Any time a major or minor renovation is in your plans, there are a lot of key things to consider to insure that, in the end, all your expectations are met and you are happy with the end result. Some of the items for consideration are the following:
DO YOUR HOMEWORK– Prepare yourself for a realistic budget in addition to the time period it will take to complete your project. Although it may not be fun and no one necessarily enjoys it, it is critical to clearly understand what you are getting into. Know what questions to ask your potential contractors.
YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR– You don’t necessarily want the cheapest materials. Although budgeting is extremely important and you want to get the best value for your time and efforts, return on your investment is also important. If you can’t afford to do it exactly the way you want, you may want to wait until you can seek an experienced, licensed contractor- or find a contractor that offers financing options.
HAVE A PLAN BEFORE YOU GET STARTED –Do your best to communicate your vision clearly to any contractor you are considering. Although the plan may be modified through the process as you work on budgets and pick finishes, keep the end result in mind as you move through the process. A qualified contractor will be able to understand your vision and help you stay on course as you navigate the renovation.
AVOID TRENDS IF THEY ARE NOT ‘YOU’– It’s easy to fall into the trap of choosing a finish simply because every TV show and magazine tells you that is what’s ‘in’. Avoid this pitfall. They’re called trends for a reason- they may, or may not, stand the test of time. If you truly love those trends then go for it! But if you don’t, choose something you love – after all, you are the one that will be living with it.
ANTICIPATE CHAOS – When you look up the definition of construction in Webster’s Dictionary the definition should state ‘controlled chaos’. It’s impossible to have any type of renovation in your home without some construction debris or dust. Experienced contractors will work to alleviate this as much as possible and clean up after themselves at the end of each work day. If you have specific health needs that would be greatly affected by dust, it’s important to communicate this to your contractor. You may want to ask if they, when needed, utilize air machines or HEPA Vacuums. You’ll also want to work with your contractor to coordinate any ‘down time’ when baths or kitchen spaces may not be usable.
SEEK EXPERIENCED CONTRACTORS – When considering a renovation contractor, ask if they have remodeling experience. Contractors that typically build new homes may not be well versed in renovation projects where they are working in homes where you still have to live each day. Also consider whether the contractor has a Class A License, carries General Liability, Completed Operations & Workers Compensation Insurance coverage , is rated by the Better Business Bureau, and the number of years they have been in business. When you are inviting them into your home- Experience matters!
