Amy Matthews is our renovating, economizing woman-crush

“Can you increase the value of your home by $10,000 in just two weekends?” That’s the question Amy Matthews answers on DIY Networks “Sweat Equity,” a show that helps homeowners decide which home improvement projects can make a big difference with a little bit of investment and a lot of, well, sweat.

And that’s why home improvement rock star, Amy Matthews, also host of the hit “Renovation Raiders,” is this week’s Woman Crush Wednesday. She’s a licensed contractor, interior designer, certified personal trainer, TV show host and actress, but the description we love most is “ninja remodeler” — as HGTV calls the amazing home renovation and design maven.

For tips from Amy on how to renovate like a pro, and before & after photos that’ll inspire you to get started on your own home improvement projects, head to the HGTV site here. Then, be sure to check out the Home section of our Better Lives Blog, where you’ll find helpful information on how to save money and make smart choices when it comes to home improvements and repairs.

Beyond her impressive remodel and renovation skills, this talented home renovation and design queen also generously gives back. Her website says, Amy’s “focus on humanity is also grounded in her work to build homes that are environmentally sustainable and culturally sensitive.” She’s traveled all over the world assisting with Habitat for Humanity projects, having worked alongside Roslyn and Jimmy Carter building homes, and she’s also been the keynote speaker at multiple Habitat for Humanity events.

Amy’s not alone in her ability to wield a hammer and plan out complex renovations. According to a recent survey by the Home Improvement Research Institute, and as cited by the nationally syndicated radio show, The Money Pit, “…more and more women are taking an active role in the planning and purchasing for home improvement projects. From weekend DIY projects, to researching contractors, to deciding if a home improvement loan is needed to finance the kitchen makeover, women have become home improvement rock stars.

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