When it comes to home improvements, many of us have champagne taste on a beer budget. We visualize the perfect plan for a project, have professionals quote on it, and when the total comes in at twice what we can afford, we become do-it-yourselfers. We know that by eliminating the labor expense, we can often chop a project's cost in half.

But should you do the work yourself? The answer depends on a number of factors, including your abilities, your collection of tools and safety gear, your time, and your desire to roll up your sleeves and keep them rolled up.

Unless you are a highly skilled do-it-yourselfer, avoid taking on jobs that may be dangerous, particularly difficult, or where a mistake can be quite costly. Some jobs simply are not worth the risk. For example, think twice before doing:

• Extensive electrical work
• Plumbing that involves flame
• Roofing work on a steeply pitched or high roof
• Difficult or laborious work, such as removing or pouring a concrete floor
• Siding work that requires scaffolding higher than two stories
• Work where there may be hidden mysteries
• Any other task that you're not confident you can handle

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3 Important Factors for DIY Weekend Warriors

With all the great television coverage available now on cable, DIY jobs seem easier than ever to start and complete on your own! The reality of the situation is the people who are showing you how to do these jobs yourself are usually professionals. When doing a job yourself seems like a good idea, consider 3 important factors before you begin...more >>

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How to Hire a Handyman

Not all jobs are equal, and warrant calling a contractor for. And not all contractors will rush to help you with any odd job!   A good Handyman can fix plumbing and electrical, he can build small additions, demo walls, paint, patch walls, tile, and caulk. Before you just grab the first one you see however, there are some steps to make sure who you have is who you want.

Before You Call:

• Walk through your home and list the small repairs needed ie: dripping faucet, loose cabinet doors, faulty light switch, etc.
• Get organized before you make the call. Keep a list of all repairs needed near the phone so you can give the repair person a good idea of the job size before they come to your home
• Make a list of other items of concern or ones you think might get worse
• Decide if you will be able to afford all the repairs at once or if you want them done in phases. If you want them in phases, prioritize what you want done first

When Your Handyman Arrives:

• Walk through your home and describe each of the repairs to the handyman
• Decide on an hourly or per job rate. Realize that most firms front load the first hour
• Ask for references and examples of other jobs if you still aren't sure about their work ...more>>

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The General Risks with Underground Cash Deals

Everyone loves a bargain. But when it comes to hiring a contractor to work on your home, a "special cash price" can mean a lot of extra risks.

It's no secret that some contractors offer to do work for unrealistically low prices. Part of the "deal" involves paying them in cash without a written contract or a receipt for monies paid...more>>

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