There is something immensely satisfying about completing do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. But, I would be remiss in not acknowledging the value of hiring a quality remodeling contractor for my home remodeling projects.
Yes, I may spend more of my hard-earned money than I’d like to; but, there is value in conserving my time and energy for things I truly enjoy doing (arts and crafts, anyone?) and for which I have experience (i.e. writing).
There are numerous blogs outlining things to consider when deciding to do a home remodeling project yourself or hire an experienced remodeling contractor. The research, alone, can be daunting.
Here are a few things I would consider:
DIY Home Projects May Lower Your Home’s Value
According to Cleaver (2019), some homeowners tackle remodeling projects for the satisfaction of completing the work themselves and saving money; usually, with the hope of increasing the home’s value in the process.
However:
1) Some remodeling projects don’t build home value.
2) Code compliant doesn’t always translate to quality work.
3) Online videos don’t replace years of hands-on experience and skills.
4) Ignoring air quality and ventilation can create toxic environments INSIDE your home (i.e. mold, wood rot, etc.).
5) New finishes, fixtures, and appliances don’t fix aged heating, cooling, and water systems.
6) Getting lost in the details can overshadow the overall layout and functionality of your home remodeling project.
Review Cost vs. Value 2019 for a closer look at the cost of various home remodeling projects and how much value each project may add to your home.
DIY or Hire a Contractor
According to Daniels Design & Remodeling (2018), you can safely complete some remodeling projects on your own; however, some remodeling projects require a licensed and experienced remodeling contractor to ensure timely and proper completion of your remodeling project(s).
Ask Yourself:
1) Have you done similar remodeling projects in the past?
2) How much time do you have to dedicate to your remodeling project(s)?
3) Is it safe for you to complete your remodeling project on your own?
4) Do you have the tools and/or equipment needed to complete your remodeling project(s)?
5) Do you have a backup plan if something goes wrong?
One more thing to consider: A remodeling contractor’s buying power and experience. A quality-driven and experienced remodeling contractor will have developed relationships with like-minded vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors. Cultivating such relationships allows the remodeling contractor to obtain quality materials at prices that fit your remodeling budget. No need to settle for less when hiring the right remodeling contractor can give you more bang for your buck.
“It is unwise to pay too much; but it is worse to pay too little. When you pay too much, you lose a little money… that is all. When you pay too little, you, sometimes, lose everything because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the thing it was bought to do. The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little and getting a lot… it cannot be done. If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run. And, if you do that, you will have enough to pay for something better.” ~ Author Unknown
Contact Galaxy Builders, Inc. today! We understand the value of quality.
References
Cleaver, J. (2019). Your DIY home renovation project may actually lower its value. 10 things to know before you start the work. Retrieved from https://www.chicagotribune.com/real-estate/ct-re-home-renovation-diy-fixes-0901-20190827-rulijaddo5evbdnoqnllyyzpiu-story.html
Daniels Design & Remodeling. (2018). Home Renovations: To DIY or Not to DIY, That is the Question. Retrieved from https://danielsremodeling.com/home-renovations-to-diy-or-not-to-diy-that-is-the-question/
