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Home Improvement: Hire a Pro? Or DIY?

May 4, 2015

Spring cleaning and post-winter maintenance may have you considering some new home improvement projects to spruce up your living space before summer. Should you tackle them yourself, or hire a professional?

Some homeowners will always call in the professionals, regardless of whether it’s for changing a light fixture or remodeling a bathroom. However, some find joy and satisfaction in fixing or upgrading a home without the help of a professional. DIYers often look at home improvement and maintenance as a hobby. Deciding on whether or not you should hire a professional often depends on the cost of the project. 

HomeAdvisor.com recently released their annual True Cost Guide Report, which compares costs and trend data surrounding home projects. According to this survey, when homeowners hire a professional, they spend an average of $3,100 on a home improvement project. The report also found that 64% of millennials will attempt to tackle a DIY project themselves if they believe hiring a professional will be too costly. Many people will decide to handle the project themselves if they can’t get enough information on price.

Cost isn’t the only factor used in determining whether or not you should hire a professional. It’s important to consider your own skills and physical capabilities before trying to tackle a project yourself. If you make a mistake, the cost to complete your project could skyrocket – especially if you have to hire a pro to come in and fix what you’ve done.

Websites like Pinterest and Houzz can make DIY projects look like a breeze. Be aware that home improvement projects may not be as easy as they seem. Start small and gauge whether or not you can invest the time and skill required to complete a larger project. If you can finish the project in one day with tools and resources you already have on hand, you may be able to do it yourself. Think carefully before attempting to take on a project that requires special permits, plumbing, or electrical knowledge.

If you do decide to hire a professional, it’s important that you collect several written estimates. Don’t automatically go with the lowest estimate; ask for the reason behind the price difference or risk “getting what you paid for.” Check qualifications and licenses, and get a list of references for each professional, preferably from similar projects. Find out if your project will require permits or permission from your HOA.

Whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a contractor, it’s important to do your research. For assistance in finding local Hilton Head professionals, contact the experts at Hilton Head Island Real Estate Brokers.