Those home shows on TV make it look so easy! And it seems like everybody and his brother are on Instagram showing off their latest home project. It’s all so much fun to watch. The successes! The failures! The fights!
Some people really do have what it takes to pull off an amazing home renovation project without hiring a pro.
And some people do not.
If you are one of those people with some skills and you are trying to decide between doing it yourself and hiring a contractor, here are 10 things to think about before you make that choice.
When to Hire a Pro vs DIY Your Renovation
- Skill Level: Assess your own skills and expertise in the specific tasks that are required to do the renovation – and be brutally honest with yourself. While it can be fun to tackle and complete a simple project, getting bogged down halfway into a more complex one can be a giant headache.
- Time Availability: Consider how much time you can dedicate to the renovation project. DIY projects often take longer than hiring professionals due to learning curves, other commitments, and potentially slower progress. Also, some people on social media downplay the amount of time the project actually takes, making it seem simpler than it is.
- Cost: Compare the cost of DIY versus hiring professionals. While DIY may seem cheaper initially, it’s essential to factor in the cost of materials, tools, potential mistakes, and the value of your time. If you have to access hard-to-find materials that can suck the fun right out of the project. Sometimes, hiring professionals can be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Complexity of the Project: Evaluate the complexity of the renovation project. Simple tasks like painting or installing shelves may be suitable for DIY, while tasks involving structural changes or electrical work are best left to professionals. We can’t tell you the number of projects we have been hired to finish up after the homeowner just plain quit because their initial enthusiasm for the project outpaced their skill.
- Safety Concerns: Consider safety implications. Some renovations, such as electrical or plumbing work, can pose safety risks if not done correctly. The risk of making a mistake that results in damage is higher than in other aspects of home remodeling. Hiring professionals ensures compliance with safety standards and reduces the risk of accidents. Doing your own electrical and plumbing work is no joke. Fire and flood are two things nobody wants to risk dealing with when it comes to their home.
- Permits and Regulations: Check if your renovation project requires permits or compliance with building codes. Professionals are familiar with regulations and can ensure that the renovation meets legal requirements. Nobody wants to get caught and have work stopped because it didn’t occur to them that they might need permits. Also, even though permits cost money, and a lot of people like to complain about them, they really do protect you as a homeowner from shoddy and unsafe results.
- Quality of Workmanship: This one should be obvious. Professional contractors bring expertise and experience to the table, resulting in higher quality workmanship. If you prioritize quality and durability, hiring professionals may be the better option.
- Insurance and Liability: Professionals are typically licensed and are required by law to carry insurance, providing protection against accidents, damages, or faulty workmanship. They may also guarantee their work. DIY projects may not have the same level of coverage, exposing you to potential liabilities.
- Timeline: Consider your desired timeline for completing the renovation. Hiring professionals can expedite the process and ensure timely completion, whereas DIY projects may take longer, especially if you encounter unexpected challenges.
- Resale Value: Think about how the renovation will impact the resale value of your home. Professionally executed renovations often add more value to the property compared to DIY projects, which may lack professional polish.
Final Thoughts on DIY vs Hiring a Pro for Your Renovation
Sometimes you look at social media and begin to feel like you should be able to have the talent and desire to do all these DIY projects around your home. It’s totally ok if you don’t. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether to tackle the renovation yourself or hire a professional contractor.
If you need help planning or managing your renovation project we are happy to help. Let us help you clear out the overwhelm and get your questions answered. Click here to schedule a free consult.
