A house that needs TLC can be a great investment. That is, if you’re up to putting in the sweat equity.

Pro: Great deals!

Buying a house that needs work can help you save big on your house payment. An as-is property can be had for a lower price point than a newer property that’s move-in ready.

Con: Endless construction

DIY home rehab is a lifestyle – are you willing to go all in? Your house will be a work in progress for months, possibly years. Parts of your house will be unusable for periods of time, and the pressure to get it done can be a source of stress.

Pro: You may qualify!

Check your area for homeowner programs. Some cities, towns and counties offer low-interest loans and grants that make home repairs more affordable. The federal government also has renovation mortgage programs for certain borrowers.

Con: Unexpected problems

Get ready – some projects are cursed. For example, you rip out the fiberglass shower, only to uncover serious problems with the plumbing and mold. Before your start each project, you’ll want to think ahead to plan B if things don’t go to plan.

Pro: The satisfaction of doing it yourself!

When it’s all done, nothing beats the satisfaction of transforming a house from dreary to dazzling. You’ll pick up new skills along the way, and it will be customized to your preferences and hobbies. And if you’re fortunate, you’ll achieve a nice uptick in home value when you’re ready to sell.

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No need to spend thousands on home improvement projects. These fixes will make a huge difference in your life at little to no cost.

Put cleaning on autopilot

Stop wasting your weekend catching up on chores. By setting aside 20 minutes each day to clean one or two rooms, you get time back on your days off.

Declutter your storage spaces

Sometimes, the best thing you can add to a room is empty space — it eliminates distractions and improves flow. Start by decluttering your closets and drawers and the rest will come, because you’ll gain extra storage.

Make your handyman list

Take stock in all the little fixes that need doing around the house. Things like caulking the shower, painting the front door, or replacing the broken hardware on that window will make your house more functional.

Clean out nooks and crannies

Target the less-obvious areas where gunk and dust collect. Pull out the stove and fridge. Clear the dust and lint buildup from your dryer vent and bathroom exhaust fan. Give your utility room a sweeping and mopping.

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