Should I Do It Myself Or Hire A Contractor?

Home sellers with their property for sale on the open market would most likely have it improved and repaired to increase its value and potential of getting sold for a great price. Most people also tend to hire contractors to do even the simple home repairs because of the fear of making things worse. Also, some people are too busy with their schedules to bother with home repairs. This is when hiring contractors seem like the only logical thing to do. But should you decide to get a contractor, it would be helpful to know some important things first before hiring one.

Contracting companies make a lot of money because most people just don't want to deal with home repairs. They are afraid that they might try to handle the repairs themselves and end up making a mistake that will cost them extra in addition to hiring a contractor to complete the project. What people sometimes don't realize though, is that just because a contractor is hired, doesn't mean every thing's going to turn out perfect. Often times, hiring a contractor can be just as expensive as doing it yourself and making a mistake along the way.

Editor’s Note:

This section of the web site was designed to help those that are new to home repair and those that are seasoned veterans to gain access to the information they need when they need it. To the right, you will find links to other helpful articles dedicated to making your home repair and remodeling experience a little easier. Feel free to peruse the articles in the list and when you want more, fill out the “Join Our Toolbox” form above to stay apprised with new articles and newsletters.

Know What You Want  

Before you decide whether to hire a contractor or repair the house yourself, you must decide exactly what you need done. This helps you in planning your DIY operation, and also helps you to better communicate with a contractor if you go that route. Sometimes shady companies will agree for a low price and then convince you that additional repairs are needed, thus raising the price from the original agreement. The best way to defend yourself is to know what you want; thoroughly inspect your house and figure out what repairs you need. It might even be a good idea to map out a plan, as if you were going to do the home repair yourself, just so you can approach the contractor with confidence and knowledge. Figure out the cost of material, of tools, labor and the exact schedule of what will take place. Compare your research to the companies' estimates and make sure you're in agreement.

Don't Overestimate Your Abilities

Just because you're capable of planning out a detailed plan and have some knowledge of home repairs doesn't necessarily mean you're capable of taking on a major assignment. A great deal of technical knowledge and work experience is required to do a job right. Can you guarantee yourself and your family that you are qualified to take on major home repairs such as electrical and plumbing work? While you might be able to eventually pull off a finished assignment, can you do it quickly, economically and with no amateur mistakes? (Mistakes that could easily cost a thousand dollars each?) Finally, consider whether you have time to finish the operation. Will a home repair job take you away from work, from family or from other important things?

Get It In Writing

If you're self-repairing your home, then get all of your plans and cost estimates in writing. Calculate the figures and make sure you are actually saving money rather than just thinking you're going to save money. If you hire a professional, communicate clearly with contracting companies and get all of the agreements in writing before they start to work. Get cost estimates and the agreed upon activities in writing. Being in perfect communication is very important; problems between contracting companies and residents always begin and end with communication problems and nothing actually being documented. One way or the other, guard your home and your finances!