8 budget shortcuts that make the house look cheap fast

Trying to save money isn’t the problem—it’s when the fix looks like a placeholder. Some budget choices unintentionally signal “unfinished” or “not staying long,” especially when they don’t blend in or wear well. These are the shortcuts that make a space feel more temporary than lived-in.

Curtains that don’t reach the floor

Short curtains or ones that stop awkwardly above the trim break the visual flow of a room. They often make the ceiling feel lower and the room feel incomplete. Floor-length panels don’t have to be expensive—they just look more intentional.

Exposed cords everywhere

Power strips on the floor, lamp cords running across walkways, or TV wires hanging down the wall all make the space feel thrown together. Cord covers, clips, or even a little rerouting make a big difference.

Vinyl contact paper over everything

Using contact paper to “fix” countertops, cabinets, or furniture tends to look like a cover-up, not an upgrade. It peels easily and often draws attention instead of blending in. If you’re using it, less is more.

Using outdoor lights inside

String lights or solar lanterns can work in small doses, but when they’re the main light source inside, it reads more like a dorm than a home. Swapping in proper lighting—even from a thrift store—adds polish fast.

Skipping trim or baseboards

Bare walls or unfinished trim work make a room feel like it’s still mid-project. Even simple, painted baseboards or quarter-rounds finish the space and help anchor everything. It’s worth doing—even on a tight budget.

Temporary furniture as long-term seating

Folding chairs or camping stools might work in a pinch, but they signal you’re not settled. Swapping them out for secondhand or refinished seating helps the room feel more rooted, even if you’re still working on the rest.

Hanging art with thumbtacks or tape

When art is hung haphazardly, or with sagging tape and crooked corners, it makes the whole space feel like a placeholder. Picture hangers or command strips are cheap and easy—and they go a long way toward making the space feel finished.

Using rugs that are too small

Undersized rugs make furniture feel disconnected and the room look incomplete. It’s better to skip a rug altogether than to use one that barely covers the floor. Larger rugs don’t have to be expensive—especially if you look at used or off-brand options.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.