After months of never-ending work, noise, body aches and frustration, here we are finally done with the flat renovation. It’s great to see the outcome of combined ideas and tips not just from the designer but also from our family and friends.

In the process, the renovation has thought me something. It is about the effort, time and how we incorporate ideas into reality when we only have limited resources or limited budget. I’ve learned that it is alright to seek for help. We shouldn’t be afraid to ask and admit to others that we can’t do everything on our own.

Anyway, this post is not just to show you the final product of the upgrade but also to give tips on how to upgrade a flat and make it presentable on a limited budget. So here you go:

1: Declutter! – Decluttering will not only make your place neat and tidy but also easier for you to picture how you actually want the flat to look like.

2. Find for inspiration on the internet No designer? Don’t fret! Just type a keyword or two and see what the Internet has for you. Well, you don’t have to copy every single detail that you see in the pictures but let this give you an idea on what you really want to do with the flat.

3. Talk to your broker and ask for advice: If you are going to sell your crib, it is wise to ask the broker for tips and advice about what is the best for your flat. Here in Norway, brokers are good in giving tips on how and what to upgrade and calculate the cost of the renovation.

4. Borrow stuff– You don’t need to buy new sets of furniture or room decorations for the photoshoot. Ask friends if you can borrow their couch, plants and etc.

5. Less is more. – One thing that I’ve learned from Scandinavian homes is simplicity. You don’t have to use all your decors all at once. Remember, you want to emphasize the flat/property and not the decorations in it!

6. Remove all personal belongings. – I’m refering to your toothbrush, laundry and your family/couple picture on the wall.

7. Color coordination. – Colors should compliment each other.

8.Clean! – Who wants to buy a dirty place? Remember, first impression, last.

9. Use plants. – Plants can make the place look fresh and it can also take away the focus from the things that you don’t want the potential buyers to see.

10. Be sure to let natural light in. –Light is essential for bringing out the best in the room.