“When they get to occupations that allow access to every part of my house (plumbers, painters, carpet layers, etc.,) I’m leaving the country, or be forced to be become a full time DIY-er.”
LOL. I’ve posted before that I think that unknown visitors/workers may be the main cause of house break-ins. Sure, that plumber that’s been in business for 20 years would walk past a box of hope diamonds without even a glance, but how about his 20-some helper? And even worse, if his helper is clean, how about his “friends” from high school?
Other thank rare warranty work, no one steps into my house. I do the best jobs that I can, and we accept the results of my work, which is usually passable. Life may get more interesting if/when my air conditioner breaks, but I do have the tools and materials to fix most things - and if I have to replace it, I’ll try my best to do that myself too.
So far, no “unannounced” visitors - I think not having people come in pretty much puts you off the radar map for these people. I also don’t deal with having or participating in garage sales. We did it once (my wife insisted) and I did not like some of the people that came by.
You may not know it but you are now becoming a red neck.