. Decide what look you want to convey (hint: black looks the classiest and most elegant), and paint accordingly. After you've decided on a color, turn your attention to the door handle and door lights (are they weathered and have black spots?). (And while we're on the subject of quick exterior repairs, you should also repaint your garage doors to increase your home's curb appeal.)

Molding not only makes a room look more interesting and appealing, but it also adds a subtle, sophisticated sophistication. Whether it's wainscoting, picture frames, or trim (a feature often touted in real estate listings), they can transform a room from boring to high-end at relatively little cost.