In this guide, we’ll break down:
What home improvement projects sellers can DIY
When hiring a pro makes sense (and saves money in the long run)
How to decide based on time, budget, and ROI
Let’s get into it.
? First: Ask Yourself These 3 Key Questions
Before diving into any home improvement work, ask:
1. What’s the goal?
Are you trying to:
Increase your home's resale value?
Make it more marketable?
Fix inspection red flags?
The answer helps prioritize where to spend time and money.
2. How skilled are you—really?
Be honest about your DIY experience.
Installing new flooring from YouTube videos isn’t the same as fixing a leaky faucet.
If you've never held a paintbrush or a power drill, it might be smarter to leave it to the pros.
3. What’s your timeline?
Are you listing your home in a few weeks or several months?
DIY jobs often take longer than expected—especially when life gets in the way.
Common Fixes Sellers Can (Usually) DIY
1. Painting (Interior Walls)
Low risk, high reward
Choose neutral colors (like greige or soft white)
Take your time with prep and edging
? Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape and high-quality rollers for a smoother finish. Don’t forget the baseboards!
2. Minor Landscaping
Mowing, weeding, mulching, and planting flowers = big curb appeal boost
Clean walkways and add fresh soil or decorative stone
? First impressions matter—especially online.
3. Cabinet Hardware Swap
Unscrew old handles/knobs and install modern replacements
Choose brushed nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze for broad appeal
? Easy kitchen and bath upgrade without spending a fortune.
4. Lighting Fixtures Bulbs
Swapping outdated fixtures can modernize a room instantly
Replace bulbs with bright, warm LEDs for natural light
? Stick with classic styles that match your home’s aesthetic.
5. Deep Cleaning
Not glamorous—but essential.
DIY deep clean or hire a cleaning service. Clean:
Windows (inside and out)
Baseboards
Grout and tile
Carpets (rent a steam cleaner if needed)
? A spotless home feels more valuable to buyers.
DIY Projects That Can Go Wrong (and Cost You)
1. Plumbing Repairs
Leaky faucets or toilet installs may seem simple—until they aren’t.
One wrong twist and you’ve got water damage.
? Hire a plumber if the fix involves valves, pipes, or anything behind walls.
2. Electrical Work
Even swapping a ceiling fan can be dangerous if you're not experienced.
Incorrect wiring isn’t just unsafe—it can also delay closing if flagged by an inspector.
⚡ Always hire a licensed electrician for wiring, outlets, and breaker panels.
3. Roof Repairs
Don’t DIY anything on the roof—too dangerous and easy to do poorly.
Even missing shingles or a poorly sealed skylight can lead to leaks and liability.
?♂️ Pros are safer, faster, and better insured.
4. Drywall Plaster Repairs
Small holes? DIY with a patch kit.
Large holes, cracks, or uneven surfaces? Call a pro.
? Uneven texture or bulging seams are a red flag for buyers.
5. Flooring Installation
Laminate might seem DIY-friendly—but bad cuts, uneven boards, or gaps can hurt the final look.
Hardwood, tile, or carpet? Definitely call in the pros.
? Flooring is one of the first things buyers see—don’t let a lumpy install ruin it.
? Think Like a Buyer: What Actually Adds Value?
Not all updates have equal impact. Focus on changes that:
Improve photos and first impressions
Solve problems (not just cover them up)
Appeal to a wide buyer audience
High-ROI Fixes (That May Warrant Hiring a Pro):
Kitchen cabinet painting or refacing
Bathroom vanity replacement
Modern light fixture upgrades
Entry door replacement
Fresh interior/exterior paint
? These upgrades often offer 2x or more return on investment when done well.
? Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
| Task | DIY Cost | Pro Cost | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Painting | $150–$300 | $800–$2,000 | Low |
| Faucet Replacement | $50–$100 | $150–$300 | Medium |
| Light Fixture Install | $75–$150 | $150–$400 | Medium–High |
| Tile Installation | $300–$700 | $800–$2,000+ | High |
| Lawn Cleanup Mulch | $50–$200 | $300–$600 | Low |
? Note: Prices vary by location and project size.
?️ When Hiring a Pro Makes the Most Sense
? You’re short on time
Need to list fast? DIY can drag. Pros work faster and more efficiently.
? The project involves permits or code compliance
Electrical, plumbing, and structural changes often require city approval.
? The work impacts the home inspection
A buyer’s inspector will spot sloppy work—and you could lose a deal or be forced to redo it anyway.
? You want a polished, professional finish
Pros know how to deliver the crisp, clean look buyers expect in a competitive market.
How to Find the Right Contractor or Pro
Get 2–3 quotes for each job
Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and Angi
Ask for photos of recent work
Verify licenses and insurance
Request a written estimate with scope and timeline
? Avoid handymen who “don’t need permits” or “can start today for cash.” That’s a red flag.
Final Thoughts: DIY Smart, Delegate Strategically
You don’t need to renovate your whole home to sell it fast—but strategic updates can add serious value.
The key is knowing when it’s smart to DIY, and when it’s better to let the pros handle it.
✅ Do-it-yourself for simple upgrades
✅ Call in the pros for anything technical, dangerous, or high-stakes
✅ Always think like a buyer: clean, modern, and move-in ready wins the day
Want to Maximize ROI Before You List?
? Download our “Pre-Sale Fix-Up Checklist”
? Schedule a consultation with a local real estate expert
?️ Ask us for trusted contractor referrals in your area
Important Links
Boulevard Coast Jalan Loyang Besar EC
How to Buy a Condo in Singapore as a Foreigner
Understanding the Loan to Value (LTV) Limit in Singapore Real Estate
Cheapest Freehold Condos in Singapore
What Is Option to Purchase in Singapore
