10 Key Signs You’re Spending Too Much on DIY Projects To Avoid Hiring a Pro

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In an effort to save money on home improvement (or other) projects, many people take a DIY approach, figuring they can cut costs and corners by doing work themselves.

While there are certainly a number of things you can learn how to do from some YouTube videos, it’s also easy to do things incorrectly, purchase the wrong materials or make other rookie mistakes that could end up costing you more in the long run than if you’d just hired a professional.

Here are 10 key signs that you’re spending more than you should by skipping the pro to DIY.

You’re Underestimating the Project Scope and Cost

Starting a DIY project without understanding the full scope of work is a common home renovation mistake, according to Courtney Klosterman, home insights expert at Hippo home insurance. 

“Our recent DIY survey supports this, finding that nearly four in 10 (38%) homeowners underestimated how much their DIY project would cost. This turned out to be a significant error for over a third of respondents, with 34% reporting that not accurately estimating costs up front caused them to go over budget,” she explained.

If you’re not clear on the steps, timeline or expenses needed to achieve your goal, pause your project and reassess.

You Have ‘One More Trip Syndrome’

If you aren’t making clear supply lists when shopping, you’re likely falling prey to what Ryan Nelson, founder of Tenant Guide, calls “one more trip syndrome.”

This is where you think you have everything, “but halfway through, you realize you’re short on materials, need a specialized bit for your drill or that one crucial adhesive,” Nelson said.

These trips add up — not just in cost but in wasted time. Professionals usually buy in bulk or have accounts, often getting better prices and having most necessities on hand.

You’re Being Fined the Learning Curve Markup 

If you’re doing something yourself without much experience, Nelson warned this can lead to waste.

“You’re not born knowing how to tile a bathroom perfectly. That first, or second or third attempt might involve miscuts, uneven spacing and wasted materials.”

These “practice runs” become a hidden cost that seasoned pros avoid with their experience.

A Domino Effect of Mistakes Is Happening

DIY can really bite you when a seemingly simple task goes wrong. “I’ve seen a botched plumbing job lead to water damage, requiring not just fixing the original issue but also repairing walls and flooring,” Nelson said.

Professionals have the knowledge to anticipate problems and avoid costly chain reactions.

You’re Ignoring Prep Work Costs

People often focus on the “fun” part — the new paint color or the shiny fixture, Nelson said. But they forget about sandpaper, primer, drop cloths, cleaning supplies and the time spent on preparation, which is crucial for a good result. By the time you get those items covered, your budget might be already mostly spent.

You’re Improvising on Tools or Materials

Trying to save money by improvising tools or materials may backfire, Klosterman said. It can lead to inefficiencies, materials or tools breaking, subpar results and backtracking.

“Worse yet, it could also lead to home damage, redoing parts of the project or even safety hazards,” she added.

You’re Under the Free Labor Illusion

When DIYing a project, remember, too, that you’re not paying yourself a wage, but your time is valuable, Nelson said. Factoring in hours spent researching, executing and troubleshooting, you might realize you could have been spending that time more productively or enjoyably.

You’re Not Factoring in Tool Rental or Purchases

Specialized tools can be expensive, and while renting may seem cost-effective, delays can lead to extended rental fees that exceed the cost of hiring someone who already owns the equipment, Nelson warned.

You’re Ignoring Permits and Inspections

Skipping permits or inspections can lead to costly consequences, Klosterman said. “It could also damage your home’s resale value, void your homeowner’s insurance or even lead to legal trouble.”

You’re Not Reviewing Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Renovations or upgrades can impact your insurance coverage limits. Klosterman advised contacting your insurance company to ensure your policy is up to date and that you’re covered if something goes wrong. Understanding the difference between maintenance, repairs and renovations can also inform smarter decisions.

When To Hire a Pro

Anything outside of your scope that requires formal inspection, a permit or involves electrical or plumbing is best left to professionals unless you have certified expertise.

Klosterman added that major issues like extensive water damage, mold, structural problems and HVAC repairs should also be handled by professionals.

“The key to a successful DIY project lies in strategic planning. Creating a detailed home maintenance plan can help identify tasks you can complete yourself or where you can develop new skills,” Klosterman said.