9009 West Loop South, Seventh Floor, Houston Texas
1-866-889-9347		 CCCS of the East Bay
A Division of Money Management International
Regional Headquarters  -  7677 Oakport St., Suite 210, Oakland California
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Keep Do-It-Yourself Projects from Breaking the Bank
 
Summer is the perfect time to conquer those long-awaited home improvement projects. For many of us, the definition of “work around the house” has taken on a new meaning. Today’s popular home improvement shows such as Trading Spaces and While You Were Out have sparked a home decorating and remodeling revolution, and those of us with a passion for improving our humble abodes leave our weekly careers behind to become contractors, plumbers and interior decorators.

While investing “sweat-equity” in your project may save some money, the high cost of some do-it-yourself home improvement projects can quickly turn a weekend project into a stressful financial event. For example, the average minor kitchen remodel costs nearly $15,000. If you are considering tackling a project, the following tips will help keep you from breaking the bank.
  • Create a budget. The first tool you will need for any home improvement project is a calculator. Be sure to create a detailed, realistic spending plan. If you plan to do all the work yourself, don't forget to budget for incidentals such as equipment rentals, trash disposal fees and delivery charges. Remember that in addition to a good contractor, every successful job needs a good project manager.
  • Be realistic. “Do it yourself” doesn’t necessarily mean you have to do it alone. Some types of projects, like electrical rewiring, require an expert. If your project requires work done by a professional, get several bids for comparison purposes and be sure to check that they are licensed, bonded and insured. You should also consider enlisting the skills of knowledgeable friends, neighbors and relatives.
  • Know when to say when. Homeowners often find that home improvement projects have a "snowball effect." Just because you plant some trees does not mean that you need a new sprinkler system. Make sure that you know your limitations, and be wary of any contractor that tries to convince you to do more than you planned.
  • Try low-cost alternatives. If you’ve ever seen the show Trading Spaces, you know that dramatic changes can be made for very little money. Before you tear down a wall or add skylights, consider some low-cost home improvement ideas instead. Painting a room, for example, is an inexpensive way to make a dramatic change.
Finally, understand that while home improvement projects can increase the value and comfort of your home, most projects are not necessary. Remembering that your project may be a "want" and not a "need" can help you to have patience and enjoy your home sweet remodeled home.


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CCCS, A Division of Money Management International
Regional Headquarters - 7677 Oakport St., Suite 210, Oakland California
Corporate Address - 9009 West Loop South, Seventh Floor, Houston, TX 77096
It’s time you discovered financial freedom through Consumer Credit Counseling Services. Call 1-866-889-9347 or start counseling online today.