When to DIY and When to Hire a House Flipping Contractor

When you start flipping houses, one of the biggest questions you will face is whether to handle renovations yourself or hire house-flipping contractors. 

While DIY work can save money, professional contractors bring expertise, efficiency, and reliability to complex projects.

House flipping is big business. According to some estimates, home improvement spending in the U.S. will reach $477 billion by the third quarter of 2025, with a significant portion attributed to real estate investors flipping properties. 

However, not all of these house-flipping projects will turn a profit. Doing the work yourself can save cash, but unprofessional results can sometimes become far costlier than hiring professionals. 

When can you tackle projects, and when is it time to hire a house-flipping contractor?

When to DIY in a house flip

Skilled DIY tasks can reduce costs and increase profit margins. However, not all projects are suitable for DIY work. 

Here are some tasks that house flippers can typically handle themselves.

1. Cosmetic upgrades

Cosmetic improvements are some of the easiest and most cost-effective projects that can be done without professional help. 

These include:

• Painting: Interior and exterior painting are relatively simple and can save thousands in labor costs.
• Flooring installation: Installing laminate or vinyl plank flooring is often manageable with basic tools.
• Landscaping: Simple tasks like mowing, mulching, and planting flowers can improve curb appeal at minimal cost.
• Minor drywall repairs: Patching small holes and repainting walls can be done with limited experience.

2. Light fixture and hardware replacement

Replacing outdated fixtures, such as light fixtures, cabinet handles, and faucets, can be a quick and inexpensive way to modernize a home. 

Lighting is typically safe for DIY as long as the work does not require electrical rewiring or plumbing modifications.

3. Demolition work

Removing old carpets, tearing out cabinets, and stripping wallpaper can be done without hiring a contractor. 

However, caution is needed when dealing with load-bearing walls or older materials containing asbestos or lead paint.

4. Cleaning and staging

Deep-cleaning the property and staging it for resale are vital final steps. While time and effort are required, they do not typically justify hiring a contractor.

When to hire a house flipping contractor

Certain flip projects might require professional expertise to comply with local building codes so safety, efficiency, and compliance standards are met. 

Here are situations where hiring house-flipping contractors is the most efficient choice.

1. Structural work

Modifications involving a home’s foundation, load-bearing walls, or framing should be left to professionals. 

Mistakes in structural work can lead to safety hazards, failed inspections, and costly repairs.

2. Electrical and plumbing projects

Electrical and plumbing work are heavily regulated and require permits in most areas. 

A licensed contractor is necessary for:

• Rewiring the home or upgrading an electrical panel
• Running new plumbing lines or installing major fixtures
• Replacing HVAC systems or ductwork

Hiring a professional ensures compliance with code requirements and reduces the risk of costly rework.

3. Roofing and exterior work

Roof replacements, major repairs, and siding installation require specialized skills and equipment. Hiring a professional means better odds that the job is completed correctly and that warranties remain valid.

4. Permitted work

Many major renovations require permits, including:

• Adding or modifying electrical and plumbing systems
• Structural changes or additions
• Major renovations that alter the home’s footprint

House-flipping contractors are familiar with local permitting requirements—they have experience with the paperwork and inspections needed to ensure compliance.

5. Large-scale projects with tight deadlines

Flipping houses is time-sensitive, and delays can eat into profits. 

Hiring a contractor for large-scale projects, such as kitchen or bathroom remodels, can keep the renovation on schedule. 

Professionals can complete work faster than DIY, allowing the property to hit the market sooner.

Cost considerations when hiring house flipping contractors

Hiring professionals increases renovation costs, but strategic planning can keep expenses under control. Consider the following cost factors:

1. Labor costs

Labor rates vary by region and project type. 

On average:

• Electricians and plumbers charge $50–$150 per hour.
• General contractors charge 10%–20% of the total project cost.
• Painters charge $2–$6 per square foot.

2. Materials and supplies

Contractors can often access wholesale pricing on materials, potentially offsetting some labor costs. However, flippers should compare contractor-provided materials with retail options to find the best deal.

3. Contingency budget

Unexpected issues can arise during renovations. A contingency budget of at least 10-20% of the total project cost helps cover unforeseen expenses without jeopardizing the flip.

Pro tip: Flippers could also consider hybrid approaches, such as:

• Doing demolition and prep work themselves before hiring professionals for installation
• Acting as a general contractor by coordinating subcontractors instead of hiring a full-service company
• Handling final cleanup and staging to cut labor costs

How to find reliable house-flipping contractors

Hiring the right contractor is important for keeping you on budget and schedule. 

Let’s look at how to find and vet potential house-flipping contractors for your investment.

1. Get multiple bids

Request at least three estimates for major projects to compare pricing and services. Do not choose a contractor solely based on the lowest bid.

2. Check licensing and insurance

Is the contractor licensed, insured, and bonded? This protects against liability for property damage, injuries, and unfinished work.

3. Read reviews and ask for references

Look for online reviews and ask the contractor for references from previous house-flipping projects. 

Speaking with past clients provides insight into reliability and work quality.

4. Review the contract carefully

Ensure the contract includes:

• A detailed scope of work
• Project timelines and deadlines
• Payment schedules
• Warranty information

Contractors who demand significant upfront payments or refuse to provide written agreements should be avoided.

House-flipping contractors: The bottom line

Knowing when to DIY and when to hire house-flipping contractors is a major factor in any flipping project. 

Tackling minor upgrades can save money, but hiring professionals for complex projects ensures safety, compliance, and efficiency. Often, the key is finding the ideal balance between the two. 

Be realistic about your skills and know your budget and timeline constraints. Beginner investors who are new to flipping should talk to others who have done this. 

With the right insights, you can make informed decisions that maximize returns while minimizing risks. 

Home-flipping financing available

Park Place Finance hard money loans are ideal for many house-flipping projects—for both purchases and renovations! 

Reach out to Park Place Finance right now and tell us your loan scenario.