Since the launch of HGTV, the DIY (Do It Yourself) projects have been all
the rage. Young and old DIYers have spent their weekend browsing the big
box home stores and searching for YouTube how-to videos. Then they
spend their free time doing everything from knocking down walls to adding
In-law Flats and She Shacks in the backyard. Yet, questions arise about
this trend and whether it will continue.
Surveys say that the biggest reason younger homeowners are pulling away
from DIY projects is due to “FOMU” – Fear of Messing Up. Unlike DIYers of
the past, this younger generation did not grow up watching their own
parents tinker around the house. This has prevented some of the natural
comfort levels of home repairs from taking hold. Reports show that 70% of
respondents have called a professional because they were unsure of
whether they could handle the job.
Another obstacle younger DIYers face is MPRS or Mid-Project Regret
Syndrome. This tends to affect those who take on too large a project or one
beyond their capabilities – whether it is a lack of skill, lack of money, or lack
of time. Depending on the progress made, this can end up costing almost
as much as using a professional from the start.
Regardless of these challenges and fears, the fact is that the DIY trend is
going strong. Manufacturers now offer simpler products that are easier to
assemble or build. Home improvement stores have also embraced these
consumers with more educational classes and advice. Given this, it
appears that DIYers will continue to plan weekend projects to beautify their
homes themselves for the foreseeable future.
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