Adding high-end appliances to a modest home. Unless you live in an area where every home on the block has high-end appliances and a granite countertop, don't add them to yours! You will spend a lot of money and see none of it in return. If you need new appliances or countertops, consider refinishing either or buying nice but less costly versions.
(1) Walk-in tubs are a necessity, not a luxury. If you are in the home you hope to stay in, a walk-in sink resurfacing (or a slide-in or transition tub) is, without question, the single most important "first step" to being able to achieve independent living.
One of the greatest things about bath resurfacing is that there is far less inconvenience and disruption than a full replacement. Instead of 2-3 weeks, reglazing tub refinishing can usually be fully completed in no more than 2-3 days. Even better, using what you already have is much more environmentally friendly. Your bathtub's life is extended by another 10-15 years without ending up in a landfill.
A favorite treatment I love in any work/clean environment is tile. I chose to backsplash the kitchen area behind the stove and the area behind the sink and toilet with small, glass tile, inset with custom-made fused glass artwork which I do myself. I also paint murals and will incorporate an animal motif in a special area to add dimension and whimsy to the space.
Newly exposed hardwood floors may contain carpet tacks and protruding nails. Wearing thick-soled work boots and good work gloves will help bath tub restoration avoid any injuries.
Bathtub Liner. A fast and simple step of modernizing a bathroom without much time, effort and money. It is basically a drop-in coat for the existing bathtub.
Draw a map of your home's water system. This may come in handy in case of a plumbing emergency as it will guide you to all source points of water hence you will be able to them off to avoid any damage to property. Each member of your household should be aware of this map and know what to do in such an emergency.