You look around the house and easily find a million things that need to be done - big and small projects. You don't doubt your ability to handle the little things, but do you dare attempt the more complicated projects? Why not? Sure, you are going to have to use power tools to replace the kitchen countertop or hang a new entryway door, but don't let that intimidate you. As long as you are careful and learn to use the tools, doing it yourself can save you a lot of money.

Here's how:

1. First of all, you won't be paying yourself an hourly wage like you would a contractor. And, as we all know, the final bill is usually higher than that original estimate.

2. Yes, a contractor already has the necessary power tools to do the job, but you don't necessarily have to buy them to do it yourself. Many home improvement stores have rental counters where you can get the power tools you need for a day, a weekend or however long you need it. Of course, you can buy your own and when the next project arises, you already have what you need to start right away.

3. Time is money, right? Well, by hiring out the work, you are at the mercy of their timetable. How many contracted jobs do you know of that have been completed as originally scheduled? Do it yourself and you set the pace, work when you want and if it doesn't get done, you can only blame yourself.

4. There is great satisfaction in using your hands to fix up, repair or create something all on your own. Because you have a personal interest in the job, you will also make sure the job is done and done right. No one else will have the same pride and attention to detail that you will when it comes to your home. Doing it yourself will mean that you won't have to re-do the work of others.

5. It doesn't have to be complicated to make a big difference. You can do simple projects that don't cost a lot of money and don't require a special skill. In fact, with the help of power tools, as long as you know how to use them, you can complete the project and feel like a master craftsman when you're done.

One last note about doing it yourself is about safety. Sure, you can save money by taking of projects around the house with your reciprocating saw or your belt Sander, but if you don't know how to use it or use it correctly, the project can turn into a disaster. You're not really saving money if you have to take a trip to the hospital or you have to hire someone to come in and fix your mess.

So, before you start a project that involves power tools, make sure you know how to use it and implement the recommended safety guidelines that come with the equipment. The more you know about the equipment, the better your project will be.

In the end, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and happy by the money you saved.