Home Improvement - When to DIY and When to Go Pro

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If you’re planning on doing some home improvements, it may be tempting to take on the work yourself rather than hiring an expert. Sometimes that’s the way to go, but before you decide, be sure to consider the costs, safety, and value the improvements will add to your house. If you may sell your house in the near future, everything from major remodels to simple updates can make your home more appealing to buyers and make a big difference in resale value.
 
Major remodels
Two of the most common major remodeling projects homeowners undertake are updating kitchens and bathrooms. For a project of this scale, you may need expert help, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t do part or all of the project yourself. Ask yourself these questions to determine when and who you may need to hire.

• How big is the project? A kitchen or bath remodel will involve design, electrical, and plumbing work, along with counter and cabinet installations. Start with design and layout - if you’re going with a basic design and not changing the layout of the room dramatically, the project may be manageable to complete yourself. If you’ll be relocating electrical and plumbing fixtures, the project will require higher skilled work. A more complex layout may also require the work of a professional designer. Keeping your current layout not only saves extra work and expense, but according to The Washington Post, a simple design also appeals to a wider array of potential buyers. Even with a simple design, when it comes to counters, plumbing, and other aspects of your remodel, use this guide from The Huffington Post to assess the scale of your project and what you would be safe tackling yourself.
• What is your timeframe? Regardless of your skill level, doing a major home renovation yourself will likely take longer than hiring a professional. When doing a project yourself, there will also be a learning curve, so take that into consideration with your time, along with your patience for working through mistakes. If you are planning to sell your home soon, consider whether you will be able to complete a DIY project before you’re hoping to list your home.
• Does the project require permits? If you’ll be doing electrical or structural work, your local municipality may require work permits. A professional may be needed for any work that requires permits because these are jobs that need specialized knowledge and could pose a safety hazard.

 
Small updates that make a big impact
Basic care and maintenance to your home are just as important to improving its resale value as bigger remodels. Small home repairs are inexpensive so they pack a big bang for your buck. Consider these improvements for major curb appeal:

• Check for any outdoor maintenance that needs to be done. For example, cleaning gutters and downspouts is a simple project, but if left undone, debris buildup can cause major damage. The average price to clean gutters and downspouts is $105-$169 and the project timeline is about 3 hours.
• Replace your front door. According to Business Insider, your front door not only increases curb appeal but is also part of a buyer’s first impression of your home, so it makes a big impact on how they feel about the house, for better or worse.
• Spruce up landscaping. You don’t need to do a major landscaping overhaul to make a difference. Simply planting some trees and easy, low-maintenance plants makes a house feel more like a home without breaking the bank.

 
If you may be selling your home soon, or simply want to make the most of your investment, think carefully about which projects you want to take on. And with both smaller and bigger projects, consider your time and expertise, and the overall value of the results, in deciding when to do it yourself and when to hire a professional.
 
This guest post is by Eugene Williams, creator of the website DIYDad.info. Eugene has spent many years completing countless DIY projects and loves to share his knowledge. Please visit his website for more information. 

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