Can You Fix It? Yes You Can!

In addition to the benefits mentioned below, I have found that people who can do the work themselves tend to keep up with the regular maintenance all houses require, rather than waiting until they're ready to sell and facing a three-page list of minor repairs, half of which have gotten worse because they weren't dealt with right away. You might even consider teaching your teenagers how to do some of these things before they leave home!

"These are skills every home owner should master to save lots of money over the years. Most can be tackled without fancy tools, although it helps to have a variable-speed power drill.
Replace a door lock.
Change furnace and air conditioning filters.
Find a stud in wall.
Learn to install wall anchors.
Hang a ceiling fan.
Drive drywall screws (to repair drywall).
Master a caulking gun.
Replace the flapper ball in the toilet.

Here are some books you can read for more information on home do-it-yourself projects:
"The Reader's Digest Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual." First published in 1973, it was last updated in 2005. A great all-around book.
"Home Depot's Home Improvement 1-2-3" (Meredith Books, 2003, $34.95). Clear, helpful visuals.
"Home & Garden Television's Complete Fix-It" (Time Life, 2000, $29.95)."

For the Realtor magazine article: http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/pages/News2008052006?OpenDocument