We’ve all seen them. The mystery switch that controls nothing. The tile that ends an inch too soon. The “rustic” feature wall that’s… sticky? These are the DIY projects that haunt real estate agents, terrify buyers, and make home inspectors earn every penny.
If you want to repel buyers faster than you can say “open house,” just try one of these. Or, keep reading so you know what not to do.
1. Tiling Showers or Floors Like You’re on HGTV
Crooked tiles, elevation changes (I may have done this before), wonky grout lines, and cracked corners are a dead giveaway that a homeowner went rogue. Bonus points if water is pooling where it shouldn’t.
👷♀️ Instead: DIY a backsplash. Leave floor and shower tile to the pros—waterproofing is not a learn-as-you-go situation.
2. Removing a Wall Without Checking If It’s Load-Bearing
A more “open” concept is great… until the ceiling starts to sag and panic sets in.
👷♀️ Instead: Consult a contractor or structural engineer before demo. Even widening or changing the shape of a doorway can feel transformative without risking structural damage.
3. DIY Electrical Work
Loose wires, exposed outlets, flickering lights—it’s not a haunted house (I don't think), it’s just DIY gone wrong.
👷♀️ Instead: Update light fixtures or add smart bulbs. But if you’re touching wiring, call a licensed electrician.
4. Painting Everything—Including the Countertops and Bathtubs
Yes, there are countertop and bathtub paints. No, they don’t hold up well. Buyers (and their agents) can always tell, primarily because of rough surfaces and uneven color.
👷♀️ Instead: Paint the cabinets or vanity for a fresh look. Countertops deserve better than a brush and a prayer.
5. Installing Laminate Flooring with Gaps and Bubbles
DIY flooring that snaps together still requires prep—and skipping it shows. Think: uneven edges, tripping hazards, and mystery squeaks.
👷♀️ Instead: Hire out the install or stick to smaller flooring projects, like closets, pantries, or laundry rooms, if you’re practicing.
6. Adding a Faux Fireplace or Built-Ins with No Plan
Crooked trim, awkward placement, weird scale—these DIYs go from cozy to chaotic fast.
👷♀️ Instead: Stage with furniture to create the same effect. Leave permanent features to someone who owns a level and a vision board.
7. Slapping Up Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Without Measuring
Great in theory, bad in execution. Misaligned seams and puckering paper are a fast pass to a buyer’s “Nope” list. All they see is the $$$ dollar signs racking up in what it would cost to remove the wallpaper.
👷♀️ Instead: Use peel-and-stick in small spaces (backs of bookshelves really add a great pop of color) and take your time—or hire a pro installer for bold statements.
8. Replacing Cabinet Hardware… Poorly
Nothing says “I tried” like cabinet pulls at 6 different heights and angles.
👷♀️ Instead: Use a hardware template tool or drill guide. It’s a cheap purchase that prevents a lot of visual chaos.
9. Poorly Done Paint Jobs (Especially on Trim or Ceilings)
Paint on the ceiling, globs on the baseboards, or uneven roller lines tell buyers you’re not a detail person and they immediately start wondering what other details you didn't pay attention to.
👷♀️ Instead: Prep properly, use painter’s tape, and don’t rush. And please… paint test your color before committing.
10. Trying to “Fix” Plumbing Issues Yourself
From jerry-rigged sinks to mystery leaks under the vanity, plumbing mistakes lead to mold, water damage, and inspection fails.
👷♀️ Instead: YouTube is great—for understanding what not to do. For actual fixes, call the plumber.
Buyers can, and often do, appreciate charm. What they don’t love? Evidence that a home might fall apart the moment they move in. DIY can absolutely be a great way to improve your space—but the key is knowing your limits (and knowing when to call in backup).
Not sure if a project adds value or detracts from it? I’ve walked through thousands of homes with buyers (10,102 to be exact) — I can tell you exactly what gets eye rolls and what gets offers.
Want to update your home without losing the future buyer? Let’s chat. I’ve got great resources, trusted pros, and advice you can actually use.