Taking over for the pros may not save you money in the long run.

Armed with a library of how-to books, you’re confident that you can tackle your home’s repairs and remodeling yourself – and pocket the money you’d have
spent on professional labor. Hold up! The associates at CENTURY 21 Adams & Barnes say that many DIYers make critical mistakes that can decrease their
homes salability. Avoid these seven common mistakes:

  1. OVERSTIMATING YOUR SKILL: Some people are handy, and some think they’re handy. Be honest about your abilities. Buyer’s can tell when things
    aren’t in the proper position, when light sockets aren’t vertical, and laminate flooring is bowed. It comes down to quality of work. If you can’t do it right,
    you’ll have to pay to have it fixed.
  2. UNDERSTIMATING THE VALUE OF YOUR TIME: You may, in theory, be capable of laying new bathroom tile. But between your job demands and the kid’
    s soccer games, can you really finish the project in a few weeks, or will it stretch over months? Your time may be worth the cost of a pro.
  3. EQUATING DOLLARS SPENT WITH VALUE: Good design is critical, especially in kitchen and bath remodels. A $60K kitchen designed by a pro to
    mesh well with a house will bring a better return than a $60K kitchen that bungles traffic flow and clashes with the style of adjoining areas. When you’re
    going down to the studs, get an architect or interior designer involved!
  4. NEGLECTING DETAILS: The biggest complaints heard when showing a remodel comes when homeowners have left things half done. It just doesn’t
    fail to add value, it actually subtracts value.
  5. OVERLOOKING PERMITS: There have been sellers who have fixed their own septic system for example. When the home inspection revealed that they
    didn’t have the proper permits, deals have been ruined. A qualified pro will know what is legally required.
  6. MISSING GUARANTEES: Pros will back their work. That can be essential on big projects like roof repairs. When you DIY, you’re the only one
    accountable for missteps.
  7. THINKING DIY MEANS DO IT ALL YOURSELF: Consider hiring professionals to back up you know-how. Tap into the free kitchen and bath design
    services at home improvement stores. Many paint stores have color consultants you can use for a small fee. Or hire a plumber on an hourly basis to
    install new toilets and sinks after you’ve done the demo work – you’ll rest easier knowing the water will flow safely.

Ultimately, the key to success with any project is asking the right questions. Your Real Estate agents is a great resource. We typically have a list of vendors a
mile long. They don’t get on the list unless we trust them.
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Dodge the 7 most common DIY Mistakes