1. Start with a Clean Slate: Truly the first step in revamping an area in your home is to repair and replace anything that needs or calls attention to it. Whether it is that hole left in the wall left from an old nail or a stain in your carpet, this is the time to roll up your sleeves and start checking off the items on your "Honey Do" list. This also includes getting rid of furniture that clutters your space. Consider, as you move things around for replacing and repairing purposes, how you might rearrange the focus of the room by rearranging the furniture.

2. Paint with New Direction: This step appears in all updating lists in the history of interior design. Why? A fresh coat of paint is an inexpensive way to revitalize the walls of your home which, let's face it, comprise the most visible portions of any space. Not sure what color? To have an accent wall or to not have an accent wall? The internet can help you take into account all the factors for choosing the right color (i.e. the size of the room, the color palate of your existing items, etc.). Internet Tip: you can search "images" of remodeled rooms for ideas or even browse paint retailer websites who usually contain their own tips in this important decision.

3. Simpler is Better: If you have busy patterned upholstery, busy patterned drapes, or anything busy for that matter, you need to simplify. Not convinced? Nothing clutters a space more than unnecessary patterns, regardless of the actual clutter piled on the floor and shelves. Quick fixes include slip covers and switching to rugs made from simple solid colors.

4. Accessorize: Now that the area is repaired, painted, and de-cluttered, the fun can now begin. Like accessorizing a good outfit, your home also needs the little details that make all the difference. For example, framed pictures and throw pillows can really spruce up the place, but beware of these tips—discard frames that hold multiple pictures (giving each picture a separate frame draws more attention and importance to the image) and stick with pillows in accent colors, devoid of ruffles. Other accessories include plants, fresh flowers (no dried arrangements, please), and mirrors (a well-placed mirror can optically widen a space).

5. Fix You Fixtures: Even if you can't afford a total revamping of your light, faucet, and handle fixtures, a humble start will get you going in the right direction. Choose one, say the large sphere over the light in your hallway, and upgrade it to something new like a cover made of stain glass.

Now that you've got what you need to really start making a welcome difference in your home, why stop there? Think of what people see as they approach your door and spread the influences your new direction to the doorstep of your home.