One in Three Regret DIYing a Home Improvement Project, Zillow Digs

Seattle, WA, December 1, 2015—Three quarters of homeowners completed a do-it-yourself (DIY) project in the past three years. However, nearly 40% of them wish they hadn't, according to a new survey from home design site Zillow Digs.

Attempting to add or expand a room to a home, such as a bathroom or bedroom, was the biggest DIY regret among homeowners surveyed, with more than half of respondents (53%) unhappy with some aspect of the project. Homeowners had fewest regrets around minor projects like replacing light fixtures or cabinet hardware. Less than 20% of homeowners regretted taking on those projects.  

While many people choose to tackle home improvement projects themselves to save money, nearly a quarter of those surveyed said their DIY project went over budget. This was especially true for larger-scale renovations, like building a new deck or refinishing a basement. Instead, DIYers were more likely to stay within budget on smaller projects such as painting or replacing plumbing fixtures.

Forty-three percent of homeowners who replaced or reinstalled new carpeting regretted their choice; and 42% of homeowners who refinished or installed new hardwood floors felt remorse. Of those who retiled a floor or shower, 37% regretted their decision to DIY.

Zillow Digs surveyed homeowners from around the country to find which popular DIY home improvement projects people regretted the most and least. The survey also identified which projects homeowners were most likely to go over budget, with and without professional help.