As a homeowner, you’ll be met time and time again with potential customization and upgrades, but the questions will always remain: what’s worth doing yourself and what should be left to the professionals? Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time homeowner, the urge to roll up your sleeves and tackle projects yourself is understandable. However, not all home improvement tasks are created equal. Let's explore which projects to take on yourself and which ones to delegate together and empower you to make informed decisions about your home.

Embracing the do-it-yourself ethos can be incredibly rewarding. Not only does it save you money, but it also allows you to infuse your personal touch into every corner of your home. However, before you dive headfirst into DIY projects, assess your skills, resources, and the complexity of the task at hand.

Projects You Can DIY:

1. Painting:

One of the simplest and most gratifying DIY projects is giving your walls a fresh coat of paint. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you can transform any room in your home. Plus, the cost of paint and supplies is relatively low compared to hiring professional painters. Just remember to properly prepare the surfaces and invest in high-quality brushes and rollers for a professional finish. Checkout my How to Paint a Room for a Beginner blog post.

Cost: A gallon of paint typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the brand and quality. Additional supplies such as brushes, rollers, and painter's tape may add another $50 to $100 to your total expenses.
Level of Difficulty: 2/10

2. Landscaping:

Enhancing your home's curb appeal doesn't have to break the bank. Simple landscaping projects like planting flowers, trimming bushes, and mulching flower beds can be accomplished with minimal expertise and equipment and is actually one of my favorite spaces to tackle on my own. Plus, spending time outdoors and nurturing your green thumb can be such a fun experience.

Cost: The cost of landscaping materials varies widely depending on the size of your yard and the types of plants you choose. On average, expect to spend between $500 and $1500 for a basic landscaping makeover.
Level of Difficulty: 3/10

3. Minor Repairs:

From fixing leaky faucets to replacing doorknobs, many minor repairs around the house can be tackled on your own, with basic tools and a little know-how.

Cost: The cost of materials for minor repairs is typically low, ranging from a few dollars for replacement parts to $50-$100 for more substantial fixes.
Level of Difficulty: Varies from project to project

4. Decorating:

Expressing your personal style through decor is one of the most fun aspects of homeownership, if you ask me. Whether you're hanging artwork, arranging furniture, or styling shelves, decorating is a DIY-friendly endeavor that allows you to showcase your creativity and make your space feel truly yours.

Cost: The cost of decorating varies depending on your taste and budget. Thrift stores, flea markets, and online marketplaces offer budget-friendly options for decor pieces, allowing you to achieve a stylish look without breaking the bank.
Level of Difficulty: 1/10

5. Furniture Flips:

Breathing new life into old furniture through upcycling and refinishing is not only environmentally friendly but also a fun and rewarding DIY project. Whether you're giving a worn-out dresser a fresh coat of paint or reupholstering a vintage chair, furniture flips allow you to customize your space while saving money and reducing waste. Checkout my blog post on Furniture Flipping for Beginners.

Cost: The cost of furniture flips varies depending on the condition of the piece and the materials needed for refinishing. By sourcing secondhand furniture and repurposing materials, you can keep costs low and create one-of-a-kind pieces for your home.
Level of Difficulty: 4/10

6. Deep Cleaning:

Maintaining a clean and organized home is essential for your health and well-being. While regular tidying up can be done on a daily basis, deep cleaning tasks such as scrubbing grout, cleaning windows, and shampooing carpets may require more time and effort but can be accomplished with DIY methods and household cleaners.

Cost: The cost of deep cleaning varies depending on the size of your home and the extent of the cleaning required. Investing in high-quality cleaning supplies and equipment can help you achieve professional results without breaking the bank.
Level of Difficulty: 1/10

7. Hardware Replacements/Upgrades:

Updating outdated hardware such as door handles, cabinet knobs, and light fixtures is a simple yet impactful way to refresh your home's appearance. With a few basic tools and some patience, you can easily swap out old hardware for new, modern options that better suit your aesthetic preferences.

Cost: The cost of hardware replacements/upgrades varies depending on the number of items being replaced and the quality of the new hardware. Budget-friendly options can be found at home improvement stores, while higher-end options may require a larger investment.
Level of Difficulty: 3/10

As you embark on your DIY journey, remember that every project you tackle is an opportunity to learn, grow, and express yourself creatively. Whether you're painting walls, upcycling furniture, or deep cleaning your space, approach each task with a willingness to experiment. And don't hesitate to seek inspiration and advice.

When to Call in the Professionals:

While the DIY approach is admirable, there are certain projects that are better suited for professional expertise. Attempting complex tasks without the necessary skills or knowledge can result in costly mistakes and safety hazards. Here are a few examples of projects best left to the pros:

1. Electrical Work:

Working with electricity is inherently dangerous and should only be done by licensed electricians. Whether you're installing new oulets, upgrading your electrical panel, or troubleshooting wiring issues, the risk of fire or electrocution is not something to take lightly.

Cost: The cost of hiring an electrician varies depending on the scope of the project and your location. On average, expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour for labor, plus materials.
ROI: While hiring a professional electrician may seem expensive upfront, it ensures the safety and integrity of your home's electrical system, protecting your investment in the long run.

2. Plumbing Projects:

Similar to electrical work, plumbing tasks require specialized knowledge and skills to be done correctly. Whether it's fixing a major leak, installing a new water heater, or remodeling your bathroom, it's best to leave these projects to experienced plumbers.

Cost: The cost of plumbing services varies depending on the complexity of the job and local labor rates. Expect to pay between $100 and $200 per hour for professional plumbing services, plus the cost of materials.
ROI: Hiring a professional plumber can save you time, money, and headaches by ensuring that plumbing projects are done correctly the first time, minimizing the risk of leaks and water damage.

3. Structural Repairs:

Issues related to the structural integrity of your home, such as foundation cracks or termite damage, require the expertise of professionals. Attempting to repair these problems yourself without the proper training and equipment can lead to further damage and compromise the safety of your home.

Cost: The cost of structural repairs varies widely depending on the extent of the damage and the necessary remediation measures. It's essential to obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors before proceeding with any major repairs.
ROI: Investing in professional structural repairs not only ensures the safety and stability of your home but also preserves its resale value and prevents costly structural issues from escalating.

4. Roof Repairs/Replacement:

Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, making it crucial to maintain its integrity and functionality. Whether you're dealing with a leaky roof, damaged shingles, or age-related wear and tear, roof repairs and replacements are best left to licensed roofing contractors who have the knowledge, experience, and safety equipment to handle the job safely and effectively.

Cost: The cost of roof repairs or replacement varies depending on factors such as the size and pitch of your roof, the materials used, and the extent of the damage.
ROI: A well-maintained roof not only protects your home from water damage and structural issues but also enhances its curb appeal and resale value. Investing in professional roof repairs or replacement can pay off in the form of reduced maintenance costs and increased property value.

5. Structural Changes/Additions:

Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, adding a new room, or expanding your living space, structural changes and additions to your home require careful planning, engineering, and construction expertise. From obtaining permits and adhering to building codes to ensuring proper load-bearing support and structural integrity, these projects demand the skill and experience of licensed contractors and architects.

Cost: The cost of structural changes and additions varies depending on factors such as the scope of the project, materials used, and labor involved. While these projects may entail a significant upfront investment, they can add value to your home and improve its functionality and livability.
ROI: Well-executed structural changes and additions can enhance the appeal and functionality of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its resale value. By entrusting these projects to professionals, you can ensure that they are done correctly and in compliance with local regulations, minimizing the risk of future issues.

Deciding whether to DIY or hire out for home improvement projects requires careful consideration. While DIY projects can be empowering and cost-effective, certain tasks are best left to the professionals to ensure safety, quality, and long-term value.

By embracing a balanced approach and knowing when to enlist professional help, you can unlock your home's full potential and create a space that reflects your unique style and personality. So, whether you're picking up a paintbrush or scheduling a consultation with a contractor, remember that every improvement you make brings you one step closer to your dream home.

What to DIY vs. When to Hire a Pro in your Home