Realty.com » Resources and Services

Login • Register

Resources and Services

Expert Advice

Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro

Q: Can you tell me how to do a home improvement project myself?

A: ServiceMagic is a professional home improvement referral service and my

primary function is advising property owners about the most appropriate

professionals to consult and/or hire to repair, maintain, improve, or

construct their homes.

If you are intent on doing it yourself, I recommend buying an

instructional

book or perhaps a videotape from a home improvement or online construction

book store. A helpful site to reference is DoItYourself.com. Also, home improvement stores often offer Do-It-Yourself

classes and you can even get information from websites by typing your

subject matter directly into a search engine (I have good luck on

http://www.excite.com).

However, after more than a decade in this business, I firmly

believe that hiring an experienced professional is usually the

best, most timely, efficient (and even economical) way to get

a project done right the first time. Poorly done “improvements”

can actually detract from a property’s value and I couldn’t count

the number of consumers I’ve talked to who could have saved money by hiring a pro in

the first place.

At the very least, let me suggest that you compare what you would spend

on the tools and materials (and time and possible frustration) you’d

need

to do it yourself against a couple of estimates from professionals

before

deciding what to do. To get some bids, please return to our site at:

http://www.servicemagic.com, type a keyword relating to your project into the search

box and submit a service request so we can match you with the ideal

service professionals in your area.

Kathy Maynard

More Popular Entries

Additions & Remodels

Soundproofing Techniques
Small Kitchen Projects Can Make a Big Difference
Easy Financing Options for Remodeling

Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors

Mortgage Prequalification and Preapproval
Renting or Buying: Advantages and Disadvantages
Single Family Homes

Appliances

Installing Appliances
Selecting Major Appliances
Garbage Disposals

Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers

Critiquing a Floor Plan
When to Expect a Free Bid
Residential Designer

Carpentry & Cabinets

Comparing Timber Framing with Construction
Cost and Quality of Kitchen Cabinets
Different Sized Cabinets

Cleaning Services

Tip: How to Clean Your Windows Thoroughly
Making Furniture New Again
Cleaning Asphalt Shingle Roof

Concrete, Brick & Stone

Fireplace Efficiency
Fireplaces
Tuck-pointing

Consumer Guides

Using a Tree Stump Removal Service
Remodeling Increases Value
Planning Small Plumbing Installation

Design Ideas

Let it Shine!
Soundproofing Techniques
Designer Touches with Drywall

Electrical, Telephone & Data

Air Conditioners
Tip: Electrical Safety
Surge Protectors

Expert Advice

Repair Cinderblock Foundation
Maintaining a Residential Air Conditioner
Water Damage

Flooring

Reviving Wood Floors
Custom Looks with Standard Tile
Refinishing Hardwood Flooring

Handyman Services

Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Checklist: Fall Maintenance
Checklist: Biyearly Maintenance

Heating & Cooling

Install the Right Kind of Wood Stove
Tip: How to Maintain Your Wood Stove
Misting Systems and Their Positive Effects on Plants

Home Construction

Getting Design Help for Remodeling or a New Home
Remodeling/Room Addition Project
Water Damage in Bathroom

Landscape, Decks & Fences

Tennis or Game Court Facts
Metal Fencing
Masonry Materials

Moving & Storage

Some Assembly Required
Preparing Your House for Sale
Remodeling Increases Value

Other Services

Customized Hot Tubs
Pool Heaters
Organize Your Garage for Approaching Messy Weather

Painting & Staining

Electrostatic Painting is the Way to Go
The Importance of Paint Removal
Peeling Paint

Plumbing

Tip: Drain Clearing Service
Tip: Repair a Septic System
Frozen Pipes

Quick Tips

Tip: Air Conditioner Maintenance
Tip: Repair Concrete Flatwork
Tip: How to Repair Your Air Cleaner

Roofing, Siding & Gutters

Clean Gutters
Wood Shingle Siding
Helpful Roofing Terms

SP Feature Article

The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services

Walls & Ceilings

“Upgrade Batt, Rolled or Poured Insulation “
Tip: Insulation Basics
Nicotine Stains on Walls and Ceilings

Windows & Doors

Basic Door Lock Information
Installing the Correct Blinds or Shades
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades

copyright 2008 Realty.com