Often when folks move to a new home you put together a  list of projects that you hope to tackle.  However, I do believe it’s usually best to live in your home for a while before jumping into any major renovations (except when there are safety issues or repairs needed to eliminate additional damage).  Likely, you’ll discover projects you thought were a top priority end up not being as important as you first imagined.  Or more likely, these priority projects end up being ones where you need to wait to plan out and/or budget for more precisely.

My family recently purchased and downsized to a 1940’s bungalow.  We love older homes, and now that we’re empty nesters the time was right.  Obviously, we’ll still have space for my son when he bounces back home on college breaks and for my daughter when she’s visiting, but we will definitely be a little more cozy.

While we know we’ll tackle a bathroom remodel in the near future (probably next summer), and a reworking of the kitchen (we’ll tweak it with paint and minor changes to tide us over), there are many smaller changes we can make that will have a huge impact on our day to day living in the space.  Painting the interior and replacing light fixtures are some easy fixes that have a tremendous impact on the spaces.

Also, a little selective shopping goes a long way.  I’ve compiled a list of things I’ve purchased before for former homes that we’ll be adding to this home to save on space or just for convenience.  All are budget friendly for those post holiday funds.  Note: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn affiliate commissions on purchases made through my links.

#1 Shoe Storage Cabinet.  Limited closet space in our new old house made this our number one “must have”.  And I’m not even a shoe gal!  https://amzn.to/4aHx9Jj   I like the rattan fronts on this one and it  looks appropriate for our coastal area home.

#2  Throw pillow covers.  An easy way to switch up some accent colors is to replace pillow covers.  I have the lumbar size in green, because who doesn’t like velvet? https://amzn.to/3Rt9cfZ

#3 Outdoor Patio lights.  Makes every outdoor space an aesthetic hangout zone!   https://amzn.to/47bsVGW

#4 Solar lights.  These lights look really neat with the pattern that shines on the walkway, and I love the copper look!  We’ve had ours almost three years and they’ve held up well. https://amzn.to/41wixbz

#5 Space saving Toaster oven and air fryer, flips up out of the way when not in use!  If you like tidy countertops consider this ninja.
https://amzn.to/41OI0NJ

#6 Weather Station, because no matter where you live, you need to keep an eye on the weather.  Usually every family has at least one weather geek!  This is on sale now too! https://amzn.to/48qbpj4

7. Candle warmer lamp.  I’ve shared this before but worth repeating because I literally use it daily.  Helps your candles last so much longer and works with wax melts too.  Here’s the one I have!  Makes a great gift too! https://amzn.to/4711Aas

#8. And a solo smokeless firepit!  I haven’t bought mine yet, but it’s on my list for when I put our outdoor space together (we’re currently having a fence installed).  https://amzn.to/3H99uUA

While perhaps you’re waiting on some “major” home projects, go ahead and add a few “new touches” to help cozy up your home!

Cheers to a healthy and happy 2024!

Karen