Owning a home (or even better, an investment property) comes with a lot of pride, but also a lot of responsibility. Suddenly, those squeaky doors, leaking taps, and faded walls don’t just belong to a house, they belong to you.
And here’s where it gets tricky: should you grab your toolbox and tackle it yourself, or call in the professionals? The decision could save or cost you thousands.
Why DIY Can Be a Win
For many South Africans, DIY feels empowering. It’s personal, creative, and sometimes budget-friendly. A fresh coat of paint, fixing a fence, or updating cabinet handles can all make your home look newer and even increase its value. In fact, research shows that small, well-done updates can increase resale value by up to 5%, without breaking the bank. For investors, DIY can also be a way to keep costs down and improve rental appeal. A tidy garden, polished finishes, or simple upgrades can attract better tenants and justify higher rental income.
The “Hidden” Cost of DIY
But, and it’s a big but, not everything is worth a Saturday project. Some fixes are better left to professionals: electrical work, plumbing, roofing, or anything structural.
- Insurance risk: Many insurance providers won’t cover damages caused by unlicensed DIY work.
- Tenant safety: If you rent out your property, DIY gone wrong could create hazards and legal trouble.
- Resale value: Prospective buyers (and their inspectors) will notice shoddy workmanship, which can drop your home’s market value.
A quick “let me just fix this” could easily turn into a “why did I do that?” when you’re faced with a repair bill bigger than what you saved.
The Importance of Upkeep
Here’s a stat you might not know: neglecting basic home maintenance can reduce property value by up to 10%. That’s hundreds of thousands of rand wiped away because the gutters weren’t cleaned or the damp wasn’t treated.
Upkeep is non-negotiable whether it’s your forever home or a rental investment. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property looking good, it protects your investment in the long run. Think of it like servicing a car: ignore it, and the breakdown will cost you far more.
Save or Spend? A Quick Checklist
Before you dive into DIY, ask yourself:
- Cosmetic or critical? Repainting? Go ahead. Fixing wiring? Step away.
- What’s the damage if I get it wrong? Sometimes saving R1,000 now leads to a R20,000 repair later.
- Time vs. skill. Do you have the tools, knowledge, and patience to do it properly?
- Is it an investment property? Cutting corners might save you today, but tenant complaints and poor upkeep can drive down returns.
Bottom Line
DIY can be fun, rewarding, and sometimes cost-saving but it’s not always the answer. Know when to roll up your sleeves, and when to call in the pros.
At the end of the day, your home (or investment property) isn’t just about bricks and mortar, it’s one of your most valuable assets. Treat it wisely, and it will reward you for years to come.
