Budget Breakdown: A Couple Turn a Humdrum Home Into a Hygge Haven for $243K

A new second-floor deck was wrapped in 2020, and at $25,000, a sizable chunk of the budget. But the splurge was worth it, as it makes for a serene spot to sit and soak up the river and forest views. "The sound of the river rushing can’t be beat," says Alli.