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| LIFE IN SOLERA | MARCH 2026 | 7 REAL ESTATE REPORT Many Solera homeowners would love to freshen up their homes, but with today's prices, a full remodel can feel out of reach. The good news is that you do not need a large budget to make meaningful improvements. A few smart, low-cost updates can make your home more comfortable, safer, and even more appealing if you plan to sell in the future. Here are practical, budget-friendly ideas that work especially well for senior homeowners. 1. Focus on comfort and safety first The best upgrades are the ones you enjoy every day. Simple improvements can include: • Installing grab bars in the bathroom • Adding brighter LED lighting in hallways and bathrooms • Replacing slippery bath mats with non-slip surfaces • Adding night-lights in bedrooms and along walkways These changes are inexpensive, but they can make a big difference in day-to-day comfort and peace of mind. 2. Fresh paint makes the biggest impact for the least money A fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable ways to update your home. Lighter, neutral colors: • Make rooms feel brighter and larger • Help with visibility as lighting changes with age • Appeal to future buyers if you ever decide to sell You do not have to repaint the entire home. Even repainting just the main living area or hallway can make your home feel new again. 3. Update hardware instead of cabinets If your kitchen or bathroom cabinets are in good shape, replacing them is usually unnecessary. Instead, consider: • New drawer pulls and cabinet handles • Soft-close hinges • A new faucet in the kitchen or bathroom These small changes modernize the space without the cost of new cabinetry. 4. Improve lighting for both style and function Good lighting is especially important for seniors. Low-cost lighting updates include: • Swapping old bulbs for bright, warm LED bulbs • Replacing outdated light fixtures in dining areas or bathrooms • Adding under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen Better lighting improves safety and makes your home feel more inviting. 5. Simple f looring solutions Replacing all f looring can be expensive, but you still have affordable options. You might consider: • Professional carpet cleaning to refresh existing carpet • Area rugs to update the look of a room • Replacing only worn or damaged sections of f looring If you do replace f looring, look for low-maintenance, slip-resistant options that are easy to clean. 6. Window treatments and soft updates New window coverings can change the entire look of a room. Inexpensive upgrades include: • Simple blinds or light-filtering shades • New curtain panels • Decorative throw pillows or updated bedding These soft updates are affordable and allow you to refresh your space without construction. 7. Energy-saving upgrades that help with Beaumont's summer heat Living in Beaumont means dealing with hot summers. Small improvements can help lower cooling costs and increase comfort. Consider: • Sealing gaps around doors and windows • Adding weather stripping • Installing a programmable or smart thermostat • Using ref lective window film on sun-exposed windows These upgrades are relatively low-cost and can reduce monthly utility bills. 8. Do not over-improve for the neighborhood One common mistake homeowners make is spending far more than the surrounding homes support. If your goal is to enjoy your home, update for comfort and safety. If your goal is to protect resale value, focus on clean, well- maintained, and neutral improvements rather than luxury upgrades. 9. Create a simple update plan Before spending money, make a short list: 1. What bothers you most in your home right now? 2. What would make your daily life easier? 3. What can be done under a set budget? This helps prevent impulse spending and keeps your updates focused on what truly matters. Final thought Updating your home does not have to mean tearing out walls or spending tens of thousands of dollars. Small, thoughtful improvements can make your home more comfortable, safer, and more enjoyable to live in — while still protecting your investment. If you ever have questions about which improvements make the most sense for today's Beaumont market, it can be helpful to speak with a local real estate professional who understands both the Solera community and current buyer expectations. love to freshen up their homes, but Updating Your Solera Home Without Spending A Lot of $$$ By Diana Mangan, Realtor and Resident

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