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By Roger Dolanch

Armed with a library of how-to books and YouTube videos, you’re confident that you can tackle your home’s repairs and remodeling yourself. That way you can pocket the money you would have spent on professional labor. Take a deep breath and consider that many people trying to “Do It Yourself” make critical mistakes that can actually decrease their homes’ ability to be sold, as well as its value.

Avoid these seven common mistakes:

1. Overestimating your skills: Some people are handy, and some just think they’re handy. Be honest about your abilities. Buyers can tell when things aren’t in the proper position, when light sockets aren’t vertical, and when laminate flooring is bowed. It comes down to the perceived quality of the work. For those people that can’t do it right, they end up having to pay later to have it fixed.

2. Underestimating the value of your time: You may, in theory, be capable of laying new bathroom tile. But between your job demands and the kids’ 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 $45K kitchen designed by a pro to mesh well with a house will bring a better return than a $45K kitchen that bungles traffic flow and clashes with the style of adjoining areas. When you’re going down to the studs, its best to get an architect or interior designer involved.

4. Neglecting details: REALTORS® hear complaints from buyers when they show a house where the owners have left various projects unfinished throughout the house. It fails to add value and in some cases may actually subtract value.

5. Overlooking permits: Occasionally a seller will fixed their own septic system. When the home inspection revealed that she didn’t have the proper permits, the deal was ruined. A qualified pro will know what is legally required.

6. Missing guarantees: Professionals 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 your 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 CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty real estate agent is a great resource. They have lists of reliable local vendors. They are able to provide advice about whether your plan for the remodel is too much. You certainly don’t want to find yourself with an “upside down” market value, especially after doing all that work!

To be a dollar-wise DIYer, ask yourself if you are capable and confident of performing good quality work. As a homeowner with the proper skills, you can apply that “sweat equity” to enhance value, but people lacking experience or expertise will find it is most cost-effective to hire professionals in the long run.

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