When it comes to home improvements, the phrase 'if you want something doing, do it yourself' is not always the right answer.

999today looks at some areas where a spot of DIY can do wonders for your property, but also picks out some instances where the temptation for DIY should be left well alone.

Do It Yourself when...

• The paintwork on the front of the house is peeling. First impressions are very important, and a fresh lick of paint to the outside of window and door frames is a relatively simple job which can add a huge amount to the appeal of your home.
• Your décor is multi-coloured. Neutral colours are more appealing for prospective buyers as it provides them with a blank canvas with which to work with, and this will give them a better idea of what they may want to do with the place.
• You are selling a property that is particularly appealing to first-time buyers, such as a one-bedroom flat for a newly married couple. First-time buyers are unlikely to have a budget for extra work, plus there's the extra hassle and, usually, a lack of experience.
• Part of the house is particularly out dated and sticks out noticeably. If one room is in poor condition compared to the rest of the house, do your best to bring it back in line and make it less obvious.
• There are structural problems. Potential buyers will be put off if this is highlighted in a survey of the property, and may pull out or have an opportunity to renegotiate price. Look for professional help if there are serious structural problems.

Leave it Alone when...

• You think the kitchen needs updating. The kitchen is one room that most buyers will want to re-design, and if you choose to do it yourself, your idea of what looks great might not fit with their idea. £10,000 spent on a new kitchen might only add £6-7,000 to the overall value of a property.
• Considering re-landscaping your garden. An overgrown garden might not be a massive deterrent for a potential purchaser, and trying to sort it out yourself could turn into a bit of a nightmare.
• The bathroom might need a re-vamp. Along with the kitchen, these are two areas where buyer's might see an opportunity to add value to a property. It's worth leaving any work for them to do – if you do it yourself, they might not see as much attraction in the property.
• Development might lead to over-development. It is possible to go over the top – extending a three bedroom semi-detached house into a small mansion may drive away buyers because it simply won't fit in with the surrounding environment.

The article When DIY becomes LIA originally appeared on 999 Today