The following online programs are free and offer a great way to design your home projects before you start:

• Autodesk Homestyler is created by the same company that makes AutoCAD architectural software. This robust, easy-to-use application lets you arrange and design your project by simply dragging and dropping elements such as windows and doors, furniture and appliances.
• Google Sketchup is a sophisticated software application that lets you build 3D models of your home. Online video tutorials will help you get started. Users can upload their creations to a shared database where you can peruse others’ works for inspiration.
• Ikea Planner lets you build a room and furnish it with Ikea products.

For minor upgrades such as new flooring and paint colors, try these online resources.

• With Colorjive you can upload a photo of the room you want and try on new color schemes. Adjust lighting conditions then process your image to obtain the color index numbers for Sherman Williams and Benjamin Moore paints.
• Daltile’s website lets you design your own project, select and arrange coordinating tiles, and tally up the final price of your project.
• Armstrong Flooring displays stock photos demonstrating a number of flooring options from laminates to hardwood.

Thanks and remember . . . Don’t spend a PENNY ‘til you call JENNY!