As we’re coming to the end of February, we’ve started thinking of all the odd jobs around the home we want sorted out in the next couple of months. It’s the perfect time of year to get them done!

As DIY jobs often feel like a chore, many of us end up paying other people to do them – and we often end up paying much more than necessary. If you haven’t done much DIY before, home improvements can seem like a scary prospect. But if you take it slowly and read up about what it is you need to do, you may find it easier than you think.

Whether your bedroom needs a new lick of paint or a few of your kitchen tiles need replacing, you could save a lot of money by doing the job yourself.

Take a look at these money saving tips that’ll help you stick to a budget when doing odd DIY jobs around the house…

Watch some “How-to” videos – you can easily sort out all of those small DIY jobs you’ve put off in the past without splashing the cash just by watching some helpful videos on YouTube. From fixing leaky taps to putting up a new fence, you’ll find a video for every DIY job imaginable. You’ll learn a lot just by watching a professional do it himself, and the best bit is you don’t have to pay anything to watch!

Check where’s cheapest when buying materials – before heading off to the big industrial DIY shops, why not check out your local, independent DIY store because chances are they’ll have everything you need for half the price. By browsing in different stores before buying the materials you need you’re more likely to find some great bargains and keep the cost of your home improvements down.

Take your time when painting – if the job you need doing is painting a room in the house, make sure you don’t rush. If you chuck some paint in a tray, grab a roller and start speed painting, you’re going to end up making more work for yourself in the long run. It’ll cost you money to sort out splashes of paint on the carpet and furniture, and streaky lines on the walls. If you plan the job and take your time you’ve got an increased chance of getting it right the first time.

Remember, you can’t do it all – there are some jobs that you’ll be unable to do and will need a professional for – anything that involves electricity or gas for example. Although for these bigger projects you will have to pay someone else, that doesn’t mean you won’t still be able to save money. Make sure you talk to as many friends and family members as possible as they may have some great recommendations, and always get at least three quotes before making your decision on who to let take on the job.

Accidents can sometimes happen with DIY jobs so make sure your insurance policy covers you before you start drilling holes around the house; it’s better to be safe than sorry so just give your insurance company a quick call to double check.