Preparations to Make in Advance of Remodeling

Professional renovations can effectively breathe new life into any area of your residence. So, if any part of your home has become impractical or outdated – or you’re just in the mood for a change – a good remodel might be just what the doctor ordered. Unfortunately, far too many homeowners jump into renovations without realizing how much time, effort, and financial resources they require. Not only can undertaking renovations for which you’re ill-prepared cause a tremendous amount of stress, but this decision also stands to bleed you dry financially. To help ensure that your next extensive remodel goes off without a hitch, make sure to tend to the following preparations.

Find the Right Contractor 

When carrying out a large-scale renovation, your choice of contractor is vitally important. While some contractors are an absolute joy to work with, others will cause endless headaches and bleed you dry financially. Luckily, separating the good from the bad and finding the right contractor doesn’t have to be an arduous undertaking – provided, of course, you’re willing to put in a little work. 

For starters, only do business with licensed contractors if someone can’t be troubled to meet the minimum requirements to practice as a contractor in your jurisdiction. What does this say about their work quality? Additionally, since licensed contractors are accountable to state boards, they have more incentive to complete jobs on time and budget and professionally conduct themselves. On the other hand, unlicensed contractors are accountable to no one, meaning they have little incentive not to overcharge and cut corners. 

Secondly, any contractor to whom you give your patronage should be fully bonded or insured. This way, if any damage is caused to your property during their work, you can rest assured that you’ll be covered. Unsurprisingly, many unlicensed contractors lack insurance and bonding. 

Lastly, before making your final decision, consult various online reviews. Direct consumer feedback is arguably the best way to gauge how accommodating a business truly is – and contractors are no exception. To begin your search, fire up your preferred web browser and look for “construction companies near me".

Have a Clear Picture of What You Want 

Even the most dependable contractor will have trouble meeting your expectations if you’re unable to provide them with a clear picture of what you want. Jumping into a significant – and costly project – as a large-scale renovation without a clearly defined end goal- is liable to prove financially strenuous and stressful for everyone involved. 

With this in mind, sit down with your contractor or an experienced interior designer before the renovations are underway. If you lack a clear idea of what you want, these individuals will be able to help. Alternatively, if you have clear expectations in mind, the parties mentioned above will explain how feasible they are and offer recommendations as needed. While “the customer may always be right,” it’s also essential for the customer to know what they want.   

Procure the Proper Budget 

It’s no secret that remodels are expensive. Depending on your home area and how ambitious your plans are, you could easily be looking at a final tally of tens of thousands of dollars. That being the case, you must procure the proper budget before work on the project commences. This means getting a detailed job estimate from your contractor – and having them sign a contract in advance of starting work. (If a contractor refuses to do either of these things, this should be taken as a red flag.) Keep in mind the most remodels will wind up costing up to 20% more than what’s estimated, so make sure to take this into account when putting together your budget.  

If you’re looking to revamp any area of your home majorly, large-scale renovations may be right up your alley. Whether you have a kitchen, bathroom, shared room, or bedroom that requires sprucing up, a well-executed remodel can make the space feel brand-new. However, as any experienced contractor can attest, diving headfirst into renovations without a solid plan in place is likely to have undesirable consequences. Fortunately, you can avoid feeling the sting of poor planning by tending to the previously discussed preparations.