Renovations: DIY vs. Professional

When it comes time to make improvements to your building or units, you’ll need to decide what tasks to tackle yourself and when to hire a professional. Use the list below as a general guide for what renovations are best suited to each situation. Although hiring professionals is a smart choice for many jobs, keep in mind the added costs -- such as installation fees -- when making your decision.

In general, leave detailed work or artistic finishes up to professionals to ensure the look is right and the work is done with the proper techniques. But most jobs can be judged by your own skill level and familiarity with the type of work involved. For example, you can replace sinks and toilets if you have a good understanding of plumbing. For detailed instructions on how to do a variety of improvements, check out Web sites like the DIY Network or HGTV Pro.