Moved to a New City? Here’s How You Can Find DIY Professionals With Ease

82% of millennials polled said that they’re more likely to purchase a fixer upper rather than a new home, according to Bank of America Research’s sixth annual millennial home improvement survey. However, for those who have recently moved to a new city and need work done on their home, finding a professional can seem like a major challenge — especially if you need the work done as soon as possible. From the benefits of making new connections to how a simple app (or two) can help get the job done, here are just a few ideas worth considering.  

The power of an app

When looking for a good DIY professional in a new city, doing so can be as simple as downloading an app, which will give you instant access to a pool of people who can help. TaskRabbit is just one option, which offers a variety of services — including work around the house, like assembling furniture. With taskers having been interviewed in addition to having had their identity checked by the company, you can have peace of mind in knowing that you’ll be hiring a reliable individual. And, if you’re worried that your property may get damaged in the process, TaskRabbit also implements a “happiness pledge,” which involves potential compensation should something go awry. A similar app, Thumbtack, also offers a variety of services — including services like landscaping or plumbing, and even tells you the experience of a potential candidate. Through such platforms, you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of cutting out any guesswork, but you’ll be able to have the service you need on demand, ensuring that DIY tasks get done in a timely manner.

The benefits of making new connections

If you’ve just moved to a new city, finding a DIY professional can feel especially challenging if you haven’t made any new friends or connections yet — something that can affect both you and your children negatively when it comes to mental health. In fact, a study of 50,000 children carried out by researchers at Queen's University Belfast found that kids who moved multiple times throughout their childhood are more likely to experience mental health issues. While staying in touch with their old friends can help, ensuring that they’re able to make new friends and be social in the new city is essential. By getting out and active in community events or through local sports teams, you can do just that — though it’s also a great way to become more sociable yourself, too. That said, making connections is a great way to not only get your children out and make new friends, but can help connect you with new friends and/or individuals that can point you in the direction of trusted and reliable DIY professionals, too.

Going by word of mouth

Aside from making new friends and using apps to find DIY professionals in your new city, relying on word of mouth is another valuable resource worth looking into and can lead you to quality, local professionals. Getting acquainted with and asking your neighbors is a great place to start, as they may be able to refer you to someone directly that they (or someone they know) have had experience with. Joining online resource groups for your city on social media can also be a valuable resource, and could help by connecting you with experienced DIY pros as well, in addition to allowing you to reach out and post specifically what you’re looking for. 

Finding a DIY professional when you’ve recently moved to a new city can seem nearly impossible, especially if you still don’t really know anyone yet. However, by utilizing resources like apps, making new connections, and simply asking your neighbors, you’re sure to find someone in no time.