9 Home Repairs That Are Shockingly Better Done by Amateurs

May 26, 2025

When something breaks at home, the first instinct is often to call a professional. But what if we told you that some home repairs are not only doable by amateurs, but sometimes even better when handled that way? That’s right—some jobs don’t require years of experience or a contractor’s license. With the right tools, a bit of YouTube research, and some patience, homeowners can often get better, faster, and cheaper results than hiring out. Here are nine home repairs where going DIY might actually be your best move.

A Pro Isn’t Always Needed For Home Repairs

1. Patching Small Drywall Holes

If you’ve ever hung a picture or had a doorknob bang into the wall, you’ve likely ended up with a small hole in your drywall. This is one of the easiest home repairs to handle yourself, and pros will often charge hundreds for something you can do in 30 minutes. All you need is a small tub of spackle, a putty knife, sandpaper, and paint. Even slightly larger holes can be repaired using drywall patches or mesh tape. The key is smoothing it well and matching the paint, which is totally within reach for the average homeowner.

2. Fixing a Running Toilet

A constantly running toilet can waste gallons of water a day, not to mention drive you crazy with the sound. But the fix is usually simple: replacing a flapper, float, or fill valve—parts that cost under $20. There’s no need to call a plumber when you can pop into a hardware store and fix the issue in under an hour. The inside of a toilet tank looks intimidating, but it’s mostly modular and designed for easy maintenance. With just a little guidance, this is one of the most satisfying fixes you can do yourself.

3. Unclogging Drains

Hiring a plumber for a clogged sink can cost you well over $100, but in most cases, the fix is something you can DIY with a drain snake or a plunger. Even the good old baking soda and vinegar trick, followed by boiling water, can work wonders. If you’re comfortable removing the P-trap under your sink, you can often clear out the clog completely in minutes. It’s messy, yes—but incredibly empowering and easy on your wallet. Skip the chemical drain cleaners—they often do more harm than good.

4. Replacing a Light Fixture

Changing out a light fixture might seem like a job for an electrician, but it’s one of the safer and simpler home repairs for a DIYer. Turn off the circuit breaker, double-check that the power is off, and you can swap out most ceiling or wall fixtures with basic tools. Most new light fixtures even come with easy-to-follow instructions. As long as you match the wires correctly and secure everything well, you’re golden. Just make sure to use a sturdy ladder and work with care.

5. Caulking Your Bathroom or Kitchen

Over time, the caulk around your tub or sink can get moldy, cracked, or worn out. Replacing it yourself is easy, cheap, and can make your space feel brand new. A caulking gun and a $5 tube of waterproof sealant go a long way. The trick is to remove the old caulk completely and apply the new bead cleanly—there are even tools that help shape it perfectly. It’s a high-impact improvement that costs little and doesn’t require a pro.

6. Fixing a Stuck or Squeaky Door

Whether your door is sticking or making noise, chances are a little DIY action will solve the problem. Squeaky hinges usually just need a spritz of WD-40 or a dab of petroleum jelly. If the door is sticking, tightening the screws or sanding the edge slightly will often do the trick. These are basic maintenance tasks that any homeowner can master with minimal effort. You don’t need a carpenter for this—you just need five spare minutes.

7. Touching Up Paint

Hiring a painter for small scuffs, scratches, or faded areas is overkill and costly. Most of the time, a small brush and leftover paint from the original job are all you need. Paint pens and sample-size containers from hardware stores make it even easier. The key is prep: clean the area, use painter’s tape if needed, and apply with a steady hand. Done right, you’ll never notice the difference.

8. Installing Shelves or Curtain Rods

It might seem like a precision task, but installing shelves or curtain rods is completely beginner-friendly. With a tape measure, level, drill, and a little planning, you’ll be hanging like a pro. Wall anchors make it easy, even if you’re not hitting studs, and modern tools take the guesswork out of leveling. This project is especially rewarding because it instantly improves your space. And unlike hiring a handyman, you won’t be billed by the hour.

9. Replacing Air Filters and Smoke Detector Batteries

These maintenance tasks are often neglected simply because they’re out of sight, but they’re also incredibly easy to do. Swapping your HVAC air filter improves air quality and energy efficiency, while fresh smoke detector batteries can literally save your life. Mark your calendar to do both every few months. These are low-cost tasks that help avoid high-cost emergencies. No professional needed—just a ladder and a little responsibility.

Don’t Sell Yourself Short—You’re Handier Than You Think

Many homeowners underestimate their ability to fix things around the house. The truth is, you don’t need a professional license to tackle a lot of these everyday maintenance tasks. With a few basic tools, a little patience, and a quick online tutorial, you can knock out repairs faster—and for a fraction of the cost. DIY isn’t just about saving money—it’s about gaining confidence in your space.

Have you tackled a home repair yourself that saved you serious money? Or did you ever hire a pro for something you wish you’d just done yourself? Share your experience in the comments below!

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