What you can get at Home Depot for $500 that changes everything

When you’ve got a bigger budget to work with at Home Depot—like $500—you can make changes that completely shift how your house looks and functions. It’s not pocket change, but it’s also not a full renovation budget. That middle ground can go surprisingly far if you spend it on the right things.

Instead of scattering money across small impulse buys, focus on upgrades that have lasting value, solve problems, and instantly improve your everyday spaces.

A New Front Door

Swapping out an old, weathered door for a new steel or fiberglass one instantly changes your home’s curb appeal. Many options fall right under the $500 mark and include energy-efficient features that can even lower utility bills.

It’s one of those upgrades that you see and use daily, making it worth the investment. A fresh, modern door makes your house look cared for and can boost resale value down the road.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

While $500 won’t cover a full-sized refrigerator or stove, it can get you smaller appliances like a dishwasher or over-the-range microwave. These swaps are more than cosmetic—they save water, energy, and frustration in the long run.

Even a mid-range upgrade in this category makes cooking or cleaning easier and more efficient. It’s one of the smartest ways to use that budget if your current appliance is outdated.

Outdoor Power Equipment

If your yard eats up weekend after weekend, putting $500 into tools like a quality mower, trimmer, or leaf blower can change the whole routine. You’ll save time, effort, and even money on hiring help.

Home Depot carries plenty of dependable equipment at this price point. The right tool can mean less strain and a cleaner, easier-to-manage property.

New Flooring in a Room

You won’t cover an entire house with $500, but you can redo a smaller space with laminate or luxury vinyl planks. Bedrooms, laundry rooms, or offices are the perfect size for this project.

The difference is night and day. Old carpet or linoleum dates a space fast, while fresh flooring makes it look new without touching anything else.

A Bathroom Vanity

A new vanity in the $300–$500 range can completely refresh a bathroom. Many come with pre-installed sinks and countertops, making installation easier and cost-effective.

If your bathroom feels outdated, this one upgrade can transform the look without requiring a full remodel. It’s one of the best values you can get at Home Depot for that budget.

Patio Furniture Set

A $500 budget can snag you a full patio set, complete with chairs and a table. Outdoor living spaces are an extension of your home, and this upgrade makes them far more usable.

Instead of piecing together mismatched chairs, you’ll have a cohesive spot for family dinners, morning coffee, or gatherings. It extends your living space without building anything new.

Kitchen Faucet Upgrade

High-quality faucets with pull-down sprayers, touchless features, and sleek finishes often land under $500. A new faucet might sound small, but it transforms how you use your sink.

Better water flow and easier cleaning are daily benefits you’ll notice immediately. Plus, it makes the kitchen look more updated without replacing major appliances or cabinets.

Washer and Dryer Pedestals

If you’re tired of bending over every time you switch loads, pedestals that raise your machines can be a game changer. They often include storage drawers too, helping you stay more organized.

At around $500 for a pair, they improve both comfort and efficiency. It’s a smart way to make your laundry room feel brand new without replacing the machines themselves.

Ceiling Fans with Lights

A quality ceiling fan does more than move air—it lowers cooling bills, updates a room’s look, and improves comfort year-round. Many models with sleek designs and remote controls fall under $500.

Replacing old fans or builder-grade lights with these makes a big difference in how a space feels. It’s a straightforward upgrade with both style and function built in.

Garage Storage System

With $500, you can install heavy-duty shelving, cabinets, or a wall-mounted track system in your garage. This instantly gets clutter off the floor and makes tools, sports gear, or seasonal items easier to find.

An organized garage feels bigger and saves you from buying duplicates of things you can’t locate. It’s one of those practical upgrades that pays off every day.

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