Should You Hire a Contractor or Do It Yourself?

Home improvement projects are an exciting part of homeownership, offering the opportunity to personalize your living space, improve functionality, and even increase your home’s value. But one of the most important decisions you’ll face at the beginning of any renovation or repair is this: Should you hire a contractor or do it yourself?

In Palm Springs, where home styles range from iconic mid-century modern to contemporary desert estates, the answer depends on multiple factors. From the scope of the work to budget and permits, each choice comes with benefits and potential drawbacks. The Bernal-Smith Group, with their deep knowledge of the local market, often helps clients navigate these decisions—especially when resale value and quality of finish are top priorities.

This blog post will guide you through key considerations for determining whether to hire a professional or roll up your sleeves and take the DIY route.

The first and most critical factor is understanding the complexity and scale of the project. Repainting a room, replacing cabinet hardware, or installing shelving are relatively straightforward tasks that many homeowners can tackle with little research and effort.

However, projects that involve electrical systems, plumbing, structural changes, or major demolition typically require a licensed professional. These tasks can be dangerous without proper expertise and often involve building codes and permits that must be handled properly to ensure compliance and safety.

In Palm Springs, many homes feature unique architectural elements like post-and-beam construction, clerestory windows, and historic materials. Working with a contractor ensures these features are preserved or updated correctly according to code.

DIY projects can be rewarding, but also have a learning curve. If you have experience with tools and home repairs, you may feel comfortable installing a backsplash, repairing a fence, or upgrading a light fixture. But if you’re venturing into unfamiliar territory, take a moment to honestly assess your skill set.

Mistakes in home improvement can be costly. A poorly installed tile floor or leaking shower can lead to repairs that cost more than hiring a pro would have in the first place. YouTube tutorials can offer helpful guidance, but they rarely account for your home’s specific quirks or challenges.

If your project involves your home's core systems or will be visible to potential buyers in the future, professional-quality workmanship matters.

DIY projects can save money upfront, but also demand your time and energy. Consider how many hours a project will take you versus a licensed contractor. Do you have weekends or evenings to learn, source materials, and complete the work?

If you’re working full-time or juggling family responsibilities, a DIY job may take weeks or months to complete. Hiring a contractor may cost more, but the job will likely be finished faster and with less disruption to your daily life.

Time is also money. If you’re preparing your home for sale, delays in a renovation project can mean missed opportunities on the market. In this case, hiring a professional can be a more efficient and strategic choice.

Budget is often the driving force behind choosing DIY. Labor costs can account for a large portion of any home improvement project, so doing it yourself is a logical way to cut expenses.

But DIY comes with its own hidden costs. You may need to purchase tools, rent equipment, or buy extra materials due to mistakes. Some projects also require disposal fees or transportation arrangements.

Contractors typically buy materials at a discount and already have the necessary tools and crew. They’re also more likely to get the job done right the first time, preventing costly do-overs.

When comparing costs, get multiple quotes from licensed contractors and price out your DIY version—including time, tools, and contingency expenses. Then weigh the savings against potential risks and results.

In Palm Springs, permits are required for many remodeling projects, especially those involving electrical, plumbing, structural changes, or exterior modifications. If you’re updating a mid-century home in a designated historic district, even paint colors and landscaping may need approval.

Licensed contractors are familiar with local permitting processes and can save you from legal headaches, delays, and penalties. They also schedule and manage inspections to ensure your project passes city requirements.

Homeowners attempting a DIY project without the proper permits may face issues during resale. The Bernal-Smith Group often encounters situations where unpermitted work must be disclosed or corrected before a home can close. Avoid future obstacles by ensuring all major work is documented and permitted.

Home improvement should enhance your quality of life, but it also influences resale value. Buyers in Palm Springs expect a certain level of finish and craftsmanship, especially in luxury neighborhoods or architecturally significant homes.

If you plan to sell your home in the future, quality matters. A kitchen that’s been updated with the help of a skilled contractor will stand out more than a budget-friendly DIY renovation that looks mismatched or amateur.

Hiring professionals also allows you to choose higher-end finishes, ensure consistency, and implement features that align with local buyer preferences. Whether it's a walk-in shower, modern patio upgrade, or open-concept layout, expert execution pays off.

The Bernal-Smith Group can advise on which upgrades are most attractive to buyers in your specific Palm Springs neighborhood, helping you prioritize renovations that yield strong returns.

Despite the challenges, there are plenty of situations where DIY is a smart choice:

• You enjoy hands-on projects and have experience with home repairs
• The task is low-risk, such as painting, landscaping, or replacing cabinet hardware
• You have the time and patience to learn as you go
• The project doesn’t require permits or inspections
• You want to personalize your space without spending a lot

Even small DIY upgrades can make a difference. Fresh paint, updated lighting, and new faucets are low-cost ways to improve your home’s appeal and functionality.

Hiring a contractor is likely the better path when:

• The project involves plumbing, electrical, or structural changes
• Permits or inspections are required
• You’re short on time or need the project completed quickly
• The work will impact your home’s resale value
• You want peace of mind knowing it’s done professionally

Always vet contractors carefully. Look for proper licensing, insurance, references, and examples of recent work. The Bernal-Smith Group can connect you with trusted professionals in Palm Springs who specialize in the types of renovations that matter most to local buyers.

Whether you're planning renovations before selling or simply upgrading your forever home, the Bernal-Smith Group can help you make smart decisions. With extensive experience in the Palm Springs market, they offer valuable insights into which home improvements add the most value and when to call in a pro.

Reach out today at bsgluxuryhomes.com to connect with Palm Springs real estate experts who can help you protect your investment and elevate your living experience.