5 steps for fixing up your house: A beginner’s guide

Whether you find yourself in a fixer-upper, a house that doesn’t quite match your dream style, or you're looking to make updates to maximize your home's value before listing it, learning the basics of do-it-yourself is crucial to keeping costs down. 

As someone who has transformed every square inch of my homes through DIY projects, I can attest to the transformative power of taking matters into your own hands. With the right tools, knowledge and a bit of determination, you can turn your vision for your home into a reality.

I'm Christine, the founder of Honey Built Home, where I share my passion for DIY projects and home renovations. From transforming outdated bathrooms to creating custom-built furniture pieces, I've turned my love for DIY into a fulfilling career. But it wasn't always smooth sailing. I started just like you — with little knowledge, a sledgehammer and a distaste for dated tile. 

A DIY renovation begins with a dream and a sledgehammer. Photo courtesy Christine Gummersall

My journey began with a single renovation project, fueled by a desire to create a home I loved. Over the years, I've honed my skills, tackled countless projects and learned valuable lessons along the way. Now, I'm excited to share my insights with you to help you embark on your own DIY journey.

Let's dive into five tips to help you get started DIYing your home improvements.

1. Arm yourself with the basics

When it comes to DIY projects, having the right tools can make all the difference. By mastering just a few key power tools, you can tackle thousands of projects with confidence. Yes, I said it. You do not need a workshop filled with thousands of dollars of power tools!

In my online course, DIY Beginner Basics, I teach the fundamentals of five essential power tools: miter saw, drill, jig saw, orbital sander and brad nailer. Learning how to properly use these tools opens up a world of possibilities for home improvement projects.

Find power tools on KSL Classifieds

2. Start small and build confidence

If you're new to DIY, starting with smaller projects is a great way to gain confidence and hone your skills. Consider picking up a piece of used furniture from KSL Classifieds and giving it a makeover. 

Not only will you save money by buying used, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you transformed something old into something new. Plus, by browsing KSL Classifieds, you can also find used tools at great prices, allowing you to double up on savings and kickstart your DIY journey without breaking the bank.

Find furniture on KSL Classifieds

Watch tutorials to learn how the pros take on home projects. Photo courtesy Christine Gummersall

3. Watch tutorials

No matter what project you have in mind, chances are there's a tutorial out there to guide you through it. From building a bookshelf to installing a backsplash, the internet is a treasure trove of DIY tutorials waiting to be discovered. 

Take some time to search for tutorials related to your project, or explore similar projects that can serve as inspiration. You'll be amazed at how much you can learn just by watching a few videos or reading a few blog posts.

This is exactly how I got started — researching and reading through various tutorials. The biggest difference between a professional and a DIYer is that a professional has learned how to fix mistakes. Remember, everyone makes mistakes; they are learning opportunities. 

So, seek out tutorials for your desired projects and don't be afraid to learn as you go. Embrace the process of trial and error and with each project, you'll gain valuable experience and confidence in your DIY skills.

4. Be your own general contractor

As a homeowner, you're the boss of your own home improvement projects. While there may be some tasks that are beyond your expertise, such as electrical or plumbing work, there are plenty of aspects of a project that you can tackle yourself. 

Use KSL Classifieds to find and interview subcontractors for specialized tasks. Be sure to always get at least three bids on the same project; make sure the bids are covering the same scope, so you are comparing apples to apples.  

When finishing my basement, I opted to hire out the electrical, sheetrock and rough plumbing, but I installed the floors, baseboards and cabinets myself, and I did the painting. By being hands-on throughout the process, you'll not only save money, but also gain a deeper understanding of your home and its systems.

Search subcontractors on KSL

No DIY job is without challenges. Take it slow and enjoy the ride. Photo courtesy Christine Gummersall

5. Take your time and enjoy the process

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a DIY masterpiece. Take your time with each project, and don't be afraid to ask for help or seek advice when needed. Remember that every project will have its challenges, but overcoming them is all part of the learning experience. Celebrate your successes, learn from your mistakes and most importantly, enjoy the journey of transforming your house into a home that reflects your unique style and personality.

By following these tips and embracing the DIY mindset, you'll be well on your way to creating a home you love, all while saving money and gaining valuable skills along the way. So roll up your sleeves, grab your tools and let the DIY adventures begin!

If you are ready to get started on your own DIY journey use the code KSL15 for 15% off of DIY Beginner Basics, and be sure to ask questions and say hi over on Instagram @honeybuilthome.