Home repairs
Step one - Don't waste your time. One of the most common misconceptions is that a pound spent is a pound on the value. There are a number of DIY projects which might even devalue your home. Property experts say cheap new floors and converting one type of room into another (say a garage into a bedroom) are the biggest mistakes. If you have an old house, as a general principle, don't waste time and money doing something to your house which can't be undone. Most buyers prefer original features and many of the materials used in older buildings are superior to those used today. And, don't cut corners, bad work can actually drag prices down.
Step two - Get advice. For handy DIY tips and basic tutorials on how to do basic work, such as installing a power socket, try www.diydoctor.org.uk, www.diyfixit.co.uk or www.diynot.com. DIY doctor has a useful Q&A forum where qualified tradesmen give advice. For trouble with waterworks www.houseprofessionals.com offers good straightforward advice on the basics and www.plumbingpages.com is the place for more comprehensive advice on everything from choosing a boiler to installing an entire central heating system. Finally, for would be carpenters, the American website www.finewoodworking.com offers well-presented furniture plans and step-by-step instructions for a small annual fee. Many of these sites offer good advice on where to source paints and equipment too - remember giant DIY chains are not necessarily the cheapest.
Step three - Be green. While you've got your DIY work gear on, why not look at a number of simple measures on improving your home's energy rating? The five most cost-effective improvements to your home are:
- Fitting draft excluders
- Installing low energy light bulbs
- Insulating cavity walls and fitting a boiler jacket
- Insulating your loft
All these measures pay for themselves within two years.
Step four - Don't despair. If you mess up - and we all do - call in the professionals, but don't make things worse by bringing in a cowboy. Find a competent and recommended professional through www.homepro.com or www.ratedtradesmen.com which show local tradesmen checked out for financial soundness and rated by customers. Sometimes it does pay to have a job done properly.
* Teena's views are personal and for general information only. Always seek independent financial advice.