8 Tips on how to make your house look expensive on a budget

Finding a way to make your house look expensive and stylish can be costly - but it doesn’t have to be. With a few smart changes and a little creativity, you can give your space an upmarket feel without overspending on your budget. Often, it’s not about buying everything new, but about making the most of what you already have and knowing where to invest in the details that matter. Here are some simple ideas to decorate your home and make your house look more expensive attracting the neighbour’s full attention.

1. Add plants: Plants bring life, colour, and a fresh feel to any room. From large potted plants to small flowers, a touch of green instantly brings a space to life. You can find affordable options in garden centres and supermarkets. Creative garden renovation ideas can really make the most of your outdoor space.
2. Paint your doors a contrasting colour: When considering how to decorate your home, painting can make a huge difference to people’s perception. Giving your doors, a fresh coat of paint in a shade that stands out from your walls can instantly lift the look of a room. It’s a small detail that adds depth and style without costing much.
3. Upgrade your lighting: Instead of sticking with standard light fittings, choose designs that make more of a statement. There are plenty of products that look high-end but don’t break the bank. Swapping them in can lift the feel of a room in an instant.
4. Incorporate mirrors: Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of more space, both of which give your home a high-end feel. Look out for large statement mirrors or a gallery wall of smaller ones to add a touch of class on a budget.
5. Add art to your walls: If you’re looking at ways to make your home look more expensive, artwork instantly gives extra personality to a space. You don’t have to invest in expensive pieces. Affordable prints, photographs, or even DIY pieces can make just as much impact. Choose frames that suit your décor to give a polished and finished look.
6. Use layers: Layering fabrics like throws, cushions, and rugs can add depth to your space. Choose materials that look and feel rich, such as velvet, which can be found on a budget in high street stores, charity shops, or online.
7. Add wall trim or moulding: Installing trim, panelling, or moulding can make a room feel more elegant in an instant. It’s a classic detail that works in both modern and traditional spaces, and with DIY options available that won’t break the bank, it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
8. Declutter and remove unnecessary items: Take a fresh look at your home and remove anything that doesn’t add value to the space. You don’t need to go full minimalist. Simply refining what you have lets your favourite pieces stand out.

If you’re thinking of upgrading and exploring ways of financing a home renovation, then a Home Improvement Loan from Avant Money is a great way to get you started. You can borrow from €5,000 to €75,000 with flexible loan terms from 12 to 120 months*. Apply online, and if eligible, approval in principle can be given in minutes.

Avant Money, as a branch of Bankinter, is now offering interest rates on savings in Ireland. Want to plan ahead and start saving for the next renovation job? Discover the fixed term deposit accounts now available from Bankinter.

With fixed interest rates, your repayments will stay the same, and there are no set-up or early repayment fees. Avant Money’s online Eligibility Checker can help you understand if you’re likely to be approved, and you can complete the application process online. Use our handy Loan Calculator to find out how much you can borrow today.

Rates and loan terms are correct as of 24th March 2026 and are subject to change. The Maximum APR (Annual Percentage Rate) on all Avant Money loans is 19.9%. Minimum loan term is 12 months, and maximum term is 120 months. Loan terms vary depending on the purpose of the loan. Terms greater than 84 months up to a maximum of 120 months are only available for Refinance and Home Improvement Loans of €20,000 to €75,000.

Representative example: On a €30,000 loan over 5 years, at a fixed rate of 6.5% (6.7% APR) you will pay €586.98 a month. The total cost of credit would be €5,219.07 and the total amount repayable would be €35,219.07.

Lending criteria, terms and conditions will apply. Personal Loans are available to residents of the Republic of Ireland over the age of 18 and are subject to repayment capacity and financial status. Proof of income and a credit reference agency search will be required to help us approve your request. Personal Loans are unsecured and not available for business purposes, house purchase or investment.

Our interest rates vary depending on the value of your loan and credit profile. We will assign you the appropriate interest rate once your application has been reviewed. To find out more about the loan values and applicable interest rates, check out our rate table at Avant Money Personal Loans.

Bankinter S.A., trading as Avant Money, is authorised by the Banco de España in Spain and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for consumer protection rules.