What Is Fair Housing? Rights, Responsibilities, and Resources

Dusty Rhodes • October 23, 2023

If you’ve ever submitted an offer on a home or applied for a mortgage and felt you were treated unfairly, you aren’t alone. Housing discrimination has existed for decades and continues to be a major issue, although it often appears in subtle forms. Fair housing laws helped address many blatantly discriminatory practices, but you may be wondering what rights you have under fair housing laws and who enforces them.


The Fair Housing Act (FHA) provides rights, responsibilities, and resources for everyone at every stage of the housing process, including buyers, renters, real estate agents, lenders, and brokerages. Fair housing is critical to creating an equitable society free from discrimination.


Whether you’re a homebuyer, renter, or just want to learn more, this article is for you. Read on to learn what you need to know about fair housing, including what it is, the rights it provides, the responsibilities it enforces, and what to do if you’ve been discriminated against. 


What is fair housing?


Fair housing laws prohibit discrimination in the purchase, sale, rental, and financing of housing due to a person’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, and disability. The Fair Housing Act protects everyone, including US citizens, green card holders, and undocumented residents.


The right to fair housing was established by the Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act) in 1968 and has since been through dozens of amendments and executive orders expanding its reach. States, counties, and cities also often have specific housing laws that provide additional protections beyond those offered by the Fair Housing Act, such as prohibiting discrimination based on characteristics such as age, gender identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or source of income (including the receipt of income from affordable housing programs). 


Exceptions to the Fair Housing Act


The Fair Housing Act applies to most housing, but there are a few exceptions where the law doesn’t apply:


  • A dwelling with four or fewer units, if the owner lives in one of the units 
  • Single-family housing sold or rented without a broker, if the private owner doesn’t own more than three single-family homes at once 
  • Religious organizations and private clubs, as long as they don’t discriminate in membership
  • Specific HUD-approved housing for older persons 


Be cautious when applying for or purchasing housing that is exempt from the Fair Housing Act, and take your state and local laws into account as well, as they may offer additional protections beyond the federal law. 


Fair lending and mortgage discrimination


Fair housing also applies to mortgage lending. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (part of the FHA) prohibits lenders from discriminating against borrowers based on a legally protected characteristic at any stage of the mortgage process, including but not limited to: 


  • Refusing to make a mortgage loan or provide other financial assistance for a dwelling
  • Refusing to provide information regarding loans
  • Imposing different terms or conditions on a loan, such as different interest rates, points, or fees
  • Discriminating in appraising a dwelling
  • Conditioning the availability of a loan on a person’s response to harassment
  • Refusing to purchase a loan


An example of mortgage discrimination is redlining, which is the process of denying mortgages, insurance, and other services to residents in specific areas. 


Fair housing rights and responsibilities


The Fair Housing Act provides protections for homebuyers and renters and responsibilities for home sellers, renters, and mortgage lenders. Let’s take a closer look.


Rights of the homebuyer


As a homebuyer, you’re protected from discrimination based on any legally protected characteristic in any part of the homebuying process. This includes financing, finding a real estate agent, touring homes, submitting offers, negotiating, and more.


Rights of the renter


The Fair Housing Act protects both buyers and renters. Here are a few important tenant rights (this is not an exhaustive list):


  • Right to a fair security deposit refund
  • Right to a notice of eviction and a timeframe in which to fix the situation
  • Right to a habitable home
  • Right to privacy
  • Right to quiet enjoyment


Homebuyers and renters can file discrimination complaints with HUD or file lawsuits in state or federal court. Retaliation against someone who filed a complaint is prohibited by law. 


Responsibilities of the home seller and landlord


Home sellers and landlords have to fairly entertain offers from everyone who might want to buy or rent your home. A seller and landlord cannot take any of the following actions because of a person’s race, religion, or other legally protected characteristics (this is not an exhaustive list):


  • Refuse to rent or sell housing 
  • Refuse to negotiate for housing
  • Make housing unavailable
  • Otherwise deny someone a home
  • Set different terms, conditions, or privileges for the sale or rental of a home 
  • Provide different housing services or facilities
  • Falsely deny that housing is available for inspection, sale, or rental 
  • Blockbusting, i.e., for profit, persuading or trying to convince homeowners to sell their homes by suggesting that people of a particular race or other protected characteristic have moved or are about to move into the neighborhood 
  • Deny someone access to, membership, or participation in any organization, facility, or service related to home sales and rentals (such as a multiple listing service), or discriminate against any person in the terms or conditions of access, membership, or participation 


Responsibilities of the lender


Fair lending guarantees the same lending opportunities to everyone, though lenders can legally make distinctions based on non-protected characteristics, such as credit scores. Lenders cannot discriminate against anybody based on race, national origin, or other legally protected characteristics. Some examples of discriminatory practices include (this is not an exhaustive list):


  • Unnecessary closing costs
  • Inflated broker or lender fees
  • Unnecessary recording fees
  • Excessive prepayment penalties
  • Refusing to consider a mortgage applicant’s disability-related income, such as SSI or SSDI
  • Refusing to provide mortgages to a person on parental leave
  • Changing mortgage loan terms at closing without the borrower’s consent


If you’re dealing with a mortgage broker or lender, take notes during and after the process. Also, ensure you receive these items at no cost: 


  • Good Faith Estimate 
  • Truth in Lending Disclosure Statement
  • Copy of your loan application
  • Mortgage Servicing Disclosure Statement 


Receiving a home loan can be a significant barrier to entry to homeownership and has historically been a discriminatory process. If you believe you have experienced lending discrimination, visit HUD’s housing discrimination complaint website to file a complaint. 


Responsibilities of the appraiser


A home appraiser determines the value of a home so it can serve as collateral for a loan. Home appraisals are an essential part of the homebuying process.


Appraisers must fairly value every home they appraise and cannot charge excessive appraisal costs. Lowballing – making an excessively low appraisal based on the homeowners’ race or other protected characteristics – is prohibited. 


Responsibilities of the real estate agent


Real estate agents are bound by all fair housing laws and regulations. Many agents are also members of the National Association of REALTORS®, which provides an additional code of ethics. 


Redfin employs real estate agents and brokers, most of whom are REALTORS®. In addition to any FHA training all agents and brokers must complete as part of their licensing requirements, and the Code of Ethics REALTORS® must abide by, Redfin requires agents and brokers to complete an additional comprehensive FHA training. This training explains the FHA and the risks of non-compliance, Redfin’s Fair Housing Policy, and restates our commitment to honoring every customer. 



Examples of housing discrimination


While landlords and banks don’t often display ads saying “Whites only” or enforce restrictive covenants, discrimination persists in more subtle ways. Housing discrimination still disproportionately affects people of color and other minoritized groups. For example, studies indicate that same-sex couples and transgender persons often experience less favorable treatment than their straight and cisgender counterparts. 


Lending practices are another example. Outright discrimination is illegal, but racialized perceptions of value contributed to the devaluation of property and housing stock in neighborhoods of color.


All forms of housing discrimination are illegal and punishable by federal law, but subtle methods can be harder to prove.

 

Types of housing discrimination


Some common types of housing discrimination have names. While this list is not exhaustive, here are three common examples:


  • Redlining: Redlining was a racist tactic used by banks, lenders, and other businesses to deny mortgages, insurance, and healthcare to people living in certain areas that were deemed to be “hazardous.” This was once legal and supported by the federal Homeowners Loan Corporation (HOLC) but was outlawed by the Fair Housing Act. However, historically redlined communities are often still lower income and inhabited by minoritized groups. Redlining has also become shorthand for many types of historic race-based exclusionary tactics.
  • Steering: Steering in real estate is the illegal practice of guiding prospective homebuyers towards or away from certain areas based on a legally protected characteristic, such as race or gender. This can create homogeneous neighborhoods that often negatively impact immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ+ folks while benefiting white, cisgendered homebuyers. Steering continues to be a form of discrimination.   
  • Lowballing: Lowballing is when a home appraiser makes an excessively low appraisal on the basis of race, religion, or other protected characteristics.


Who enforces fair housing?


The Department of Justice (DOJ) and HUD play a role in enforcing the FHA. HUD and its Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) office handle most enforcement and administration responsibilities. In contrast, the DOJ handles violations of the Fair Housing Act, which are punishable by law. Depending on the severity and frequency of the violations, the DOJ can institute criminal charges or take further legal action.


There are ten HUD regions in the US, each with an FHEO office. These offices manage fair housing complaints and administration in their specific region. Individual states, counties, and cities often have their own housing laws and enforcement agencies where people can file complaints and seek help. Nonprofit organizations can help as well and connect people with resources. 


What about fair lending?


In 2021, HUD and the Federal Housing Finance Administration (FHFA) agreed to work together to enforce the Fair Housing Act and to restate their commitment to fighting discrimination in the homebuying process. This is important because FHFA regulates Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two major government-sponsored mortgage lenders. By partnering with HUD, the FHFA can help ensure Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and other mortgage lenders practice fair lending. 


Fair housing vs. equal housing opportunity


Fair housing, equal housing opportunity, and equal opportunity housing are different terms that all refer to the Fair Housing Act. The difference is in how they’re used. Fair housing generally refers to rules and regulations, while equal housing opportunity refers to real estate businesses that follow the rules. 


Equal housing opportunity is a common phrase used throughout the real estate industry. It indicates that a business advertises they abide by the Fair Housing Act.


How to identify companies that support fair housing 


Fair housing is the law; all brokerages, lenders, agents, landlords, or other housing providers must follow it. However, many people want to look for brokers or lenders that affirmatively show their commitment to fair housing. To find them, look for the Equal Housing Opportunity logo, statement, or slogan. 


Additionally, all advertising of residential real estate for sale and rent, and financing opportunities, must abide by fair housing laws. It’s illegal to make, print, or publish any notice, statement, or advertisement that indicates a preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, or other legally protected characteristics. 


What to do if you experience housing discrimination


If you experience housing discrimination, your first step should be to file a complaint with HUD, your regional FHEO office, or your local housing authority. In cases where you may be evicted or otherwise lose your housing, HUD can assist you as soon as you file and expedite the judicial process. Retaliation against a complainant is illegal, so fight for your rights. 


If you don’t feel comfortable filing a complaint or want to assess your legal rights, consider consulting an attorney. You can also call a government hotline, such as your city or state’s Human Rights Commission. This can get you more immediate help.


Generally, taking notes during any housing, renting, lending consultations, and other real estate-related services is a good idea. A first-hand account can be helpful if you experience discrimination and wish to file a complaint. 



Final thoughts on fair housing: equal housing is a right


Fair housing is a fundamental right that ensures equal access to housing and equal homeownership opportunities. The Fair Housing Act and its additions, including the Equal Opportunity Credit Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, provide legal protections and procedures that are enforceable by law. There are protections for more specific cases as well that this article didn’t cover. 


The Fair Housing Act is over 50 years old and continues to help people in need. However, while the industry has changed, it is not free from discriminatory practices. Expanding legislation and providing additional resources will help everyone receive the right to housing without discrimination. It will take work, but it is necessary. 



Source: Redfin

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.