Doing home improvement projects yourself can be fun, plus you save money that would otherwise be spent on a handyman or contractor. However, doing projects you don't have the skills for can do more harm than good. Do you have what it takes to do it yourself? Here are some examples from our real estate agents of typical home improvement projects and whether they fall into beginner, intermediate, or expert skill levels.

Beginner Projects

Beginner home improvement projects require only basic knowledge and tools, which are perfect for even the most unskilled homeowners. As long as you are willing to learn, you can usually tackle these projects yourself. Be sure to do your research before starting!

• Paint the interior. Painting interior walls and trim is a great beginner project with a substantial impact on your home's appearance. You'll need to invest in paint, tools such as brushes and painter's tape, and you may want to watch some videos showing painting techniques to achieve a professional look.
• Patch drywall. Does your drywall have holes that need to be patched before you paint? This, too, is typically a beginner-level project. Talk to an employee at your local home improvement store or watch videos online to see what you need.

Intermediate Projects

Someone who has intermediate skills knows their way around a toolbox and already has some experience with home maintenance and improvement projects. If you consider yourself "handy," you're probably capable of completing intermediate home improvement projects, but be sure to stop work and consult a pro if you start to feel you're in over your head.

• Exterior painting. Due to the danger of climbing ladders and the need to use and be familiar with additional equipment such as ladders and paint sprayers, painting the outside of your house is an intermediate-level project.
• Install a tile backsplash. Installing tile is a more advanced project, but installing a backsplash is typically easy enough for someone with intermediate skills. It's a small surface area, requiring fewer tiles and less planning to get it right.
• Lay vinyl or laminate flooring. If your original floor isn't salvageable or you're ready for an update, today's easy-to-use vinyl and laminate flooring options make it a doable project for someone with intermediate skills.

Advanced Projects

Advanced home improvement projects are not suitable for the average homeowner. They typically require specialized tools, experience, and possibly even licensing. If you don't feel you have the knowledge and experience to tackle one of these projects, be honest with yourself and hire a professional. Professional quality work will also do more for your home's value over a DIY job, as you'll see if you browse other Klamath Falls homes for sale.

• Build a deck or pergola. You'll probably want to hire a professional for most outdoor structures unless you have advanced carpentry skills. These structures must be strong and safe and probably require a permit.
• Remodel your bathroom, kitchen, or basement. For most large-scale overhauls, you will likely need to hire a professional. Remodels require a lot of careful planning and expertise to manage all the different facets of the project.

Many homeowners love a good home improvement project, and it's good to know that your hard work translates into a real investment in your home's value. However, be careful not to get in over your head, and be honest with yourself when a professional's knowledge and experience are needed. For more information about what home improvement projects you should do before selling your home, contact us today.