🛠️ 4 Home Maintenance Tasks to Do Yourself—and 4 You Should Outsource

Owning a home in Colorado Springs means more than just enjoying those Pikes Peak views and cozy neighborhoods—it also means ongoing maintenance. But how do you decide what to tackle yourself and when to call in the pros?

Getting it right can save you money, reduce stress, and help keep your home in tip-top shape.

Here are four tasks you can confidently DIY, and four that are worth outsourcing to professionals for safety, quality, or long-term results.

✅ 4 Tasks You Can DIY

1. Change Your HVAC Filters

Changing filters every 1–3 months improves your air quality and helps your system run efficiently—especially important with our dry, dusty Colorado climate. It's easy, affordable, and can save you energy costs. 

2. Touch-Up Paint

Scuffed wall? Chipped trim? Grab a brush and refresh the space yourself. Just remember to plan for multiple coats and drying time. Touch-up paint is one of the easiest ways to make a home feel new again.

On a personal note, our trim hadn’t been touched up since our home was built in 2004—yes, 2004. I painted the doors four years ago and left the trim for “another day.” Well, that day finally came. It’s time-consuming work, but it completely changed the way our main floor looks and feels. I spent the better part of a day repainting all the trim downstairs. My knees may not be thrilled with me, but I love the result. Sometimes it really is the little things that make a big impact.

3. Minor Plumbing Fixes

Simple plumbing tasks like unclogging a drain, replacing a showerhead, or tightening a leaky faucet can often be done without calling a plumber. YouTube tutorials and a little confidence go a long way here.

4. Clean Up Yard Debris

Clearing leaves, twigs, and pine needles within 30 feet of your home reduces fire risk and protects your gutters. Plus, mowing your lawn yourself means free exercise and major savings.

One of my roles as a listing agent is to assist Sellers prior to listing on what items to tackle to help position their home to get top dollar. I not only give them a list of must-do, should-do, and if-you-can-get-around-to-it-do items, but I help them understand how these directly impact list price, days on market, which can directly impact how much they will net from the sale and their Days On Market.

Paint and yard cleanup are often on my should-do list. Last year, I had a seller who had a quick job transfer and didn't have the time to clean up the yard, so I brought in my landscaper. It looked fantastic, made a tremendous difference, but it cost him $880. Sometimes DIY can mean putting more in your pocket at closing.

🚫 4 Tasks to Leave to the Pros

1. Gutter Cleanings

Climbing ladders can be risky, especially with Colorado's gusty winds. Professionals have the equipment and experience to clean gutters safely and thoroughly.

2. Pest Control

Bugs, rodents, and termites are no joke. Over-the-counter sprays might work for minor problems, but infestations require expert treatment to prevent structural damage.

3. HVAC System Maintenance

Besides changing filters, your HVAC system should be inspected and tuned up by a licensed technician. Improper DIY maintenance can damage the system or void your warranty.

4. Roof and Siding Repairs

Loose shingles and cracked siding might look like quick fixes, but the risks of injury or improper sealing aren’t worth it. Let licensed roofers handle the job to preserve your home's curb appeal and resale value.

🏡 Final Thoughts from Nicole

If you’re a Colorado Springs homeowner, or planning to become one, it pays to know when to roll up your sleeves and when to reach out for help. Smart maintenance keeps your home in top condition and protects your investment for the long term.

And if you’re prepping to sell? I’m here to help you know where to invest your time and dollars for the greatest return. Let’s talk strategy!

For more tips and expert insight, you can read the original article from U.S. News & World Report:
👉 4 Home Maintenance Tasks to Do Yourself, and 4 to Outsource

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