Decorating Your Home: 5 Style Tips that Cost Less than $50

Do you dream of adding style to your home but don't have a lot of money? Don't despair! There are 5 things you can do that will help your house look beautiful without spending much money.

1. Declutter your home.

Nothing zaps a great look like clutter. Look around you. Do you have paper plies or mail stacks? Do you just add to your knickknack collection rather than rotate your select favorites? When was the last time you saw the front of your refrigerator? Simple solutions that cost very little money are to invest in nice office trays, pretty bulletin boards and frames for your child's artwork. Make the trash can handy to immediately toss unwanted mail. Taking away the clutter will make your space appear larger and help your treasured objects be emphasized rather than lost.

2. Make display surfaces pretty.

A key element in houses that are decorated by a professional rather than want-to-be is the art of accessorizing. Flat surfaces such as mantels, bookcases, and coffee tables are the perfect places to restyle for less. The one important point here is to keep it simple. Bookcases should only be 2/3 full. A mantle should not have mirror above it (a very dated look) ? choose artwork instead. Place no more than three items on an end table ? cluster these varied but related items together for more impact.

3. Paint to Impress.

Paint, as you know, makes the most dramatic change for the money. Be bold, be daring and most importantly -- don't do white! Choose a complex color. This simply means if you would use several different words to describe the color than it is probably complex. For example; if you said it was a kinda "gold, straw, beige-y color" than it is probably a complex color. If you said "just yellow" - it probably is not a very inspiring look. A beautiful color on the walls can make the room go from ordinary to extraordinary in less than a day and usually for less than $50.

4. Make it personal

Decorating your house is a job but styling your home is fun. Personalization is putting your interests, hobbies or values into your décor to really make it your own. Buy simple ? read inexpensive - curtains at your local big-box store and then buy exquisite wide ribbon to hot glue on the edge. Use your grandson's first sneakers to tie back the den curtains. Use some family photos but just promise not to use too many. A guest coming for a visit may find all those staring eyes unnerving.

5. Change with the seasons.

You know the drill ? lighter brighter for spring/summer and darker richer for fall/winter. This easy task of changing the fabric items around the home can help you make it seasonal. Change out placements, bath towels, and accent pillows. The final touch is to purchase a seasonal bouquet of flowers: fresh or fake- these centerpieces can add punch to a room.

Decorate your home by spending time not money in decluttering, painting and accessorizing. By following these simple tips, you can make a huge impact by bringing your home from average to spectacular for very little money.

Julie Dana is a professional Interior Redesigner and Accredited Staging Professional. Her company, The Home Stylist, offers online decorating consultations, do-it-yourself decorating plans and real-estate staging. Visit http://www.thehomestylist.com to take a fun style quiz, vote on a color poll, and sign up for free decorating e-newsletter.

In The News:

Yahoo! News: Top Stories

President-elect Barack Obama speaks about the economy at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va.,  Thursday, Jan. 8, 2009. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)AP - Pushed by fellow Democrats, President-elect Barack Obama agreed to modest changes in his proposed tax cuts on Friday after inviting lawmakers to "just show me" ideas for fixing an economy shedding jobs at an alarming rate. Democratic congressional officials said that Obama aides came under pressure in closed-door talks to jettison or significantly alter a proposed tax credit for creating jobs.



Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich makes a statement  Friday,  Jan. 9, 2009 in Chicago, after he was impeached by the Illinois House on a wide array of offenses including criminal corruption and wasting taxpayers money. The two term Democrat becomes the first governor in the history of Illinois to be impeached. (AP Photo/Paul Beaty)AP - Gov. Rod Blagojevich was impeached Friday by Illinois lawmakers furious that he turned state government into a "freak show," setting the stage for an unprecedented trial in the state Senate that could get him thrown out of office.



A Palestinian youth uses a sling-shot to hurl a stone from behind a burning tire barricade during clashes with Israeli troops at a protest against Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip, in the West Bank village of A-Ram, on the outskirts of Jerusalem, Friday, Jan. 9, 2009. Israeli jets and helicopters bombarded Gaza Friday and Hamas responded with a barrage of rockets on two cities as both sides defied a U.N. call for an immediate cease-fire. (AP Photo/Kevin Frayer)AP - Israeli jets and ground troops hammered at Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip and Islamic militants fired barrages of rockets at southern Israeli cities Friday, ignoring a U.N. resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire after two weeks of combat.



AP - Authorities say five people were shot at a high school on Chicago's South Side.

This image taken from video, supplied by Magnolia Pictures, shows the Rev. Ted Haggard  preaching in the documentary film 'Jesus Camp'. Speaking out two years after being embroiled in a gay sex scandal, former evangelical pastor Ted Haggard said Friday, Jan. 9, 2009 his sexual identity is complex and can't be put into 'stereotypical boxes,' but that his relationship with his wife is stronger than ever. (AP Photo/Magnolia Pictures,File)AP - Speaking out two years after being embroiled in a gay sex scandal, former evangelical pastor Ted Haggard said Friday his sexual identity is complex and can't be put into "stereotypical boxes," but that his relationship with his wife is stronger than ever.



Texas death row inmate Andre Thomas is shown in this undated handout file photo released Friday, Jan. 9, 2009 in Huntsville, Texas. Thomas, who has a history of mental problems is being treated at a prison psychiatric unit after authorities said he pulled out his only good eye and ate it.  He similarly had plucked out his right eye before his trial in 2004. (AP Photo/Texas Department of Criminal Justice, FILE)AP - A Texas death row inmate with a history of mental problems pulled out his only good eye and told authorities he ate it. Andre Thomas, 25, was arrested for the fatal stabbings of his estranged wife, their young son and her 13-month-old daughter in March 2004. Their hearts also had been ripped out. He was convicted and condemned for the infant's death.



This photo released by Bruce Sherman of Rockport, Texas, shows a Pine Flycatcher photographed at the Choke Canyon State Park, Texas, Jan. 4, 2009. (AP Photo/Bruce Sherman)AP - Birders with binoculars and cameras are flocking to a remote state park in search of a small yellow-chested bird that apparently crossed the U.S. border for the first time from its high-mountain habitat to the south.



In this Nov. 28, 2005 file photo, actor Patrick Swayze poses for the photographers, prior to the premiere of his new film 'Keeping Mum' at a Leicester Square cinema in central London. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis, file)AP - Patrick Swayze has checked himself into the hospital for observation after contracting pneumonia, A&E President Abbe Raven announced Friday at a meeting of the Television Critics Association. Swayze was scheduled to appear to discuss his upcoming drama "The Beast."



In this photo released by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, 'George,' a live 20 pound lobster rests on a plate at City Crab and Seafood in New York, Friday, Jan. 9, 2009. City Crab and Seafood has spared the lobster, which is expected to be released Saturday, Jan. 10, near Kennebunkport, Maine, in an area where lobster trapping is forbidden. PETA and the restaurant gauged George's age at about 140, using a rule of thumb based on the creature's weight. (AP Photo/P.E.T.A.)AP - A new lease on life — at 140? That's what a Manhattan lobster got Friday, when the 20-pound crustacean named George was released from a swanky Park Avenue restaurant's tank. City Crab and Seafood agreed to a request from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals to let the lobster return to the Atlantic Ocean.



AP - Baseball authorized nearly 8 percent of its players to use drugs for ADHD last season, which allowed them to take otherwise banned stimulants. A total of 106 exemptions for banned drugs were given to major leaguers claiming attention deficit hyperactivity disorder from the end of the 2007 season until the end of the 2008 season, according to a report released Friday by the sport's independent drug-testing administrator.

Former Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin participates in a panel discussion about Poverty Alleviation at the Clinton Global Initiative, in New York, September 20, 2006. (Chip East/Reuters)Reuters - Citigroup Inc is in advanced talks to sell its Smith Barney brokerage unit to Morgan Stanley, a person familiar with the matter said on Friday, in a move that would further dismantle the financial supermarket that has been bailed out by the U.S. government.



Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich speaks during a news conference in Chicago, Illinois January 9, 2009, as he points to Illinois residents that he clamed have been helped by the issues that are now being used as the Illinois House voted to impeachment him. (Stephen J. Carrera/Reuters)Reuters - The Illinois House of Representatives impeached Gov. Rod Blagojevich on Friday for abuse of power, including a charge that he tried to sell President-elect Barack Obama's former U.S. Senate seat.



Palestinians shout anti-Israel slogans during a protest in the West Bank village of Baqa Ash-Sharqiya, near Tulkarm January 9, 2009. (Mohamad Torokman/Reuters)Reuters - Israel pressed on with a punishing Gaza offensive and Hamas sent more rocket salvoes into southern Israeli towns in a two-week-old war that continued to defy international efforts to stop it.



US President-elect Barack Obama speaks on the economy at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. US economic conditions are Reuters - President-elect Barack Obama and a key Democratic lawmaker revealed plans on Friday to overhaul the government's $700 billion financial rescue fund as a way to aid struggling homeowners and speed the flow of credit.



Reuters - Minnesota health officials issued a product alert for peanut butter on Friday after finding a jar that was contaminated with a strain of salmonella linked to an outbreak across the United States.

Employers slashed payrolls by 524,000 in December, driving the unemployment rate to its highest level in almost 16 years, a government report showed on Friday, suggesting that the year-long recession was deepening. (Graphic/Reuters)Reuters - The unemployment rate surged to the highest in nearly 16 years last month as a deepening year-long recession forced companies to axe more than half a million jobs, government data showed on Friday.



Voters fill their ballots during the U.S. presidential election in West Hollywood, California November 4, 2008. (Mario Anzuoni/Reuters)Reuters - The U.S. Supreme Court said on Friday it would consider a challenge to a central provision of the 44-year-old voting rights law aimed at preventing states and local governments from making it harder for minorities to vote.



A foreclosed home is seen in Stockton, California in this May 13, 2008 file photo. A top bank industry group said on Friday that it opposes an agreement between financial giant Citigroup Inc  (Robert Galbraith/Files/Reuters)Reuters - A top bank industry group said on Friday that it opposes an agreement between Citigroup Inc and Democratic senators that would rewrite U.S. bankruptcy law to help troubled mortgage borrowers avoid foreclosure, saying it could make home loans more expensive.



A relative of Palestinian journalist Ihab al-Wihedi and his wife mourns prior to their funeral in Gaza City. Tanks and warplanes pounded Gaza on Friday after Israel defied a truce order from the UN Security Council as the death toll from the two-week-old conflict against Hamas passed 800.(AFP/Mahmud Hams)AFP - Israel's offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip was set to enter its third week on Saturday, with both sides brushing off a UN appeal to halt devastating attacks that have claimed over 800 lives.



This US Navy photo shows the MV Sirius Star as it is observed at anchor by the US Navy. Somali pirates said Friday they had freed a Saudi-owned supertanker, whose capture nearly two months ago caused panic in international shipping and spurred the world into tougher anti-piracy action.(AFP/NVNS/David B. Hudson)AFP - Somali pirates said Friday they had freed a Saudi-owned supertanker, whose capture nearly two months ago caused panic in international shipping and spurred the world into tougher anti-piracy action.




Feng Shui Tips for Your Kitchen

Feng Shui (say "fung shway") associates the kitchen with both health and... Read More

An Introduction to Hardwood Floors

There's good news about hardwood floors. Because of advanced construction and finish... Read More

How to Brighten Your Decor with Hand Painted Ceramic Tile

At one time, ceramic tile was only for the wealthy. No more.... Read More

Childrens Furniture

Children's bedroom furniture and nursery furniture can help turn a bland and... Read More

Bathroom Vanities and Cabinets Come in Many Different Styles

Modern bathroom vanities and medicine cabinets come in a huge variety of... Read More

The Benefits of Pre-finished Hardwood Floors

Pre-finished floors come with an extended factory finish warranty unlike unfinished floors.... Read More

A Baker?s Rack: Always A Favorite

When it comes to home accessories, baker's racks have long been a... Read More

Lighting Up a Seniors Life - Baby Boomer Alert!

Lighting for seniors requires attention to some specific details. When planning a... Read More

Soothing Symbols as Home Decor?

Did you know that our bodies can automatically react to certain environmental... Read More

An In-Depth Look at Air Filter Manufacturers

Because there are several air filter manufacturers on the market, it is... Read More

All You Need to Know About Murphy Bed Hardware

The Murphy bed, once the best way to fit into a small... Read More

Bean Bag Chairs ? Choosing the Right One

Decorating can be a big challenge in today's world. There are all... Read More

How Do You Choose Art for Your Home?

You have just moved into a new home. Perhaps it's your first... Read More

Dining Chair Slipcovers ? A Great Way to Impress Your Dinner Guests!

Planning a dinner party but worried what your guests will think about... Read More

Trash or Treasure: Assessing Your Possessions

One personal junk is another personal treasure. Never is that more true... Read More

Finding a Cuckoo Clock Repair Service

Weights hanging from the bottom of your cuckoo clock keep it running... Read More

Entryway Benches - Why Theyre a Must Have in Every Home

One of the easiest ways to leave a lasting, warm impression on... Read More

The Demand for Massage Therapy Chairs

Massage therapists are in high demand. Consumers recognize the physical and mental... Read More

Vintage Enamelware Takes Us Back

Enamelware is a trip down memory lane. White jugs with blue trim... Read More

Creative Decorating Ideas Using Old Windows

A Room With A ViewHave you ever wished you had a great... Read More

Decorating Your Kitchen With Accessories

Just like a nice outfit, your kitchen can benefit from accessories! If... Read More

Shabby Chic Bedding Can Add An Elegant Vintage Touch to Your Room!

Shabby Chic bedding is definitely the answer if you are looking for... Read More

10 Tips to Care for Your Antique Glassware

Antique glassware needs a gentle hand. This month we'll give you some... Read More

A Look at Faux Wood Blinds

For those who want the warmth of wood, but are concerned with... Read More

Add Summer To Your Home

Here's a decorating challenge just for fun in this hot humid mid-summer... Read More

Turning Your Childs Room into a Mysterious Jungle

(When designing a child's room, you want to create an atmosphere that... Read More

An Introduction to Massage Chairs

A comfortable recliner is the prime parking spot for many-a-man. Try plopping... Read More

Cookers

If you are buying a free-standing cooker, oven or hob to makeover... Read More

How to Choose a Sofa for a Family with Kids

If you have children in your home, what sort of sofa should... Read More

Warm And Cozy Down Comforters Will Turn Your Bed Into A Luxurious Sanctuary!

Down comforters provide you with a luxurious natural warmth that few other... Read More

Are You Hiring The Wrong Florist?

Many people agree that flowers are one of the most important elements... Read More

Resourceful Redecorating - Budget Friendly Home Decorating

Spring is here and for many of us it's the perfect time... Read More

Decorating Kid?s Rooms On A Small Budget

Now if your children are like mine they want to change the... Read More

A Review of Popular Water Softener Products

With so many types and brands of water softeners to choose from,... Read More

Getting The Most From Your Candles

I love burning candles and have them all around the house. Long... Read More

The History of Cuckoo Clocks

Although the exact date remains a mystery, it is commonly thought that... Read More

Decorating With Art

A Little Savvy with Framed Art Prints and Photographs Can Help Successfully... Read More

Top Tips for Keeping Your Home Tidy

You've got so much tidying to do, so little time. So what's... Read More

Faux Wood Mini Blinds

Though wood blinds and shutters are the most popular window coverings sold... Read More

Measuring Space - How Much Room Do You Really Need?

When planning your home décor, it is vitally important to understand your... Read More

Area Rugs - Accent Your Rooms with Area Rugs

One of the easiest ways to accent and decorate your home is... Read More

Three Ways to Add Charm and Style to Your Kitchen

I like decorating my kitchen with a cozy, warm, inviting, homey feeling... Read More

The Art Of Selecting Your Homes Art

Art should be personal. Selecting pieces that you really love should not... Read More

An Introduction to Shutters

Window shutters can serve many purposes. In areas of the country prone... Read More

Tabriz Persian Rugs

Tabriz are one of the most popular Persian rugs. Tabriz is the... Read More

Creative Ways to Decorate Your Walls

Moving into a new house can sometimes cause a quandry. You can... Read More

The Advantages of Wooden Wine Racks

Wood wine racks provide the best storage system for a large collection,... Read More