Getting your home ready to sell can feel like a never-ending to-do list — fresh paint, squeaky doors, outdated fixtures, minor repairs… you name it. And the big question I often hear from homeowners is:
“Should I do this myself or hire a professional?”
The answer? It depends.
Some tasks are easy weekend projects, while others could cost you time, money, and even offers if not done right. Here’s a breakdown of which home prep fixes are DIY-friendly and when it’s worth hiring a pro—especially if you’re prepping your home for the market this spring.
DIY-WORTHY FIXES
If you’re handy (or even just a good YouTuber), here are some common tasks you can likely tackle yourself:
1. Painting Small Rooms or Touch-Ups
Fresh paint = instant refresh. Stick to neutral tones like soft gray or warm beige to appeal to more buyers.
DIY if: You have a steady hand and basic painting tools.
Hire if: You need tall ladder work or have lots of trim/details.
2. Swapping Out Light Fixtures or Hardware
Modern knobs, pulls, and light fixtures go a long way in making a home feel updated.
DIY if: You’re comfortable with basic electrical work and using a drill.
Hire if: You need to rewire or install heavy fixtures (especially on high ceilings).
3. Cleaning and Decluttering
This one’s 100% DIY. Get rid of excess furniture, organize closets, clean baseboards, and make your home feel open and airy.
Bonus Tip: Rent a carpet cleaner or borrow one from a friend for a serious refresh on rugs and carpet.
4. Simple Landscaping
Trim bushes, mow the lawn, add mulch, and plant a few seasonal flowers.
DIY if: You enjoy yard work and have basic tools.
Hire if: Your lawn needs major grading, irrigation, or tree trimming.
JOBS TO HIRE OUT
Sometimes it’s best to call in the pros—especially if time, safety, or quality is a concern. These are the fixes I highly recommend hiring for:
1. Major Electrical or Plumbing Work
That leaky sink or flickering light might seem small, but a quick fix could turn into a major mess (or a safety issue) without the right experience.
Hire a licensed pro to handle anything involving wires, pipes, or water lines.
2. Roof Repairs
Even small roof issues can be deal-breakers for buyers—and they’re best left to professionals with the right tools and safety gear.
3. HVAC Tune-Ups or Repairs
Buyers want to know your furnace and AC are in good shape. Schedule a professional tune-up and keep the receipt to show during showings.
4. Window Replacement
Replacing a foggy or cracked window can add curb appeal and energy efficiency—but this is best done by someone who can ensure a proper fit and seal.
5. Anything You’ll Rush Through or Dread
If a project feels overwhelming or you know it won’t get done right (or on time), it’s worth outsourcing. A sloppy paint job or uneven tile can actually lower your home’s appeal.
A Quick Note on Budget
It’s important to be strategic about what you spend before listing. You don’t need to renovate your whole home—but you do want to make sure it’s clean, safe, and shows well.
Focus on:
- First impressions (entryway, curb appeal)
- Kitchens and bathrooms (small upgrades = big returns)
- Eliminating obvious red flags (leaks, odors, broken fixtures)
Not sure where to start? I offer free home prep consultations—just ask!
Need a Pro in Columbia, Missouri? Here Are a Few Local Contractors:
If you decide to hire out some tasks, I’ve got a list of trusted professionals right here in Columbia:
- Withrow Electric – For safe, professional electrical updates.
📞 573) 445-8086 - TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors – Excellent for interior remodeling or major updates.
📞 (573) 442-7292
- Veritas Construction – Amazing service for roof inspection and repairs.
📞(573) 949-2330
- Oxy Fresh Carpet Cleaning – Great for that deep-clean sparkle.
📞(573) 818-3883 - Adam’s Plumbing – Fast, affordable, and local.
📞 (573) 808-4786
Final Thought
You don’t have to do everything—and you don’t have to do it alone. A little planning, a few smart updates, and the right help can make all the difference when it’s time to sell.
Thinking about listing your home this spring? Let’s talk about a custom prep plan that makes the process easy, efficient, and profitable.