DIY vs Hiring a Pro: When It Pays to Spend and When to Save
Whether you’re preparing your home to sell or settling into a new one, every homeowner faces the same question sooner or later: Should I hire a professional or do it myself?
From landscaping and painting to full-scale renovations, deciding when to roll up your sleeves and when to call in the experts can make a big difference - to your budget but also to your peace of mind.
At the Ji Group, we’ve seen both sides firsthand. Here is how to decide when to save and when it truly pays to spend.
The Power of DIY: Save Money and Add Personal Touches
There is a real sense of satisfaction that comes with taking on a project yourself. Doing a project yourself can save you money, help you learn new skills, and let you make personal touches to your space in meaningful ways.
Great DIY projects include:
Painting walls or cabinets
Updating cabinet or door hardware
Simple landscaping or gardening
Minor cosmetic upgrades (mirrors, shelves)
Simple Flooring
If it is safe, small-scale, and doesn’t require special tools or permits, DIY is often worth it. Plus, a home that has been well cared for is what potential buyers love to see - so even small projects can boost value.
When to Call in the Pros: Safety and Strategy First
Some projects simply require expertise. Hiring a professional isn’t only about convenience - it is about protecting your home, your investment, and ensuring that the job is done right.
Hire a professional for:
Electrical and plumbing work
Roof work (repairs and replacements)
Structural changes
Gas, HVAC or insulation upgrades
Complex flooring, tiling or exterior work
Cutting corners by using unlicensed contractors or performing poorly executed DIY Projects can lead to expensive mistakes; or even safety hazards. A licensed professional brings experience, warranties and reassurance that everything is up to code. In real estate terms, that peace of mind can be priceless.
Think Return on Investment (ROI)
Before beginning any project, ask yourself: Will this add value or just add cost? If you’re not sure how long you will be in your home due to potential job changes or additions of kids/pets or parents - call your trusted real estate professional and make sure you are making smart updates for future resale.
If you are selling soon, focus on updates that offer the best ROI - like a fresh coat of paint, curb appeal, and energy-efficient fixes. But if you’re staying put, consider what enhances your everyday comfort and joy. Sometimes, that’s worth every penny.
The Middle Ground: Partner Up
You don’t always have to choose one or the other. Many homeowners take a hybrid approach - DIY what you can, then bring in a professional for the finishing touches.
For example, you might prep and paint a room yourself, but hire a pro for the trim and ceilings. Or you can design your own landscaping plan, then hire a gardener for installation. It’s about finding the balance that fits your time, skill level, and budget.
Know Your Time and Energy Budget
Even simple DIY projects can turn into projects that quietly take over your weekends. Be honest about what you can realistically take on. Your time has value too - and sometimes spending a bit more to free up that time is the smartest investment you can make. There is nothing more frustrating than unfinished projects.
The best approach to home projects isn’t just about dollars - it’s about balance. Knowing when to DIY and when to hire a professional helps you protect your investment, your safety and your sanity.
At the Ji Group, we love helping homeowners across the Pacific Northwest make smart, strategic decisions to reach their goals. Because in the end, the goal isn’t just to fix up your home, it’s to make it feel like yours every step of the way.