Once you have decided it is time to update your bathroom, the next big step is figuring out how much to spend. Everybody wants luxury upgrades without the luxury price tag — but the cost of bathroom renovations can add up quickly if you’re not careful. That said, what is possible with the money you can spend?

A fresh coat of paint, updating cabinet hardware, and refinishing the tub or shower are a few examples of how to maximize spending. Below, to help you determine your plan and budget for renovating — without breaking the bank — here’s a look at some of the best, cost-effective bathroom upgrades.

1. Paint the walls. One of the most impactful ways to change the look of a room is with paint. If your budget is tight, but your heart is set on a new vibe for the space, imagine the room with a different wall color. Because the bathroom can be a high-humidity area, choose a premium paint with a satin finish. Consider covering the ceiling with a special coat of paint that is resistant to mold and mildew, as well. If you have a wooden vanity, painting it another color could also give it a fresh look.
2. Replace lighting. Another little change that goes a long way is updating the bathroom’s light fixtures. In addition to the obvious benefit of brightening the room, replacing the fixtures can help modernize the space.
3. Refinish the tub. In a tub or shower where you can see yellowed surfaces, cracks, nicks, or other signs of wear and tear, you may be tempted to replace it. The more affordable option, however, is to refinish. If the damage is fairly small, you may even be able to get away with mere spot-fixes, rather than a full refinishing job.
4. Use less tile. While re-tiling part of the bathroom can be a great way to give it an updated look, tile tends to get expensive fast. Rather than adding tile to all the walls and floors, look for ways to reduce the amount of tile used. You might tile a wall halfway or just with one horizontal strip. You could also find a cheaper tile alternative to mix with the more costly one you love.
5. Replace cabinet hardware. There are so many great hardware options today, you can easily rejuvenate your vanity and any other bathroom cabinets by exchanging these with different fixtures. Choose a look that is more modern, whimsical or whatever aesthetic you desire, and make the change.
6. Find less-expensive bathroom materials. The more you save on materials, the more you can afford to do in the bathroom space. When exploring the possibilities for renovation, always compare the costs of lower-priced materials. How much would you save by using vinyl flooring instead of hardwood, for instance? Could you choose a more affordable laminate countertop instead of real stone and still like the look? Today’s marketplace has so many options, you may be surprised at ways you can save.
7. Recoup some of your investment with green upgrades. As long as you are looking for big-impact upgrades, why not start with the ones that help your space become more sustainable? Investing in a low-flow toilet, for example, will help conserve water day to day, lowering your water bill. Choosing a water-saving shower head or sink faucet will do the same.

When it comes to the bathroom, the good news is, there are lots of minor changes that can produce dramatic effects. The seven ideas above are great examples of how strategically chosen updates can give you a fresh feel without requiring that you overhaul the whole room — and your budget. To plan your remodel, start by assessing your finances. Then, pick a few projects that seem doable for your needs. In many cases, the updated look you want is achievable without spending a bundle.

Author bio: Erica Garland is Content Marketing Manager at Modern Bathroom and has 15-plus years of experience in the bathroom renovation industry. Modern Bathroom sells a variety of products you would need for any bathroom renovation project. With such a large selection of vanities, faucets, sinks, toilets and showers, Modern Bathroom is sure to have the perfect piece to give your bathroom an updated look.