When it comes to home improvement , DIY is more popular than ever. There’s just something satisfying about improving your home with your own two hands and being able to enjoy the fruits of your labor, day after day. However, home improvement projects can be expensive, and many people shy away from tackling home improvements they know they would enjoy because of their skill level or the fear of high costs.
This doesn’t have to be the case. While some projects – like a complete bathroom remodel – are going to be expensive, other DIY projects can be tackled in an economical and enjoyable way. These projects may include re-painting a room, installing a new ceiling fan or replacing old, damaged baseboards.
The limit is your imagination, so look around your house to see what home improvements could enhance your home and then apply these tips for an affordable and rewarding experience.
Find your motivation
The most rewarding DIY projects are those that satisfy a real need in your home and those you’ll use or see everyday. Whether it’s to spruce up a room’s appearance, enhance its usability, repair existing damage or another project that may increase your home’s resale value, select one that will be meaningful. Find out where your motivations lie and choose a project that satisfies the goal. You’ll put more effort into the project and be happier with the result.
Know your limits
The “do” in “do it yourself ” varies tremendously based on who you are and the skills you possess. If you’re a licensed contractor, your ability to “do” is probably quite high. But for most people, focus on projects you know you can handle. If you’re unsure, surf the web for a how-to video on your chosen project and watch it closely to see if it matches your capabilities. Tackling a project you can handle on your own will protect you from calling in a contractor last minute and incurring unexpected expenses.
Be Prepared
Whatever the DIY project it is important to get the right supplies so it stays a fun activity and not a stressful, unorganized experience. So if you are painting make sure you have enough for a second and possibly a third coat and if you are doing something like a charity project you may want to get a machine to make buttons and other supplies so that you can represent your cause in a fun way. Button machines are also helpful for other projects like key holders and bottle openers, so buying a product that can be used for multiple things is a key component of saving money and making more of your own DIY creations.
Turn loose coins into value
You have more money lying around your home to support your DIY project than you may think – and it’s nestled in that jar of coins you keep on the dresser, under the couch cushions or hiding on the closet floor. The average home has an estimated $42.92 in unused loose change, according to data from Coinstar. So collect your coins and bring them to your nearest Coinstar kiosk to put your new-found money toward that DIY project.
Make it a family affair
Turn your DIY project into lasting memories by including your children in the work. Assign them tasks you know they can accomplish. Ask younger kids to sort supplies or carry lightweight materials, while older children can be tasked with painting large spaces or performing simple hammering tasks. You’ll find that your little helpers may even be eager to sign up for the next project.
Take pictures to record your accomplishment
Your DIY project will spawn many memories, so take pictures to capture them all. Before-and-after pictures can be a fun way to see how your project improved your home. And don’t forget to take pictures throughout the process as well. Your entire family will enjoy looking back at the progression years down the road.
To learn more about how Coinstar can help you find the cash you need for your next DIY project, visit coinstar.com.
This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.