Not quite, though there are periods when workmanship was particularly shoddy, such as in the building boom of the 1980s. Stuff built between the wars has held up well, so to speak, because of superior workmanship, though some of the materials (like lath and plaster) can be tough to work with.
As for handiness, some people can do it and others not, but most who attempt can surprise themselves through application of "native cunning." In any case it pays to learn enough not to be taken to the cleaners by unscrupulous or careless contractors.