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The biggest mistake you
can make is to get so excited you start demolishing your house
without properly planning ahead, and knowing whether or not you have
the ability to handle the project properly. Even if you're skilled
enough to pull it off, many people begin work only to leave the
project unfinished once the excitement wears off. It's not uncommon
for do-it-yourselfers to live with half-finished rooms for months on
end, putting stress on the whole family.
And remember: remodeling is actually more difficult and time
consuming than starting from scratch, simply because there are so
many unknowns involved in the entire process. The potential exists
for many things to go wrong, especially if you own an older home
with plaster walls.
If you're unsure about the decision, especially for a large project,
a good idea is to try smaller repairs first. If everything goes
smoothly with your 'test' projects, it's a good indication that
you're ready to take on something bigger.
Of course, many people decide to tackle a home improvement project
to save money. Professional rates can be quite high, so if you have
the right skills to accomplish your D-I-Y goals, you can save a lot
of money in the long run. If, however, you realize that a pro will
get the task done faster than you (and achieve a better result)
forking over a little more cash may save you trouble and make the
endeavor easier overall.
A great compromise is to take advantage of both worlds. Hire a
contractor for the really difficult grunt work that requires special
expertise, and then finish the job yourself. For instance, many
homeowners have no problem painting or installing floors, so it
makes sense to leave this type of work for yourself.
In the end, the final decision rests in your hands, and depends on
your personal circumstances and financial position. Do what's best
for you and you'll be happy with the results. |
