If you watch at a specific personalization you can google it always finding some tips (for example change wallpaper/colours) generally you have to manage the registry and permissions.
I know of the options available by third party tools Just install basic as minimum and it will have full functionality.
Home Basic still has a few restrictions with Personalization - it doesn't support Themes and Aero Glass.
More benefits than loses. 2011 versions are still available on third party web sites and are more appropriate for updating.