Teach yourself DIY

Before you go on a course of buy books use the internet. You can often get the same information for free. Go on to some DIY sites and work out what areas you think you are going to be able to do yourself. Be realistic, if you have not done DIY before then we suggest you stick to decorating, putting up shelves and perhaps some tiling. Don’t start trying to re-wire the house or build a new extension without the appropriate training!

Once you have decided what areas you might be able to do learn as much as possible about them. Mistakes can be costly so make sure you know what you are doing before you start.

When it comes to buying the materials (paints, tiles etc..) shop around. Use the internet to establish best prices and then you know whether your local store is competitive. If you have a friend in the trade then see if they can help. Even if you have a friend in an unrelated profession they may have a card to a wholesalers like Makro that you can borrow. Before you buy your materials make sure you get the right quantities. Having gallons of paint or reams of wallpaper lying around is not going to help your bank account.

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