Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Thursday, March 4th, 2010
We’re almost finished with laying the foundation for a successful remodel. Here are the last four tips:
7. READ YOUR CONTRACT THOROUGHLY
It should call for the work to be performed in accordance with all applicable building codes. It should also specify all materials to be used. For example, “Install trough sink, manufactured by Company ABC, model xyz, as per the plan.”, not just “Install bathroom sink, as discussed.” Written change orders should reflect additional work not in the original scope of the project, substituted materials, etc.
8. STAGGER PAYMENTS
Pay for work as it is completed. Payments should not get ahead of the work. Keep a running list of open items that need to be addressed before making final payment.
9. START WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE
Enlisting the help of a certified construction manager from pre-design through completion helps ensure your remodeling project stays true to your vision and is completed on time and within budget. A construction manager is also a valuable resource when selecting design pros and general contractors.
10. ENJOY THE PROCESS
A remodeling project does not have to be unnecessarily stressful. Educating yourself about the process will enlighten you as to what to expect thereby reducing anxiety.
Sunday, February 28th, 2010
Let’s continue laying the foundation for planning your project successfully by sharing three more tips for a successful remodel:
4. SPACE PLAN
Create a simple space plan early in the design process that can serve as the basis of your remodel project. Since placement of every element (i.e. lighting, outlets, furniture, plants, shelving, etc.) is important, continually update and reality check your plan before construction begins to avoid costly change orders.
5. TEST PAINT COLORS
Don’t just buy a gallon of paint and hope the color is right. Test several colors on an area of the room you’ll be painting and live with your choices for a few days before making the final decision. You no longer need to buy several quarts of paint to test paint colors since many paint companies offer sample-sizes.
6. INTERVIEW AT LEAST 3 CONTRACTORS
The obvious points to check are references, license(s) and insurance coverage. However, when checking references also ask behavioral questions about ease of communication, interaction with neighbors and clear lines of responsibility for every detail (i.e. who selects and/or purchases fixtures?).
I’ll share the remaining tips in my next post.
Thursday, February 25th, 2010
Ever wonder why so many homeowners suffer from remodelitis®? Even though they’re eager to get to the remodeling finish line, they keep putting off starting a remodel they’ve been ready for.
It’s because we hear about more remodeling HORROR stories than DELIGHT stories.
Let’s help lay the foundation for planning your project successfully by sharing three of the ten tips for a successful remodel.
1. ARTICULATE YOUR VISION
While the mental image of what you want may not be vivid, only you know what inspires you. Create a file of images from magazines or online photo galleries that inspire you.
2. VERIFY WHETHER PERMITS ARE REQUIRED
Moving forward with a remodel project without obtaining the necessary permits can result in being fined or forced to demo the work done. Check with your local building department regarding the scope of work for which permits are required and what the requirements, if any, are.
3. FORMULATE A REALISTIC BUDGET
Unless you’re living the ‘Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous’ AND have the deep pockets to match, you’ll need to distinguish between must-haves and nice-to-haves, then prioritize them. Your budget should factor in a few additional weeks and a 10 to 15 percent reserve for unforeseen issues that may arise such as an undetected water leak, mold, etc.
I’ll share more tips in my next post.
Saturday, January 30th, 2010
Stay tuned for my new blog!
