Remodeling: Do It Yourself or Go Pro?

NORFOLK, VA, Dec 19, 2013—With all of the DIY television shows on the air these days, many of us are easily inspired to tackle home improvement projects ourselves. While taking on a task solo can sometimes be cost effective, if the project is too large, or your skills fall short, you can end up costing yourself more in the long run--financially, and in terms of time and stress.
Louis Eisenberg, Associate Broker REALTOR ABR SFR of Prudential Towne Realty offers us a few words of wisdom that may help you decide if you want to hire outside help when remodeling.
“There are a lot of factors to consider when making this decision,” says Eisenberg. “A lot will depend on your time, level of expertise or willingness to handle the job, amount of help from friends or relatives, and how much you want, or need, to save by doing the job yourself.” If you rely on your own elbow grease, you could save up to 20 percent of the project cost. However, if you have a critical blunder, you will have to pay someone to redo your mistakes.
There are several do-it-yourself books that offer guidance, and some home improvement stores, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, offer classes that can be helpful getting you on the right track.
Be aware, however, that you may end up spending more time, and up to double your estimated budget, if problems arise.
Also, notes Eisenberg, you may have difficulty selling your home if the workmanship looks shoddy.
“Unless you are very experienced, home improvement experts suggest that you stick to painting, minor landscaping, building interior shelving, and other minor improvements,” suggests Eisenberg.
Remember, too, that you may need to deal with local agencies to get permits, inspections, variances, and certificates of occupancy.

For more remodeling information, please contact Louis Eisenberg Realtor, Prudential Towne Realty109 E. Main Street, Norfolk, VA 23510, leisenberg@prudentialtownerealty.com, 757-572-7244, or www.LouisEisenberg.com