DIY projects can be a great way to improve your home and save money, but it’s important to remember that not all renovations are created equal.
While things like painting or putting up a backsplash can be fun and manageable, bigger tasks like electrical, plumbing, or structural work should be left to the pros.
Poorly done DIYs can lead to issues like uneven floors, sloppy tiles, or even serious safety hazards like bad wiring. These not only turn off potential buyers but can end up costing you in the long run with repairs. Plus, skipping the proper permits for certain jobs can result in code violations, which can come back to haunt you. For instance, if faulty wiring or plumbing causes a fire or flood, your insurance might not cover the damage if the work wasn’t done by a professional or if the right permits weren’t pulled.
Savvy buyers and home inspectors will spot subpar work quickly, and this can lead to price negotiations or even demands for professional repairs before the deal goes through. The last thing you want is to lose a buyer or face hefty repair bills because a DIY job didn’t hold up.
At the end of the day, it’s worth protecting your investment by hiring a contractor for those big renovation jobs or anything you’re not totally confident handling yourself. While it might seem like you're saving money up front by doing it yourself, bringing in a pro can prevent bigger headaches—and expenses—down the line!
Considering tackling some renos and not sure if you should hire a pro? Reach out for advice!
Claire has a keen interest in investment properties and looks forward to continuing to help her clients build their real estate investment portfolios.