Looking for a new home? With low-interest rates, the housing market in the United States is booming, with many families even moving across state lines to find the best deal. Have you considered changing your homestead? You may be touring houses, oscillating between fixer-uppers with “good bones” and brand spanking new properties. Perhaps you are willing to take on a few projects, will you go it alone, or hire help? We have a list of pros and cons that will help you decide.

Cost

The cost of doing it yourself can depend on what resources you have available. This can mean personal skills, knowledge, and physical ability. The cost will also apply to the financial budget. Are you comfortable going over budget? Do you have a very limited budget? Answering these questions will help you make a choice when choosing to DIY vs. a company. The cost of a project will usually rise 30% when using a company over your own skills.

When paying for a company, you are paying for expertise, manpower, and the promise of a job that is finished. The project will begin and, hopefully, end, when promised. The expertise means that any unknown hiccup in the process can be resolved. 

Manual Labor

DIY projects are made harder because of the manual labor involved. Hours of toiling and sweating can be rewarding for some but a struggle for others. Checking in with your own ability levels will be crucial for making a decision between a company and DIY. Keep in mind that certain jobs require multiple sets of hands, specialized tools, and on-the-fly problem-solving.

Controlled Outcome

What outcome do you want? Are you a perfectionist? Or are you relaxed with a project taking longer, and coming out slightly differently than expected? With any home project, there will be bumps along the way. Projects are pushed back, with unforeseen circumstances. When you demo anything, unfortunate discoveries can be made. Pipe configurations, mold, crumbling walls, etc. Will you have the knowledge, fortitude, and time to switch plans? A determined DIY-er could be able to find the answers via YouTube, but are you willing to trust your ability to replicate. There is one project that should be off-limits to any ametuer fixer, do you know what it is?

ROI

What are you hoping to accomplish with your project? It is important to take into account the ROI, the return on investment. Great return on investments is kitchens, bathrooms, and closets. Some homeowners have grandiose ideas of personal taste, and while these can be a lovely addition to your home in your own opinion, they may detract from the resale value down the line. A company can help you decide if your decision to change will be a positive one on the market. While DIY-ing will only have your personal taste to be the metric.

We hope to help you decide between DIY projects and hiring a professional company. Ultimately only you can make the correct choice! Keep checking back to the Kratos Gas & Power blog for more excellent ideas to spruce up your home and save money!