Dilemma: You want to make some changes to your home but don't have the time or cash to commit to major renovations. Don't fret, there are smaller, less costly projects that can be completed that will add value to your home and a smile to your face.

Have a home office? There are more people these days that work out of their homes. By updating the home office, you can add some value by changing an unused space into a work area. Projects such as painting, refurbishing an older desk, adding shelving or even new windows can breathe new life into an older space or one that hasn't been used previously.

Owner's suites can add a degree of luxury at a low price. Take the main bedroom of your home and pick a color and theme. There are thousands of ideas out there – utilize the Internet or make visits to local home improvements stores for inspiration. Pinterest, which is an online idea warehouse, contains thousands of ideas and leads for channeling creativity.

Landscaping is much more than grass and shrubbery. Weeding, mulching and adding a collection of various plants can make a major difference in the overall feel of the outside of your home. Not sure what you should plant? Take a sample of your soil to a local landscaping or home improvement company and ask them to recommend types of plants that would work. Use a combination of low cost lighting and landscaping materials such as timbers and rock to add depth and variety. Ideas like this can turn a few patches of grass into an outdoor living area and all you really need is a little elbow grease to make it happen.

Does your kitchen need CPR? CPR in the real estate world stands for Can Positively Revive. Not everyone has a cool 10K for a total kitchen makeover. So, make some small changes that can lead to a revival of the kitchen senses.  Outdated wallpaper needs to come down and a neutral paint job will give the kitchen some flexibility. Stainless steel is now a standard for home buyers in most markets so now would be a good time to make some updates. Add some counter space or extra shelving that will help open up the area and allow more elbow grease.

Bottom line, you don't need thousands of dollars to make changes. Using inspiration and creativity together to maximize your home's assets can make quite a difference in the future. Remember, changes to your home are an investment, no matter how big or small.