What to Expect

Things you should know before starting a remodeling job:

1. Do Your Homework

  • Start an idea file. Pull pictures and write down ideas from magazines, television, friends, referrals and your own imagination.
  • Research different products. Pick products that are sensible and within budget.
  • Be realistic with budgeting. Start with how much money you can spend and work from there.
  • Identify your problems and what your needs really are.

2. Value

  • What is the degree of remodeling? Will the project be cosmetic or major surgery? Don’t let the remodeling project take away from your home.
  • Don’t overbuild. Take the value of your home into consideration before you decide to remodel.
  • Remember the neighborhood! Remodeling should bring your home up to the level of others in the neighborhood, but not severely over.
  • Many times it is of more value to move into a bigger/better home rather than remodel.

3. Cost

  • Threshold Cost For Kitchen
  • Major surgery usually costs $20,000+
  • Major cosmetic remodeling costs $12,000+
  • Minor cosmetic remodeling costs $3,000+
  • Threshold Cost For Bath
  • Major surgery usually costs $13,000+
  • Major cosmetic remodeling costs $8,000+
  • Minor cosmetic remodeling costs $2,000+
  • Compare the cost of the remodeling project to the value of the home.

4. Choosing Your Contractor

  • Get referrals. A good place to start is a local builders association.
  • Look at examples of their work.
  • Don’t base a decision solely on price. Look at the whole package: experience, qualifications, craftsmanship, etc.
  • Check Credentials. Make sure the contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded.
  • Don’t be confused by too many estimates.

5. Design

  • Does the contractor offer solutions?
  • Have someone to help with design. If your contractor does not offer this, you may want to hire a designer or architect.
  • Design/Build – When a contractor coordinates and/or performs design and construction. Typically, this gives you a single point of contact and a more accurate estimate.

6. Time

  • Be sure to get a detailed schedule from your contractor.
  • Take the degree of difficulty into consideration when discussing a timeline.
  • Be realistic and discuss the timeline before work begins.

7. Communication

  • Ask Questions. The contractor is there to help you.
  • Establish a clear contract.
  • Get detailed plans, drawings, and specifications as needed for the project.
  • Get to know your contractor and their staff. Be clear on who is in charge.
  • The remodeling process will be enjoyable if everyone is on the same page.