Hiring a Contractor vs. DIY – When is it time to call a professional?

DIY projects are rarely as easy as they seem, and all too often it ends up costing you,” says Angie Hicks, founder of online referral service Angie's List.

If you’re a fan of HGTV or TLC, you’ve seen the families who try to remodel their home themselves and end up living in a construction zone for months, some for years, and never have a finished home. It’s stressful and could have been avoided by following these simple guidelines for hiring a contractor vs. DIY:

   1.  How big is the project? You might not know until you knock down a wall or remove a toilet or sink. If you have to remove something to understand the full scope of the project, you want to hire a licensed contractor. They have the skills, expertise, and resources to fix and finish the project in a reasonable amount of time.

2.      What is your level of experience for this type of project? You might be a weekend warrior when it comes to home improvement but that does not mean you can fix your friend’s car. Understanding your experience and limitations will (or should) help you determine when it’s time to call a contractor.

3.      What is the cost of the project? If you can hire a contractor for less money and/or time, you should probably do it especially if there is a specific deadline for your project (new baby on the way, relatives coming for a visit, etc.). Be realistic about the amount of time you can spend on the project including your work schedule and family and social obligations.

4.      What does the project require? Consider the purchase of tools, equipment rental, and permits required for the job. If you need any or all of these, it’s time to call a contractor.

5.      Are you in over your head? It’s okay to throw in the towel if a simple DIY turns into a longer term, more complicated project. The sooner you stop and let a professional take over, the better for you and your wallet.

While we want to save money by taking care of small projects around the home, sometimes the best thing is to hire a licensed contractor.

If you realize your project is more than you can handle here is a great General Contractor—Phil Pfeif with Better Built Construction  He can do all your large projects. Now for the honey do lists or smaller projects Nathan with Optimal Services can attend to them. 

If you realize even if you did some improvements to your home, it still will not fit your needs and it’s time to move, my team at Beery Realty is here to help you! 

Contact us today to learn more. BeeryRealty@gmail.com  or 480-570-1912.

A list of 10 East Valley Neighborhoods you should check out.

If you’re looking for a home either new or a re-sale- in the South East Valley of Phoenix; including Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, or San Tan Valley you have  a lot of choices. Here are 10 communities in no particular order. I think they are worth checking out for your consideration if you are looking for a resale home.  

1.                  Dobson Ranch – Built between 1973 and 1999, this well-established community offers easy access to freeways, walking distance to schools, and year round community events. Dobson Ranch offers tennis courts, community pool, golf course, meeting space, and programs for all ages. Centrally located between Tempe, Gilbert, and Mesa you are close to ASU, MMC, Hospitals and Sky Harbor Airport.

2.                  Val Vista Lakes – Located in the heart of the fast-growing community of Gilbert, Val Vista Lakes offers more than 24 subdivisions and lakeside views, and a community center with heated pool and beach with sand, where you can enjoy special events with family and friends.

3.                  Augusta Ranch – Located in Mesa, Augusta Ranch offers golf, good neighbors, and daily private security to the residents of its 2,000 homes. Close to Hiking Trails, River Tubing, Biking and Motor cross.

4.                  Parkwood Ranch – Located in East Mesa, this community of more than 1,400 homes includes 40+ acres of parks, five tot play areas, lighted basketball and volleyball courts, and an elementary school. Easy access to 202, 101 and 60, close to museums, and theater and tons of entertainment. 

5.                  Fulton Ranch – Located in a sprawling Chandler community, Fulton Ranch offers playgrounds for kids, community parks, shopping and restaurants, and nearby Hamilton High School.

6.                  Ocotillo Lakes – With more than 162 acres of interconnected lakes and water features, it goes without saying that Ocotillo Lakes is a beautiful community. The Ocotillo Golf Resort is perfect for a round of golf, a wedding, or another special event for friends and family.

7.                  Seville – This is the premier community in the Gilbert area because of its proximity to the Seville Golf & Country Club, freeways, and schools. Walking paths, parks, and sports courts are available throughout the community.

8.                  The Islands – Walking distance to parks and schools, The Islands offers a great atmosphere, community activities, and three golf courses within ten miles.

9.                  Power Ranch – Community pools and splash pads, 26+ miles of trails, community clubhouse and a 7.5 mile park make this a sought-after neighborhood, easy access to shopping and entertainment.   

10.              Red Mountain Ranch – Located in east Mesa, Red Mountain Ranch offers golf courses, community and fitness centers, and parks easy access to freeways and Canyon lake is only about 30 minutes away for the water lovers.

If you’re ready to start looking for a home in one of these or other east valley neighborhoods, check out my website at www.AzBuysHomes.com go to the Map search and you will find all the listing on the MLS! If any catch your eye I would be happy to set up an appointment for you to see them!   

Call Beery Realty today! 480-570-1912