DIY home improvement projects on Spokane homes for sale can be satisfying and productive, but our real estate agents know the dangers of biting off more than you can chew. Here's a list of home improvements that are better left to the professionals.

1. Foundation Repairs
   Filling a crack in the foundation with cement may seem like a simple job, but it has greater implications. The structural integrity of your home rests on the strength and stability of its foundation. However simple it looks on its face, a crack could be an indication of a more serious problem. Stay on the safe side and have a professional do a thorough inspection.
   
   
2. Roof Replacement
   Besides the obvious safety issues, replacing a roof has challenges beyond the skills of most amateurs. If the job isn't done with absolute precision, the flaws could lead to flooding and some additional problems. Also, since roof replacement takes place entirely outdoors, it's not the type of job that can be worked on a bit at a time.
   
   
3. Window Installation
   Just like roofs, windows are crucial for climate control and keep the elements from damaging your home. A professional will make sure windows are correctly installed with no gaps or leaks. 
   
   
4. Electrical Work
   As a rule of thumb, anything more complicated than changing a light bulb should be handled by a professional electrician. The dangers of electricity are two-fold. You run the risk of being electrocuted or possibly starting a fire that can grow out of control. A licensed electrician will complete the job safely and efficiently while ensuring there's no costly power drain.
   
   
5. Kitchen Remodels
   Minor fixes and improvements like changing cabinet hardware? Have at it. But if you get the itch to gut your kitchen and redo it from top to bottom, your next step should be getting recommendations for contractors. Your dreams are likely to surpass your skills, and you'll find yourself with a torn-up kitchen and no way out.
   
   
6. Plumbing Repairs
   Remember the classic game Mouse Trap? Just one missing or misplaced piece and the whole thing is useless. Plumbing is a lot like that. With all the pipes and tubes that need to be connected properly, you'll save yourself a lot of potential headaches if you call in a professional plumber.
   
   
7. Home Additions
   No matter how skilled a carpenter you are, a home addition requires a lot of moving pieces. The addition has to be integrated into the whole, so planning must take into consideration how the rest of the home will be affected. There are also permits and legal requirements that could shut you down before you even start if they're not handled correctly. Find an experienced contractor who has a good track record.
   
   
8. Tree Removal
   Gardening, mowing the lawn and other yard work can be relaxing. When it comes to removing trees, what you see is not what you get. Roots extend deep below the surface, and disturbing them could cause a ripple effect threatening other trees and plants or even your home. Due to their size and weight, working with trees is awkward and potentially dangerous.

Want more helpful home improvement tips? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Tomlinson.