Buying a home with the intent of renovating usually brings to mind $$$. Renovations can really add up, especially if you do it all at once, so most people buying a starter house go with the brand new, builder grade home. Don't get me wrong, a clean home with that brand new smell is awesome, but you get very little personality and even fewer unique touches. I've said many times in previous posts, that you don't have to wait until your old and gray and have millions of dollars to have a beautiful, unique home. You just have to be smart and creative about how you use your money! Katie Phelon, of Duckworth Designs , is a great friend and a first time homebuyer. She is here with an awesome guest post about affordably renovating a home. Top Tips From This Post: Talk to local design and kitchen showrooms to see when they redo their displays for great deals on practically brand new cabinets, countertops, and fixtures. Use fun patterns to get a unique and mor...