Reasons to take on DIY projects that some people don’t consider

When something breaks down at home, many people’s first instinct is to call a professional, but a growing number of homeowners are choosing to tackle projects themselves, driven by factors ranging from budget constraints to personal fulfillment.

DIY projects span a wide spectrum, from growing backyard gardens and refurbishing old furniture to more complex home maintenance tasks like upgrading lighting fixtures or retiling bathrooms. These self-directed projects serve various needs—creative expression, cost savings, social connection, and skills development.

Most DIY enthusiasts don’t begin with expertise in painting, woodworking, tiling, or electrical work. Instead, they view an outdated bathroom, worn furniture, or broken appliance as an opportunity to learn hands-on skills while solving a household problem.

Jessica Lautz, vice president of research for the National Association of Realtors, notes that while completing tasks independently can save money, the primary motivation for many is the sense of accomplishment and confidence boost. However, she cautions that novice mistakes or underestimating the complexity of work can make some projects more expensive in the long run, with potential safety concerns.

For Chicago resident Casey Finn, a 37-year-old mother of two who has built bookshelves, added wood molding to walls, and tiled a kitchen backsplash, DIY projects begin with a simple question: “Why can’t I do it?” She embraced the challenge of becoming proficient with tools—traditionally considered a male-dominated skill set—and lives by the philosophy that “everything is figure-out-able.”

In 2013, Finn launched “The DIY Playbook,” a lifestyle blog that became a resource for beginners looking to tackle similar projects. Her DIY journey began with apartment decoration and evolved after moving into a century-old house that demanded more advanced maintenance skills.

“It has made me a more confident person in my life. If I can do or build that, I can handle anything,” she explains.

For Deyana Walker, a 30-year-old remote teacher based in Dallas, DIY projects have been transformative. Walker has built tables and shelving and even converted a short school bus into a tiny home that she lived and worked in for over a year while traveling.

“Through the process of DIY, I figured out a lot about who I was and built myself up from a low point,” says Walker, referencing a difficult breakup that motivated her first tiny home construction project. The bus conversion, complete with electrical systems and running water, cost significantly less than purchasing a manufactured campervan, making her travel dreams financially accessible.

For beginners, embarking on DIY projects can be intimidating, especially with conflicting online advice. Some influencers proclaim, “If I can do it, so can you,” while certified professionals warn of safety hazards, potential damage, and unexpected costs.

“You have to weigh the good and the bad: Am I willing to try, with the 50/50 chance I figure it out?” Walker advises. Her approach includes extensive research—cross-referencing online tutorials, consulting library books, and seeking advice from both amateur and professional builders. She also emphasizes safety precautions, including wearing protective gear when working with tools, sealants, or heavy materials.

Both Walker and Finn acknowledge that certain projects require professional intervention. “When it comes to structural changes, electrical work beyond swapping out a light fixture, or plumbing changes that involve moving lines or opening up walls, that is best left to the professionals,” Finn states. She hires experts for jobs requiring inspections and permits, or when she feels uncomfortable with the required expertise level.

Lautz recommends evaluating the long-term durability and value of home projects, particularly as American housing stock ages. Energy-efficient upgrades like replacing doors and windows eventually pay for themselves, while aesthetic improvements such as fresh paint and refinished wood floors increase a property’s curb appeal.

The DIY movement reflects a broader cultural shift toward self-sufficiency, personalization, and sustainability. As online resources continue to make knowledge more accessible, more homeowners are likely to embrace the challenge of learning new skills—while still recognizing when professional expertise is essential for safety and quality outcomes.