With the real estate market booming in the United States, people becoming homeowners in record numbers, and others putting their homes on sale, many people are taking the plunge into DIY home repair. If you and your family just bought a new home, are considering a retro renovation, or are just in the mood for a change, here are some things to consider when taking on a DIY home repair on your own.
Using the Internet for Inspiration and Guidance
One of the most fun parts of any DIY project is the planning process. In taking time to look at online vlogs, blogs, and social media websites, you’ll likely get ideas, tips, and tricks for your project. When looking at sites like Renovators Blog for inspiration and tips, it’s a good idea to grab a notebook and begin with a list of your project’s “must-haves.” Try folding a sheet of paper into two sections with the words “must” and “maybe” at the top of the page. Remember to write down the places you found your design and project ideas so you can refer back to them later. Consider bookmarking them on your browser, too. These online resources could later serve as helpful tools once your project is underway.
Outsourcing where Needed
While it can be tempting to jump right into a new home improvement project, it might be a better idea to step back and assess your overall plan before rushing off to the home hardware store. The reality is that most homeowners will have parts of their home repair project that they can’t do themselves. Getting those parts of the project out of the way first, or at least having that work on a schedule is a good way to maintain a budget and time schedule.
Perhaps you’re planning a kitchen repair and renovation but have a broken dishwasher. It’s a great idea to contact an appliance repair online service before doing any type of demolition on your kitchen. A repair person will be able to help you decide whether you’ll need to repair your appliance or if you’ll need to buy a new one. Something this simple could make the difference in remodel measurements. By taking care of appliances and other repairs before starting the rest of your project, you’ll be able to make better decisions later on.
Setting a Budget and Goals
Before heading out for supplies or making any big changes, you’ll also want to check your budget. Make a supply list and begin to make decisions on what you can afford and might want to hold off on. For example, if a project must-have means paints with textures but you’re close to the top of your budget, opting to hold off on the walls until you’re closer to the end of your project could be a good idea.
Making a goal for your project should include a timeline, too. The renovation process can be stressful, and most projects mean obstacles along the way. It’s a good idea to build in extra time, order supplies ahead of time, and start important projects right away. If you’ll be doing your project so you can sell your home, be sure to run your plans and schedule by your realtor. Staying on the same page as your listing agent will ensure the sale of your home goes smoother.
In the end, our homes are our biggest investments and safe-havens. Before taking on your next DIY home repair project, take a step back to come up with a budget and a plan. Consider taking time to research the latest trends and styles out there, too. You’ll be glad you spent this extra time making your home repair one that feels just right to you. Happy renovating! Don’t forget to take those before and after pictures.
