Since the 90s home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Ace Hardware have been making it easier to take matters into our own hands – with practically endless selections of paint, carpet and more, these places also include helpful folks ready and willing to help you develop a plan to DIY (do it yourself). Whether you’re looking at a project or addition that you’ve long dreamed of or are being more impulsive because of that tax return burning a hole in your pocket, here are 10 tips that will help you save on your next dream project:
1. Create Natural Light – Surprisingly, cutting a hole in a particular part of the house and installing a quality window or skylight can be relatively inexpensive, cut down on electricity costs, and create a pleasant crossbreeze.
2. Use ‘how to’ videos on YouTube – Watching them do it makes it easier! You’re already getting inspired by watching HGTV – you can do a small project or install something simply by watching someone else.
3. Do Your Own Demo – Knocking down a wall is easy, and a great stress reliever! Speak to home improvement folks so you don’t take down piping or electricity, stud finders can be a great help. You can shave some dollars off that project while also releasing some stress.
4. Ask for Contractor Resources – General contractors make their living by finding high quality, lower cost sub-contractors. If you have a painting job or other project, you might be able to go right to the subcontractor and negotiate a person-to-person deal. Be sure to confirm they’re bonded and insured.
5. Borrow The Truck – Moving your own materials like stone and wood can cut down on the cost to get the materials to your house. All for the cost of a pizza and some beer you’re likely to share with your friends anyhow.
6. Limit Your Rearranging – Moving items like showers, toilets, or sinks that totally change the plumbing system can be very expensive. Only rearrange items that will not soak up your entire budget.
7. Bid The Job – It will usually be best to get 3 bids to make sure you are getting the best deal for the best quality.
8. Consider Purchasing Remnants – Some lots that sell a fair amount of stone will have remnants or leftovers for sale. If you don’t have a big project, this could be a good way to put a few more bucks back in your pocket. I’ve also found great deals at Sid’s Carpet Barn in National City.
9. Try Refinishing First – You would be surprised that if you get bored with your current rooms, just changing a few small things may make a difference. Change out the cabinet pulls, varnish, or add a new slipcover to the couch. These will all be cheaper than buying new. And you’ll get that “new” smell.
10. Get The Gutters To Work – All of us that own homes know that water is the one damage that drives us crazy. Make sure your gutter system is working correctly because poor drainage or overflow could cause flooding that will cost you money.