Interest in remodeling has never been greater. If you are an owner of an aging structure (or you plan to own one), you may be dissatisfied with some aspect of the property. Remodeling can turn your home into the one you have always wanted.
A remodeling project has no clear-cut beginning, middle or end. The process begins long before anyone drives the first nail and continues for some time after the crews leave. However, each project is organized in a logical way. Surprises certainly will crop up, but the more you know about the process, the better prepared you will be to deal with these situations.
In this blog and numerous blogs to follow, I will cover the typical steps in a remodeling project.
- Finding Your Remodeler
- Selecting Your Project
- Designing Your Remodeling Project
- Budgeting for Your Remodeling Project
- Signing Your Contract
- Packing and Preparing Your Household
- Remodeling Your Home
- Preparing for Closing
Today’s Issue … FINDING YOUR REMODELER – GETTING STARTED
Remodeling your home can be one of the most exciting times of your life. To ensure a memorable experience, take the time to choose a remodeler who understands your needs, speaks your language, and respects your lifestyle.
There are many contractors who seek your business, but your home is too important to entrust just to anyone.
Before You Meet with a Remodeler
- Develop an idea of what you want to do.
- Write a prioritized list of your needs and wants.
- Look at magazines and collect pictures of what you like. (The more clearly you can envision the project and describe it on paper, the more likely you are to convey a clear image of your project to a remodeler).
- Think about traffic patterns, furniture placement, colors, lighting, and how you want to use the remodeled space.
- Figure out how much money you have to spend on the remodeling job, the furnishings, and the landscaping (if any). If necessary, talk to lenders and find out how much you can borrow.
Begin the Search
Seek referrals from:
- Friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and others who have had remodeling done.
- Local trade associations, such as your area’s local builders association and local Remodelers Council.
- Check with your Better Business Bureau to see if they had any complaints about the remodeler.
- Check with your state’s licensing agency to verify that the remodeler has the appropriate license(s).
