percentage saved by do it yourself

[Shawn Pottschmidt]

I read a lot about hiring a contractor.  Has anyone ever calculated how much they saved by not using contractors and did most of the rehab work themselves? Or the real question is what percent of costs is going to contractor labor?

[Kyle Hipp]

labor will run about 1 to 2 times materials as a general guide. I do the vast majority of my own improvements and repairs. I have saved tens of thousands over the years between siding and decks, and garages and additions along with basic repaints and handyman work. I would say a good $25,000 per year for me in savings.