The ABC's of Real Estate Terms

Dusty Rhodes • December 2, 2019

Need a crash course on real estate terms? This glossary from Zillow will get you started.


DTI, PMI, LTV … TBH, it can be hard to keep all this stuff straight. This lexicon of real estate terms and acronyms will help you speak the language like a pro.


Appraisal management company (AMC): An institution operated independently of a lender that, once notified by a lender, orders a home appraisal.


Appraisal: An informed, impartial and well-documented opinion of the value of a home, prepared by a licensed and certified appraiser and based on data about comparable homes in the area, as well as the appraiser’s own walkthrough.


Approved for short sale: A term that indicates that a homeowner’s bank has approved a reduced listing price on a home, and the home is ready for resale.


American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI): A not-for-profit professional association that sets and promotes standards for property inspections and provides educational opportunities to its members. (i.e., Look for this accreditation or something similar when shopping for a home inspector.)


Attorney state: A state in which a real estate attorney is responsible for closing.


Back-end ratio: One of two debt-to-income ratios that a lender analyzes to determine a borrower’s eligibility for a home loan. The ratio compares the borrower’s monthly debt payments (proposed housing expenses, plus student loan, car payment, credit card debt, maintenance or child support and installment loans) to gross income.


Buyers market: Market conditions that exist when homes for sale outnumber buyers. Homes sit on the market a long time, and prices drop.


Cancellation of escrow: A situation in which a buyer backs out of a home purchase.


Capacity: The amount of money a home buyer can afford to borrow.


Cash-value policy: A homeowners insurance policy that pays the replacement cost of a home, minus depreciation, should damage occur.


Closing: A one- to two-hour meeting during which ownership of a home is transferred from seller to buyer. A closing is usually attended by the buyer, the seller, both real estate agents and the lender.


Closing costs: Fees associated with the purchase of a home that are due at the end of the sales transaction. Fees may include the appraisal, the home inspection, a title search, a pest inspection and more. Buyers should budget for an amount that is 1% to 3% of the home’s purchase price.


Closing disclosure (CD): A five-page document sent to the buyer three days before closing. This document spells out all the terms of the loan: the amount, the interest rate, the monthly payment, mortgage insurance, the monthly escrow amount and all closing costs.


Closing escrow: The final and official transfer of property from seller to buyer and delivery of appropriate paperwork to each party. Closing of escrow is the responsibility of the escrow agent.


Comparative market analysis (CMA): An in-depth analysis, prepared by a real estate agent, that determines the estimated value of a home based on recently sold homes of similar condition, size, features and age that are located in the same area.


Compliance agreement: A document signed by the buyer at closing, in which they agree to cooperate if the lender needs to fix any mistakes in the loan documents.


Comps: Or comparable sales, are homes in a given area that have sold within the past six months that a real estate agent uses to determine a home’s value.


Condo insurance: Homeowners insurance that covers personal property and the interior of a condo unit should damage occur.


Contingencies: Conditions written into a home purchase contract that protect the buyer should issues arise with financing, the home inspection, etc.


Conventional 97: A home loan that requires a down payment equivalent to 3% of the home’s purchase price. Private mortgage insurance, which is required, can be canceled when the owner reaches 80% equity.


Conventional loan: A home loan not guaranteed by a government agency, such as the FHA or the VA.


Days on market (DOM): The number of days a property listing is considered active.


Depository institutions: Banks, savings and loans, and credit unions. These institutions underwrite as well as set home loan pricing in-house.


Down payment: A certain portion of the home’s purchase price that a buyer must pay. A minimum requirement is often dictated by the loan type.


Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): A ratio that compares a home buyer’s expenses to gross income.


Earnest money: A security deposit made by the buyer to assure the seller of his or her intent to purchase.


Equity: A percentage of the home’s value owned by the homeowner.


Escrow account: An account required by a lender and funded by a buyer’s mortgage payment to pay the buyer’s homeowners insurance and property taxes.


Escrow agent: A neutral third-party officer who holds all paperwork and funding in trust until all parties in the transaction fulfill their obligations as part of the transfer of property ownership.


Escrow state: A state in which an escrow agent is responsible for closing.


Fannie Mae: A government-sponsored enterprise chartered in 1938 to help ensure a reliable and affordable supply of mortgage funds throughout the country.


Federal Reserve: The central bank of the United States, established in 1913 to provide the nation with a safer, more flexible and more stable monetary and financial system.


Federal Housing Administration (FHA): A government agency created by the National Housing Act of 1934 that insures loans made by private lenders.


FHA 203(k): A rehabilitation loan backed by the federal government that permits home buyers to finance money into a mortgage to repair, improve or upgrade a home.


Foreclosure: A property repossessed by a bank when the owner fails to make mortgage payments.


Freddie Mac: A government agency chartered by Congress in 1970 to provide a constant source of mortgage funding for the nation’s housing markets.


Funding fee: A fee that protects the lender from loss and also funds the loan program itself. Examples include the VA funding fee and the FHA funding fee.


Gentrification: The process of rehabilitation and renewal that occurs in an urban area as the demographic changes. Rents and property values increase, culture changes and lower-income residents are often displaced.


Guaranteed replacement coverage: Homeowners insurance that covers what it would cost to replace property based on today’s prices, not original purchase price, should damage occur.


Homeowners association (HOA): The governing body of a housing development, condo or townhome complex that sets rules and regulations and charges dues and special assessments used to maintain common areas and cover unexpected expenses respectively.


Home equity line of credit (HELOC): A revolving line of credit with an adjustable interest rate. Like a credit card, this line of credit has a limit. There is a specified time during which money can be drawn. Payment in full is due at the end of the draw period.


Home equity loan: A lump-sum loan that allows the homeowner to use the equity in their home as collateral. The loan places a lien against the property and reduces home equity.


Home inspection: A nondestructive visual look at the systems in a building. Inspection occurs when the home is under contract or in escrow.


Homeowners insurance: A policy that protects the structure of the home, its contents, injury to others and living expenses should damage occur.


Housing ratio: One of two debt-to-income ratios that a lender analyzes to determine a borrower’s eligibility for a home loan. The ratio compares total housing cost (principal, homeowners insurance, taxes and private mortgage insurance) to gross income.


In escrow: A period of time (30 days or longer) after a buyer has made an offer on a home and a seller has accepted. During this time, the home is inspected and appraised, and the title searched for liens, etc.


Jumbo loan: A loan amount that exceeds the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac limit, which is generally $425,100 in most parts of the U.S.


Listing price: The price of a home, as set by the seller.


Loan estimate: A three-page document sent to an applicant three days after they apply for a home loan. The document includes loan terms, monthly payment and closing costs.


Loan-to-value ratio (LTV): The amount of the loan divided by the price of the house. Lenders reward lower LTV ratios.


Market value coverage: Homeowners insurance that covers the amount the home would go for on the market, not the cost to repair, should damage occur.


Mechanic’s lien: A hold against a property, filed in the county recorder’s office by someone who’s done work on a home and not been paid. If the homeowner refuses to pay, the lien allows a foreclosure action.


Mortgage broker: A licensed professional who works on behalf of the buyer to secure financing through a bank or other lending institution.


Mortgage companies: Lenders who underwrite loans in-house and fund loans from a line of credit before selling them off to a loan buyer.


Mortgage interest deduction: Mortgage interest paid in a year subtracted from annual gross salary.


Mortgage interest rate: The price of borrowing money. The base rate is set by the Federal Reserve and then customized per borrower, based on credit score, down payment, property type and points the buyer pays to lower the rate.


Multiple listing service (MLS): A database where real estate agents list properties for sale.


Origination fee: A fee, charged by a broker or lender, to initiate and complete the home loan application process.


Piggyback loan: A combination of loans bundled to avoid private mortgage Insurance. One loan covers 80% of the home’s value, another loan covers 10% to 15% of the home’s value, and the buyer contributes the remainder.


Principal, interest, property taxes and homeowners insurance (PITI): The components of a monthly mortgage payment.


Private mortgage insurance (PMI): A fee charged to borrowers who make a down payment that is less than 20% of the home’s value. The fee, 0.3% to 1.5% of the yearly loan amount, can be canceled in certain circumstances when the borrower reaches 20% equity.


Points: Prepaid interest owed at closing, with one point representing 1% of the loan. Paying points, which are tax deductible, will lower the monthly mortgage payment.


Pre-approval: A thorough assessment of a borrower’s income, assets and other data to determine a loan amount they would qualify for. A real estate agent will request a pre-approval or pre-qualification letter before showing a buyer a home.


Pre-qualification: A basic assessment of income, assets and credit score to determine what, if any, loan programs a borrower might qualify for. A real estate agent will request a pre-approval or pre-qualification letter before showing a buyer a home.


Property tax exemption: A reduction in taxes based on specific criteria, such as installation of a renewable energy system or rehabilitation of a historic home.


Round table closing: All parties (the buyer, the seller, the real estate agents and maybe the lender) meet at a specified time to sign paperwork, pay fees and finalize the transfer of homeownership.


Sellers market: Market conditions that exist when buyers outnumber homes for sale. Bidding wars are common.


Short sale: The sale of a home by an owner who owes more on the home than it’s worth (i.e., “underwater” or “upside down”). The owner’s bank must approve a lower listing price before the home can be sold.


Special assessment: A fee charged by a condo complex HOA when cash on reserve is not enough to cover unexpected expenses.


Tax lien: The government’s legal claim against property when the homeowner neglects or fails to pay a tax debt.


Third-party review required: Verbiage included in a home listing to indicate that the lender has not yet approved the home for short sale. The seller must submit the buyer’s offer to the lender for approval.


Title insurance: Insurance that protects the buyer and lender should an individual or entity step forward with a claim that was attached to the property before the seller transferred legal ownership of the property or “title” to the buyer.


Transfer stamps: The form in which transfer taxes are paid by the home buyer. Stamps can also serve as proof of transfer tax payment.


Transfer taxes: Fees imposed by the state, county or municipality on transfer of title.


Under contract: A period of time (30 days or longer) after a buyer has made an offer on a home and a seller has accepted. During this time, the home is inspected and appraised, and the title is searched for liens, etc.


Underwater or upside down: A situation in which a homeowner owes more for a property than it’s worth.


Underwriting: A process a lender follows to assess a home loan applicant’s income, assets and credit, and the risk involved in offering the applicant a mortgage.


VA home loan: A home loan partially guaranteed by the United States Department of Veteran Affairs and offered by private lenders, such as banks and mortgage companies.


VantageScore: A credit scoring model lenders use to make lending decisions. A borrower’s score is based on bill-paying habits, debt balances, age, variety of credit accounts and number of inquiries on credit reports.


Walkthrough: A buyer’s final inspection of a home before closing.


Water certificate: A document that certifies that a water account has been paid in full. The seller must produce this certificate at closing.


Source: Zillow


 

Dusty Rhodes Properties is the Best Realtor in Myrtle Beach! We do everything in our power to help you find the home of your dreams. With experience, expertise, and passion, we are the perfect partner for you in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. We love what we do and it shows. With more than 22 years of experience in the field, we know our industry like the back of our hands. There’s no challenge too big or too small, and we dedicate our utmost energy to every project we take on. We search thousands of the active and new listings from Aynor, Carolina Forest, Conway, Garden City Beach, Longs, Loris, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Surfside Beach real estate listings to find the hottest deals just for you!


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How to Move Out After Selling a House

By Dusty Rhodes • October 13, 2025
From the first coat of paint you used to freshen up your house’s trim to the stress of wrangling your way to a deal, you’ve been through a lot in that place. Now you’ve made it to the final hurdle of selling a home: moving out! Don’t worry, this is the easy part… but you want to do it right. Here’s how to get through the last leg of your journey without any bumps along the way. How to move out on time Once the paperwork is signed at closing, the buyers will officially own the house—and you won’t. That means that, technically, if you or your stuff is still there after the close, “the buyer could evict you,” says Joshua Jarvis , founder of Jarvis Team Realty in Duluth, GA. So make sure to have your exit strategy in place! Still, most buyers will understand if you need a bit more time and have a legitimate reason—like if you can’t move until the weekend due to your work schedule. Just be sure to discuss these issues as soon as possible before the close, so your buyers can plan accordingly. Decide what to leave behind To make sure you’re leaving behind everything the buyer wanted—and that you agreed to—double-check the closing documents . There should be an itemized list of what comes with the house . And even if the buyers didn’t formally request them, it’s just good form to leave certain types of things behind. Such as? “Generally speaking, you should leave anything that’s bolted to the wall,” says Jarvis. “Some homeowners want to take their fans and blinds to the next home, but generally if it’s screwed in, it stays.” Also, if you and the buyers agreed to transfer any services—such as alarm monitoring or pest control —be sure to set that up before you go. Leave the buyers a detailed note in the house, or ask your agent to get in touch with theirs to make sure the transfer goes smoothly. If you do inadvertently take an item that the buyers had requested, they have the right to ask for it back—and they could potentially sue you in civil court for the cost of a replacement. So, when in doubt, feel free to check with the buyers before you grab and go. But don’t leave anything else behind Just as important as what you leave behind is what you don’t. Your buyers have a right to move into a home that’s been cleared of furniture and other movable items they didn’t expressly request. “Some folks leave all kinds of unwanted clothes, furniture, paint cans, and other items, thinking they are helping the buyers,” Jarvis says. If you truly think your buyers might love to have your old planting pots or kiddie equipment, go ahead and ask—but please don’t assume they’ll welcome your leftovers. Even if you’re careful, you might forget something—at which point the buyers may contact their agent to get it back to you, but they also have the legal right to just keep or get rid of it. So double-check areas (e.g., the attic, garage, basement, storage shed, kitchen, and bathroom drawers) where people commonly overlook items. Clean up It’s common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions but also clean. However, that doesn’t mean you have to leave it immaculate. “Generally, you shouldn’t have to pay to have it deep cleaned,” Jarvis says. In most cases, a simple broom-clean will do. That means wiping down the countertops, cleaning out drawers, sweeping or vacuuming all the floors, and giving the bathroom and kitchen appliances a once-over so the new owners aren’t grossed out when they arrive. Are you forgetting anything? Before you close the door for the last time, run through a quick checklist. Did you eyeball every room for stray items? Have you forwarded your mail and turned off the utilities? Is the water running in the jacuzzi? We all get in a bit of a rush even in the best planned moves, but you won’t be able to get back in, so it can’t hurt to do a final run-through before you move out. Once you’re ready, it’s time to leave. You can drop a line to your real estate agent to let them know you’re out, although it’s usually a courtesy more than a necessity. If you’re feeling truly gracious, feel free to leave a note, card, or bottle of bubbly congratulating the people who’ve inherited your former home. Given all the fond memories you’ve built between those walls, wouldn’t it be nice to start the home’s new owners off on the right foot? And buy yourself some Champagne, too. Make it the good stuff—you’ve earned it. 

When Are You Considered a First-Time Homebuyer Again?

By Dusty Rhodes • October 6, 2025
Buying a home is an exciting time, whether this is your first time purchasing a house or you’re a repeat buyer. But if you’ve owned a home before, you may be wondering if you can be a first-time home buyer again. In some cases, yes, you can. In this Redfin article, we’ll go over what qualifications you need to meet and when you can be considered a first-time homebuyer again. Whether you’re buying a home in Atlanta, GA , or a condo in Portland, OR , read on to find out if you’re eligible to be a first-time homebuyer twice. Key takeaways Usually, you’re a first-time homebuyer again if you haven’t owned a home in 3 years. Some special situations may also qualify you as a first-time buyer. Benefits include down payment and closing cost assistance and lower interest rates. When are you considered a first-time homebuyer again? Typically, you’re considered a first-time homebuyer again if you have not owned a primary residence for at least three years. There are several additional reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer again, which we’ll explore below. Some first-time homebuyer programs have different definitions of “first-time homebuyer,” so check with the specific program before proceeding. Qualifications to be considered a first-time homebuyer There are other reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: You haven’t owned a primary residence for 3 years: This means if you owned a home, but sold it and rented for 3 (or more) years, you can be considered a first-time home buyer again. If you’re buying with another person, only one of you needs to meet the criteria to use most first-time home buyer programs. You’re a single-parent buying on your own: If you’ve never purchased a home by yourself and are a divorced single-parent, you may qualify again. Even if you purchased a home with your former spouse, you likely still meet the criteria. You’re a displaced homemaker/family caregiver: If you are a displaced homemaker who doesn’t or didn’t earn wages from employment and has only owned a home with a former spouse, you’re likely considered a first-time homebuyer. You previously owned a mobile home: If you owned a mobile home or property not affixed to a foundation, then you likely qualify. Your previous home was out of compliance: If your home had building code violations or safety issues that could not be repaired or brought into compliance for less than the home’s value, you’re likely eligible. Benefits of being a first-time homebuyer again There are benefits to being a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: Access to first-time homebuyer programs: One of the biggest benefits is the ability to use first-time homebuyer programs such as down payment and closing cost assistance , grants, credits, or loans. Every program has different qualifications, so make sure to research each program or speak with your agent and lender to explore options. Options for low down payment mortgages: There are several loans available for first-time buyers that offer lower down payment amounts. For example, Freddie Mac’s Home Possible and Fannie Mae’s Home Ready offer down payment amounts as low as 3%. Potentially lower mortgage rates: Sometimes, lenders will offer slightly lower mortgage rates to first-time borrowers to help them buy their first home. FAQs about first-time homebuyers Can I be a first-time homebuyer again if I previously owned a home? Yes, as long as you haven’t owned a primary residence in the last 3 years, or you owned a home while previously married. Do both homebuyers need to be first-time homebuyers to qualify? No, in most cases, as long as one homebuyer meets the qualifying criteria, then you’re considered a first-time homebuyer. However, some programs require both homebuyers to be first-timers. Can I qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan again? Yes, for the most part, if you qualify as a “first-time homebuyer,” you can get another first-time homebuyer loan. Every lender and loan is different, so be sure to read the eligibility criteria thoroughly. Are there income limits for programs? Yes, many first-time homebuyer programs have income limits. This means you won’t qualify if you make more than the specified annual amount.

10 Home Renovation Projects Under $1,000 That Add Lasting Value

By Dusty Rhodes • September 29, 2025
Enhancing your living space doesn’t always require a hefty budget. With the right updates, you can add real value to your home for under $1,000. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home in Grand Rapids, MI , or looking for some easy DIY projects for your house in Portland, OR , these cost-effective upgrades can breathe new life into your space. To dig deeper into this topic, we spoke with Kevin Brasler, executive editor at nonprofit Consumers’ Checkbook , a consumer advocacy group that helps homeowners save money and make smart choices. With decades of experience evaluating service providers, Kevin shares insights on how to budget wisely, avoid common renovation mistakes, and know when to hire a professional versus taking the DIY route. 1. Add fresh paint to the walls of your home Painting is one of the most affordable ways to refresh your home. A gallon of quality paint costs $30 to $50, with a full room averaging around $350 . Neutral shades like gray, beige, or white appeal to most buyers, while accent colors such as navy, forest green, or mustard add personality. For a calming vibe, try sage or powder blue. Brasler notes that painting is one of the best DIY-friendly projects homeowners can take on. “Good DIY projects are those that involve mostly labor: painting, basic tile work, installing fixtures that don’t require new wiring or plumbing, landscaping, and most flooring jobs,” he says. 2. Update your cabinet hardware A cabinet hardware update is a subtle yet effective strategy to elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Swapping outdated or generic cabinet handles and knobs for modern, stylish alternatives instantly transforms kitchens and bathrooms. Consider sleek brushed nickel handles for a contemporary touch, or opt for vintage-inspired brass knobs for a timeless charm. This modest investment typically costs between $2 to $10 per piece. 3. Change the kitchen backsplash A new backsplash can quickly refresh your kitchen while protecting your walls. A custom kitchen backsplash protects your walls from daily wear and creates a focal point that elevates the entire room. Opt for affordable ceramic or glass tiles, which can be found for as low as $1 to $5 per square foot. Staying within a $1,000 budget for a standard-sized kitchen is doable with those materials. Or you can go for a peel-and-stick backsplash that is not only budget-friendly, but a quick solution to make your kitchen stand out. Brasler stresses that getting multiple estimates is critical for even small-scale projects like this. “The biggest mistake homeowners make is not getting multiple bids. Even for smaller projects, you should get at least three written estimates; five is better,” he explains. 4. Switch to energy-efficient lighting By making the switch to energy-efficient lighting, you’ll not only improve the sustainability of your home but also create a more comfortable and inviting living environment. Switching to LED bulbs, which typically cost between $2 to $10 each, saves energy and reduces utility bills over time. Beyond the financial benefits, the crisp and vibrant illumination of energy-efficient lighting can effortlessly enhance your home’s overall mood and appeal. 5. Create a beautiful landscape A simple landscaping update is another low-cost project that adds value. Try planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the size and variety. Add mulch or decorative stones to create a polished look for approximately $50 to $150, while adding affordable outdoor lighting options typically range from $50 to $200. Low-maintenance features lower costs down while still making a strong impression. For most landscaping updates, DIY is both practical and cost-effective. Still, Brasler advises calling in professionals for anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural work. 6. Install a smart thermostat A smart thermostat, such as popular models like Nest or Ecobee, typically costs between $150 to $300, depending on the brand and features. Homeowners can often handle the installation themselves, avoiding additional labor costs. Once installed, these intelligent devices learn your preferences, allowing for automated temperature adjustments, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. 7. Refurbish or paint the front door Refresh your curb appeal by refurbishing or painting the front door – a low-cost project with instant impact. Sanding and restaining often costs under $100 and requires just a few materials. Another choice is to use high-quality exterior paint, which typically ranges from $30 to $50 per gallon, providing a fresh, vibrant color that suits your home’s style. 8. Add floating shelves or built-ins Consider adding floating shelves or built-in storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized. Floating shelves, available for as little as $20 to $50 per shelf, provide an affordable and stylish way to showcase decor or organize essentials. For a more customized approach, DIY built-ins can be crafted using plywood or ready-to-assemble shelving units, typically ranging from $100 to $300. 9. Upgrade your kitchen sink and faucet Breathe new life into your kitchen with a sink and faucet upgrade. Faucets usually run $100 to $300, and sinks $200 to $500. Consider a sleek pull-down faucet and a resilient stainless steel or granite composite sink to improve both function and style. Spending $300 to $800 on a sink and faucet upgrade can instantly refresh your kitchen’s look and make daily tasks easier. 10. Add safety measures to protect your home Smart security cameras or a basic surveillance system now offer affordable and effective protection. Investing in a home surveillance system, typically from $200 to $500, allows real-time monitoring and deterrence against potential threats. The addition of smart cameras, with features like motion detection and remote access via smartphone apps, can improve your home’s overall safety and convenience. With a budget-conscious investment of $500 to $1,000, you can create a comprehensive security network covering critical areas of your property. Tips for finding good contractors Even for smaller projects, working with contractors requires careful planning. Brasler emphasizes the value of comparison shopping. “Get proposals and detailed pricing from at least three reputable, licensed contractors,” he advises. “The only way to ensure you’re paying a fair price is to initiate competition.” He also suggests: Check references thoroughly. Ask questions like: Did the company follow plans? Did it finish on time? Was the work professional? Did the contractor offer low-cost solutions and stick to agreed prices? Were problems handled promptly and effectively? Did the team communicate clearly throughout the project? Was disruption to your daily life kept to a minimum? Did the finished results meet your expectations for quality and appearance? Was the contractor flexible and fair about changes if you adjusted plans? Ask neighbors and friends for referrals. Word-of-mouth often uncovers the best local contractors. Look for complaints. Check ratings at Checkbook.org or your local Better Business Bureau and be cautious with online reviews as they can’t always be trusted. Common mistakes when budgeting for small renovations Brasler states the biggest budgeting mistake is skipping multiple bids. “A contractor charging $800 might be using premium materials while the $500 bid uses builder-grade stuff. Try to get prices from each business for the exact same work,” he explains. He also reminds homeowners not to assume that a low price means low quality. “For decades we have evaluated all kinds of businesses and often find some of the best companies have the lowest prices,” he says. When to DIY vs. hire a pro While DIY saves money, Brasler stresses knowing your limits. “Call in pros to deal with anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural changes. Ditto for work that requires a permit and inspection,” he advises. For tasks like painting, basic landscaping, or adding shelves, homeowners can usually manage on their own. Keep expectations realistic since DIY projects often take longer and may not match professional results. The bottom line Budget-friendly renovations under $1,000 can make a big difference in your home’s look, comfort, and value. From painting and landscaping to updating fixtures and adding smart technology, these projects prove you don’t need to overspend to refresh your space. As Brasler reminds homeowners, “the key is balancing creativity with caution.” By comparing bids, avoiding common budgeting mistakes, and knowing when to call in the pros, you can achieve lasting results without stretching your wallet.