Personal Finance
6 DIY Home Improvements That Add Value — And When It’s Better to Call a Pro
Paint refreshes, new fixtures and simple kitchen updates are easy DIY wins — but major upgrades often need pros and smarter financing.
Homeowners love a good before-and-after moment, and plenty of upgrades can boost comfort and value without calling in a crew. But some projects cross into territory where you need permits, licensed pros or a more flexible way to manage the cost. Knowing which is which can help you avoid surprises — and make confident decisions about your home.
Here’s a look at DIY-friendly improvements you can tackle on your own, plus when it’s smarter to bring in the experts.
1. Paint Refreshes (DIY-Friendly)
Few upgrades deliver a bigger impact for less money. A fresh coat of paint can brighten rooms, modernize tired spaces and even boost resale appeal. Prep well, choose quality supplies and work in sections for a cleaner finish.
2. New Cabinet Hardware (DIY-Friendly)
Swapping knobs and pulls is one of the simplest ways to update a kitchen or bathroom without touching the structure. It’s quick, affordable and instantly elevates older cabinetry.
3. Lighting Upgrades (DIY-Friendly… Sometimes)
Replacing a basic fixture with another of the same type is usually manageable. But if your project involves new wiring, recessed lighting or expanded circuits, a licensed electrician is the safest route — especially in older homes.
4. Backsplash Installs (DIY-Friendly for Beginners)
Peel-and-stick tiles make it easy to give your kitchen a fresh look without committing to a full renovation. Traditional tile is still possible for DIYers — just measure carefully, use a level and don’t rush the grout work.
5. Bathroom Updates (Better Left to Pros)
Updating a faucet or adding shelving is simple enough. But plumbing inside walls, shower installs or anything involving waterproofing should be done by a pro. Mistakes here can be costly and hard to undo.
6. Structural Kitchen Remodels (Definitely Call a Pro)
Once you’re moving walls, rerouting electrical or updating pipes, professional help becomes essential. These projects often require permits, inspections and coordinated trades to get right — and they usually come with larger price tags.
When DIY Stops Making Sense — And How to Manage Bigger Costs
Some renovations go beyond what’s safe or realistic to handle on your own. But that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach. Many homeowners assume the only way to fund major improvements is with high monthly payments or a traditional second mortgage. That’s not always the case.
Unison’s Equity Sharing Agreement works differently. It isn’t your ordinary second mortgage or loan–instead, it lets you leverage your home’s future equity with no monthly payments required, no interest charges and the ability to keep full ownership. The term is 30-years, but homeowners can end the agreement earlier if they sell their home or buy out the agreement. It gives homeowners room to take on the upgrades that matter most.
Give Your Home the Upgrade It Deserves
Start small where you can, and call in the pros when the project demands it. With the right financing — and the added benefit of keeping the full value of your improvements — even major renovations can feel more manageable.
Ready to take the next step? Get a personalized estimate to see how Unison’s Equity Sharing Agreement could work for you.
Sponsored by Unison. This is promotional content and not financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Important Disclosures: The Unison Equity Sharing Agreement is offered by Unison Agreement Corp. and is not a loan. Available in select states only (currently 26 states ; see unison.com for details and eligibility). No monthly payments or interest charges, but a 3.9% origination fee plus standard third-party closing costs (e.g., appraisal, title, escrow) apply. Pre-qualification involves a soft credit check (no impact to your credit score) and income verification to ensure you can comfortably continue owning your home. Credit scores 620+ (mid-FICO) welcome. Unison shares in your home’s future change in value (appreciation or depreciation)—not your existing equity—and both parties benefit if the home value rises or share in losses if it declines. Payment occurs upon sale, buyout, refinance, or after 30 years. Home values can fluctuate; consult a financial advisor. Terms subject to change.
