Remodeling your home is both exciting and nerve-racking. The thrill and anticipation of seeing your home transformed is what homeowners look forward to but the process of getting it done can dampen your spirits if you don’t follow these tips.
Use a licensed contractor and design-build firm. Some minor home improvement projects are easy and simple enough to do but for the big home remodel projects, you want a team of experts involved. Everything from the design plans to the permitting to the construction will be taken care of and carefully detailed with a reputable design-build company.
These companies have all the knowledgeable professionals working for them on your remodel so that you have a comprehensive approach rather than if you go to one company to draft the plans and another to build it. When you do that, the architect’s plans could easily go over budget.
Don’t cut corners. Cutting corners or skipping important steps like getting a permit can cost you tremendously later. When an experienced company is handling your project, it will let you know which permits are necessary and will keep the filing process streamlined and on target for completion.
When it comes to choosing materials, you might be tempted to go for cheaper products. Here’s where you should expect to receive advice from your design-build firm about the best and most affordable products that will last for years. Cutting corners by using inferior cabinetry or flooring isn’t worth the time and money it will cost you later to pull it out and replace it. When you hire a trusted design-build firm, you should have someone who can help you identify the best materials for your remodel. Their experience can be what saves you a lot of time.
Bring in sample pictures or show them your online pin board. In this digital era it’s easier than ever to gather and compile photos of homes you love. If you’re remodeling a kitchen, bring in clippings or photos of your dream kitchen. The more precise you are about your likes and dislikes, the easier it will be to draft your plans. You can also use websites like pinterest.com to showcase each room you’re remodeling on a separate pin board. Then simply share your board with your designer.
Websites like houzz.com are another great tool for homeowners. No longer do you have to spend money buying dozens of remodeling magazines just to tear out pictures. Today, these sites offer a variety of work from all over the world. It’s never been easier to showcase what you love so that your dream home can become reality.