Paint is Fine - Even then chances are you won't do such a bad job after all. Read an article or two about prepping the place, use good quality paint with a finish depending on the room you are painting and then paint in large W's until you're done. Eggshell finish is popular in kitchens and high traffic areas as it is easier to wipe clean. Matt finishes are more suited for serene areas like bedrooms.

The people behind the work in such shows are experts; professionals in their field with years of experience. They can do things faster and better than an average person and if things go wrong, they also know how to make them right. When planning home improvement projects, keep your expectations real as far as budget and time considerations go as well.

Flooring Needs Help - Flooring is one home improvement project better left to the professionals or at least done with someone you know and trust. If you want to sell your home soon and feel the vinyl flooring in the kitchen has to go, do take on the home improvement project but after you have done some research.

Home improvement shows boast of the latest faux paint techniques and the hottest colors for the season. However, the green you like for your master bedroom may not appeal to prospective homeowners. If you do have hot pink bedroom walls for your daughter, tone them down or make them neutral as well. This is because new owners may not have a daughter who will use that room and they may want to move in to something that requires minimum effort.

The designers on the show are experts themselves plus they have a lot of help from back up crew and the like so they can delegate tasks and get more done in less time.

You might have saved some money attempting this home improvement project on your own, but the cost of replacing a top of the line stainless steel refrigerator may just not have been worth it.

Home improvement shows are great but keep them as the inspiration point. Have a journal of things you like and incorporate them in your new home or in the home you want to sell. Just don't expect to do it as quickly, cheaply and professionally 'as seen on TV!'