Let's start with the fact that I am not a professional electrician or handyman.  Actually, I am a corporate professional by day and a first time home owner.  Over the last 3 years I have learned quite a bit and decided that it might be worth sharing.  This is also not a "how to" guide.  This is more of a YOU CAN DO IT!  Some of my friends (male/female) wouldn't dream of doing this stuff until they knew I had.  It's a fact, as a single female home owner it helps to be a little handy.

If you can read directions, you can do these projects: Install a thermostat -Update light fixtures-Install a key lock set-Assemble an Entertainment or Media Center - Repair a hole in the wall- Replace a toilet seat - Replace the kit inside the toilet tank.  I've done all of these simply by reading instructions and googling the internet for additional information.  While my first try may not have yielded perfect results, I saved enought money to make it worth the time invested.  Here are a few examples: I was quoted $200 - $300 for parts and labor to replace my (single AC unit) thermostat.  I purchased a thermostat for $50 and installed it in an hour.  Had I done it correctly the first time it would have taken 30 minutes.  Installation of bathroom and kitchen light fixtures were quoted at $75 - $150 respectively.  If you are installing one light fixture not a big deal.  I replaced 2 bathroom, 1 kitchen and a dining room chandelier.

I have also added a door sweep and adhered a 2x4 to the garage floor to keep rodents out of the storage unit.  However, there weren't any directions just advice from a  helpful sales rep in the local home improvement superstore. 

If you have never purchased tools the following items are both helpful and useful:

Hammer, Pliers, Manual screwdrivers (flat and phillips) and Power screwdriver

Step ladder and Extension/Specialty ladder (I have the Werner).

FYI: The Werner ladder is heavy but comes in handy when on steps or reaching high ceilings and/or the roof. 

Paint brushes and brush cleaning solution

12V Power Drill and bits or a Drill starter kit mine includes (drill bits, stud finder, extra battery and charger)

Outdoor flourescent light

Outdoor (orange) Ext cord

Note: Having tools on hand also makes it alot easier to get someone else to assist..

Again , I have no training or special inclination towards do it yourself projects just a desire to get it done and save money.  I hope you've found this helpful.

Important side note, always get at least 3 quotes for projects and/or services over $100.  You'd be amazed at how prices/fees can vary.  This is also true of vehicle maintenance.  Some examples of home services include but are not limited to: carpet cleaning, sprinkler system installation, painting, cleaning of ventilation system, wallpaper hanging, or adding a deck.  I've done all of the aforementioned with the exception of adding a deck.  I did however get a few quotes on a deck cover for the existing deck.  FYI, a deck without a cover is virtually useless in the hot Texas summers.  Came to the decision that there wasn't enough equity in the house to make the investment.