Low cost reno ideas for lifting your home’s value in 2025

By Gabriella Margerison · · 2 min read
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The summer holidays are right around the corner, and while the kids might be focused on fun and games, it could also be the perfect time to tackle some budget-friendly home renovations. Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value before selling or just want to refresh your space, there are plenty of smart, cost-effective projects that can make a big impact without breaking the bank.

Start with a fresh coat of paint

Nothing transforms a space quite like a new colour palette. A weekend spent painting can refresh tired walls and breathe new life into your home. Neutral tones like whites, greys, and beiges are a timeless choice that appeals to a wide range of buyers. But if you're into going with the latest trends, according to the Dulux colour trends forecast 2025, rich burgundies and wine hues will become more prominent throughout residential interior design, alongside increased use of green including olive, sage and vibrant yellow-green in 2025^. 

Spruce up your street appeal

First impressions matter, so give your home’s exterior a little love. A tidy lawn, fresh mulch in garden beds, and a power-washed driveway can do wonders. You could even take it up a notch with a new letterbox, modern house numbers, or a freshly painted front door; small touches that make a big difference. 

Lighten things up

Dark, dreary spaces can make a home feel smaller and less inviting. Brighten up your interiors by updating light fixtures or adding LED bulbs for a modern touch. If budget allows, consider installing skylights or larger windows to bring in natural light; a surefire way to increase your home’s appeal.

Refresh your kitchen and bathroom

Renovating kitchens and bathrooms doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. Swapping out old handles for sleek, modern hardware, replacing tapware, or re-grouting tiles are inexpensive ways to give these spaces a fresh look. If your cabinets are in good condition, a coat of paint and some new knobs can work wonders. Perhaps consider a small personal loan to kick things off.

Get creative with outdoor living

Aussies love outdoor entertaining, so a backyard revamp can add serious value. Consider building a deck or creating a cosy alfresco area with affordable furniture, lighting, and some lush greenery. Even a simple fire pit can add character and charm. Check out eBay and Facebook Marketplace for second-hand bargains to get the ball rolling.

Need a little help?

Not all renovations fit within the savings jar, and that’s where a personal loan could come in handy. With flexible repayment terms and competitive rates, a personal loan can offer a flexible way to fund home improvement projects without raiding your rainy-day fund. Compare top personal loans below.

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Last updated 5 December 2025 Important disclosures and comparison rate warning*
What are your home loan needs?
Loan purpose
Buying or Refinancing
  • Promoted

    Unloan Variable Home Loan

    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 20% min deposit
    • Redraw available
    Interest rate
    5.19 % p.a.
    Variable
    Comparison rate
    5.10 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,742
    Go to site
    • The first home loan with an automatic loyalty discount (conditions apply)
    • No application or banking fees
    • Built by CommBank

  • First Home Buyer Loan

    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 5% min deposit
    • For first home buyers
    • Offset available
    • Redraw available
    Interest rate
    4.99 % p.a.
    Variable
    Comparison rate
    5.04 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,681
    Go to site
    • Competitive interest rate – 4.99% p.a. (comparison rate* 5.04% p.a.)
    • Offset account to reduce interest and save on repayments
    • No establishment or monthly fees, plus valuation fees waived up to $1,000 (limited time)

  • Fixed Rate Home Loan

    • Fixed rate
    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 5% min deposit
    Interest rate
    5.09 % p.a.
    Fixed 2 years
    Comparison rate
    5.43 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,712
    Go to site
    • No ongoing annual fees
    • Make up to $25,000 extra repayments during a fixed period, fee free (T&Cs apply)
    • Lock in for up to 5 years.

  • Unloan Variable Home Loan

    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 20% min deposit
    • Redraw available
    Interest rate
    5.19 % p.a.
    Variable
    Comparison rate
    5.10 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,742
    Go to site
    • The first home loan with an automatic loyalty discount (conditions apply)
    • No application or banking fees
    • Built by CommBank

  • Discount Great Rate Home Loan

    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 20% min deposit
    • Redraw available
    • Cashback
    Interest rate
    5.19 % p.a.
    Variable
    Comparison rate
    5.20 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,742
    Go to site
    • Get up to $3,000 cashback when you apply online (T&Cs apply)
    • No paperwork or payslips required (see site for details)
    • Low variable rate

  • Variable Home Loan 90

    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 10% min deposit
    • Offset available
    • Redraw available
    Interest rate
    5.29 % p.a.
    Variable
    Comparison rate
    5.33 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,773
    Go to site
    • No monthly or ongoing fees
    • Option to add an offset for 0.10% p.a.

  • Offset Home Loan

    • Owner occupier
    • Principal & Interest
    • 40% min deposit
    • Offset available
    • Redraw available
    Interest rate
    5.39 % p.a.
    Variable
    Comparison rate
    5.42 % p.a.
    Initial monthly repayment
    $2,805
    Go to site
    • No ongoing monthly loan maintenance fees to pay.
    • Pre-approval valid for 3 months
Showing 6 results from 380 home loans. Use the filters to see more

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^https://www.dulux.com.au/colour/colour-trends/2025-forecast/

* WARNING: The Comparison Rate combines the lender's interest rate, fees and charges into a single rate to show the true cost of a personal loan. The comparison rates displayed are calculated based on a loan of $30,000 for a term of 5 years or a loan of $10,000 for a term of 3 years as indicated, based on monthly principal and interest repayments, on a secured basis for secured loans and an unsecured basis for unsecured loans. This comparison rate applies only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan.

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Personal Loan Awards

Mozo provides general product information. We don't consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs and we aren't recommending any specific product to you. You should make your own decision after reading the PDS or offer documentation, or seeking independent advice.

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