Maybe you are one of those people that think you could never repair a thing in your home. You let it go or hire someone to take care of it.
I’m grateful to have a husband who doesn’t believe in hiring professionals unless absolutely necessary. If he doesn’t know how to fix something, he will go through every means possible to avoid paying someone.
The reason I am thankful for this is that the biggest costs when it comes to repairs is the labor. You can pay $20 for the actual item that needs fixing or replacing but another $100 for someone to spend five minutes taking care of it.
There have been only two times we’ve hired a professional to come into our home. Once was when our basement flooded (caused by tree roots in the drain) and the second time was to have central air installed.
He has replaced windows and believe it or not, has even replaced a roof. Yet he’s not a professional and has never had training in those things.
What does it take to make basic home repairs? I believe three things: motivation, research and some commonsense.
First, let’s consider motivation. If saving money (possibly hundreds of dollars) doesn’t motivate you, well then I give up. I don’t know what will.
Second, let’s consider research. Today you can find virtually anything you need on the internet. If you want to learn how to fix something, all you have to do is Google it. Not only can you find step-by-step written instructions but oftentimes you are given access to videos that show you how to do it.
You can also visit your nearest hardware or homebuilders store to pick up a magazine or book on whatever needs fixing. Don’t want to spend the money? See if the library offers books on home repair.
Third, we can’t dismiss commonsense. Some things we make more difficult than they really are. And if you really don’t know what to do or don’t want to invest the time researching, ask a fellow homeowner. Most likely others have gone through something similar and can offer tips.
So are you ready to become your own professional? You can make basic repairs!