Homeowners: Have You Regretted a DIY Project?

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Done correctly, do-it-yourself projects can improve the functionality and aesthetic of a home—even add value, in some cases. Unfortunately, according to a recent Zillow Digs® survey, nearly 40 percent of homeowners who have completed a DIY project wish they hadn’t.

"With seemingly endless DIY tips and how-to videos available today, home improvement projects appear easier and more accessible than ever before," says Kerrie Kelly, home design expert for Zillow Digs. "While some DIY projects can save you money, involving a professional for larger-scale projects, especially those that require specialized skills, can help eliminate headaches and costly mistakes."

The biggest regret? Attempting to add or expand a room in the home, such as a bedroom or bathroom, according to survey findings. Other DIY regrets cited in the survey include:

• Re-facing or refinishing kitchen or bathroom cabinetry
• Refinishing a basement or attic
• Replacing or reinstalling new carpeting
• Refinishing, or installing new, hardwood floors
• Installing new kitchen or bathroom cabinetry
• Retiling a floor or shower
• Adding or replacing a kitchen or bathroom backsplash
• Building or installing a deck
• Installing new kitchen or bathroom countertops

But DIYers shouldn’t throw in the towel altogether. The survey also ranked the least regretted projects, including:

• Replacing lighting fixtures
• Replacing kitchen or bathroom cabinet hardware
• Painting one or more rooms
• Installing new kitchen appliances
• Replacing plumbing fixtures for a bath, sink or toilet

Source: Zillow Digs®

Published with permission from RISMedia.

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