[quote author=rocksinmyhead link=topic=2540.msg364572#msg364572 date=140742286
no kidding! I've never owned a home, but from what I hear from coworkers it sounds like for a lot of jobs, hiring a contractor is almost as big of a hassle/time-suck as doing it yourself! which kind of blew my mind, but also renewed my commitment to DIY as much as possible.
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I had a relative who did a lot of crappy DIY jobs around our house, which ended up lowering the value of the house when it ultimately was sold. I swore back then that I'd never ruin my house by having anything less than professional quality work. I commend people who can do professional quality, but if I'm going to do a job only once in my lifetime, it is faster, cheaper, and better to pay someone who knows what he's doing and has the proper equipment to do it. There are still things I just can't stop myself from trying, and sometimes end up having to pay someone extra to clean up my crappy trials. I can change light switches, install ceiling fans, and paint, do some minor plumbing repairs, but I draw the line at things like hanging drywall, or tile repair, roofing or installing a backsplash.
pouring a patio? you're kidding me, right? Oh sure, let me get my concrete mixer out of my garage. No thanks!