Affordable Home Repairs Are Possible—Here’s How

Making repairs and improvements to your home can be expensive. Home projects often come with hefty price tags, from fixing leaky faucets to renovating the kitchen.

However, you can reduce home repair costs and complete projects on a budget in many ways. With some savvy planning and DIY spirit, you can take on home repairs affordably. Read on for the best tips and tricks for saving money on home repairs and improvements.

8 Tips to Save Big on Home Fixes

Owning a home comes with its joys and responsibilities, and one of those responsibilities is the inevitable need for home repairs. However, they don't have to drain your bank account. Below are some of the best ways to save money on home repairs without compromising quality or safety.

1. Research Costs Thoroughly

The first step to saving money on home repairs is thoroughly researching expected project costs. You should gather quotes from at least three contractors to compare rates for any major renovation work.

Additionally, you should check home improvement store websites for the average costs of materials needed for DIY repairs. Understanding the typical pricing range for a given home repair project will allow you to budget wisely and identify any inflated contractor bids.

2. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts

Keep an eye out for sales, coupons, and other discounts at home improvement stores when tackling DIY repairs. Signing up for store rewards programs and loyalty cards can help you save money on supplies. Buy materials for projects when they are marked down for clearance sales or seasonal promotions.

Shop discount and overstock outlets both online and in-person to score deals on supplies for repairs and renovations. Take advantage of coupons, rebates, and other savings opportunities whenever possible to reduce costs. Timing purchases strategically around sales events makes home repairs much more affordable.

3. Rent Tools Instead of Buying

Consider renting tools for home repair projects instead of purchasing them. It's often cheaper and eliminates the need to store equipment you may rarely use. Plus, you can access professional-grade tools.

Shop around at hardware stores, tool rental outfits, and even sharing sites like NeighborGoods to find the lowest rates on renting tools. Just make sure to return rentals on time to avoid extra charges. Renting equipment for the short term is a simple way to save significantly on home repairs.

4. Repurpose Materials Already on Hand

Take stock of what usable materials you already have before buying supplies for home repairs. Often, old household items, leftover materials from past projects, and other items already around the home can be repurposed in a new way. Getting creative with repurposing eliminates the need to purchase as many new materials.

Before purchasing new items, consider repurposing old ones. Dressers can become bathroom vanities, kitchen cabinets can be updated with paint and hardware, and leftover building materials can be used for repairs.

5. Learn to DIY Small Repairs

Minor home repairs like drywall patching, leaky faucet replacement, and fixing stuck drawers can be successfully done by DIY. Free online tutorials are available for basic home repair topics. Learning DIY repair skills can save you money.

Cultivating your skills to tackle minor plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and appliance fixes personally can prevent the need for a handyman's services. Start with easy, low-risk tasks to grow your confidence in your repair capabilities.

If you find yourself in a bind, your local hardware store is a great resource for advice. Over time, as your skills improve, you can undertake more challenging DIY repairs and reduce expenses.

6. Compare Contractor Quotes Carefully

Never hire the first contractor you find for major home repairs—get multiple quotes to compare pricing. When examining contractor quotes, look closely at the proposed materials and work, not just the bottom-line cost. Make sure bids accurately reflect the scope of work needed, with details on labor, timeline, included materials, and other specifics.

An excessively low bid may indicate poor quality materials, inexperienced workers, or shortcuts being taken, while inflated quotes should also be viewed with caution. Hiring a contractor should depend on understanding all expected costs, quality of work, and credentials—not just the price.

7. Use Credit Card Rewards

Take a moment to review your credit cards and see if they offer rewards programs that grant you the opportunity to receive statement credits while shopping at home improvement stores or settling utility bills. Whenever you make qualifying home maintenance and repair purchases, you might earn extra points or cash back through these programs.

A credit card that offers bonuses at hardware stores, gas stations, or restaurants could help you save money during an extensive home renovation project. Look at the special perks your existing cards provide to strategically take advantage of rewards.

8. Barter Services

Bartering services is an age-old, money-saving trick. Consider trading your services if you have skillsets or access to equipment that others could benefit from. For example, you can offer fence repair to a landscaper in exchange for tree trimming services. Or provide plumbing fixes to an electrician who will rewire a room for you in return.

Bartering allows you to essentially trade home repair services without paying labor costs. Post online or use apps and sites like Bunz to find potential barter buddies nearby. Getting creative with non-cash trades for services provides a frugal way to take care of home repairs and improvements.

Save a Bundle on Home Repairs

Home repairs don't have to be a financial burden. With a proactive approach to maintenance, a willingness to tackle certain repairs yourself, and a savvy approach to shopping around and investing in the right upgrades, you can keep your home in top condition without breaking the bank.

Remember, the key is to balance cost-saving measures and knowing when it's best to bring in the professionals. By following these strategies, you can ensure that your home remains a haven without draining your wallet.

MJ Brioso, Editorial Staff

MJ Brioso is a content writer who takes pleasure in creating compelling and informative articles about health and lifestyle. During her free time, you'll likely find her indulging in shopping or passionately exploring the world of fragrances.