Published On: Mon, Sep 23rd, 2024
Top Stories | 2,825 views

I’m a property expert – these five DIY projects can lower your home’s value | UK | News


A property expert has revealed the top five DIY jobs that can drop the value of your home.

Improvement projects can seem like an affordable way to increase your property’s value, but when done poorly, they can actually do the opposite.

Terry Fisher, a property expert at We Buy Any Home, cautions homeowners to think twice before tackling certain tasks themselves.

“A bad DIY job can end up costing you more than hiring a professional in the first place, especially when you’re trying to sell your home,” he said. “Buyers can easily spot poorly done work, and it can cause them to lose confidence in the overall condition of the property.”

Here are the top five DIY projects that, when done poorly, can lower your home’s value:

1. Improper electrical work

While it might be tempting to handle simple electrical upgrades yourself, it’s one of the most dangerous DIY projects. Faulty wiring or poorly installed outlets can pose serious safety hazards and deter potential buyers. Mr Fisher explained: “If a buyer sees any signs of amateur electrical work, they’ll be worried about hidden dangers, which could lead to them walking away or offering a lower price.”

For any electrical work, it’s crucial to hire a licensed electrician to ensure everything meets safety standards. This guarantees peace of mind for both you and future buyers.

2. Poorly installed flooring

Installing new flooring can transform a space, but if done incorrectly, it can be a costly mistake. Misaligned tiles, gaps in laminate, or uneven hardwood flooring are all signs of a poor DIY job. “Flooring issues not only look bad but can cause structural damage over time,” Mr Fisher said. “Buyers immediately notice these kinds of defects and may assume the rest of the house has been similarly neglected.”

If you lack experience with flooring installation, consider hiring a professional to ensure a clean, polished finish that will enhance, rather than detract from, your home’s value.

3. Sloppy paint jobs

A fresh coat of paint is an easy way to freshen up a home, but a sloppy paint job can have the opposite effect. Uneven coats, visible roller marks, or paint splatters on ceilings and trim give the impression of poor maintenance. “A bad paint job can make even a well-maintained home look neglected,” Mr Fisher said.

To avoid this, take your time with proper prep work, such as taping edges and using high-quality brushes and rollers. If precision isn’t your strong suit, it’s worth hiring a professional painter.

4. Unpermitted structural changes

Removing walls to create open spaces or converting garages into living areas are popular DIY projects, but without the proper permits, these changes can cause serious problems. Mr Fisher warned: “Unpermitted work is a huge red flag for buyers. It raises concerns about safety, potential fines, and future complications with home insurance or resale.”

Before making any structural changes, check your local building codes and ensure that you have the proper permits. This will save you from future headaches and protect your home’s value.

5. Amateur bathroom or kitchen remodels

Bathrooms and kitchens sell homes, but DIY remodels in these areas can easily backfire if done improperly. “Inexperience with plumbing, tiling, or cabinetry installation can lead to leaky pipes, crooked tiles, or uneven countertops,” Mr Fisher said. “These mistakes can be very expensive to fix and are a huge turnoff for potential buyers.”

If you’re considering a bathroom or kitchen remodel, it’s a good idea to bring in a professional, especially for complex tasks like plumbing or electrical work. Buyers want to see quality craftsmanship in these key areas of the home.



Source link