There are some repairs even the handiest do-it-yourselfers shouldn't attempt. Unless you're a professional and you know what you're doing, you should steer clear of trying to fix air conditioning, furnaces and electrical repairs. Janice Papolos, author of The Virgin Homeowner, has some first-time tips for hiring and working with a professional.


What You Need to Know
  • Get several estimates.
  • Don't hire someone who just shows up at your doorstep.
  • Hire only licensed professionals.
  • Never pay more than one-third of the estimated cost up-front.
  • Don't pay for estimates.
Published 09/16/2002

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