Everywhere you look there are DIY programs on TV and instructional videos on the internet. This inspires many homeowners to tackle their own home improvement projects. While doing your own projects can be quite fulfilling, it also can cause you to spend more money than expected especially if you run into unforeseen problems.
A new survey from Zillow Digs shows in the past three years, three quarters of homeowners completed a diy project and 40% of them regretted it. Minor projects such as painting a room, replacing cabinet hardware and light fixtures showed less regret.
Many people take on diy projects to save money, however, larger projects like building decks or room additions caused homeowners to go over budget. These kinds of projects are best done with a professional.
The tables below shows the results of the survey:
Top 10 most regretted home improvement projects:
Home Improvement Project |
% of Homeowners with DIY Regrets |
% of Homeowners Who Went Over Budget When DIYing |
% of Homeowners Who Went Over Budget With a Professional |
Add a room or expand/alter an existing one |
53% |
42% |
32% |
Reface or refinish cabinetry (kitchen or bath) |
49% |
20% |
18% |
Refinish basement or attic |
48% |
23% |
23% |
Replace or reinstall new carpeting (any room) |
43% |
23% |
13% |
Refinish or reinstall new hardwood floors (any room) |
42% |
22% |
14% |
Reinstall new cabinets (kitchen or bath) |
41% |
15% |
22% |
Retile a floor or shower |
37% |
13% |
19% |
Add or replace backsplash (kitchen or bath) |
37% |
16% |
7% |
Build or install a deck |
35% |
22% |
23% |
Reinstall new countertops (kitchen or bath) |
33% |
12% |
18% |
Top 5 least regretted home improvement projects:
Home Improvement Project |
% of Homeowners with DIY Regrets |
% of Homeowners Who Went Over Budget When DIYing |
% of Homeowners Who Went Over Budget With a Professional |
Replace lighting fixtures (any room) |
15% |
7% |
8% |
Replace cabinet hardware (kitchen or bath) |
18% |
7% |
13% |
Paint one or more rooms |
18% |
5% |
13% |
Install new kitchen appliances |
19% |
13% |
14% |
Replace plumbing fixture(s) (bath, sink or toilet) |
23% |
8% |
13% |
When considering a diy project you should think about your budget and your skill set. If you have the skills to take on bigger projects then go for it! Educating yourself on the the project itself, and taking the time to review your budget will save you money and big headaches.. Make sure that you have access to the supplies you need and know the cost!
If you know that you want a certain project done, but are lacking the skills, find a professional to do the job. Brainstorm with the contractor and set budget limits.
Proper planning and communication will prevent you from running into costly surprises.
For more information on homebuying/selling contact Sheri Jones at 909-660-1838 Sherijones2012@gmail.com #DIYRegrets #RealEstate #HomesBySheri
Comments(2)