You’ve got your eyes set on a new project – a big one. It doesn’t matter if you are making changes to just one room in your home, or the entire home, you know you’ve got your work cut out for you! Regardless of all the hard work and effort you will put in to turning your house into the dream home you’ve always wanted, you want to make sure the process is handled as proficiently and carefully as possible. If you take your time planning a big project like this, chances are you will be much happier with the results than if you were to rush through it just to get it done.
To ensure a successful and beautiful renovation, follow each of these steps very carefully. It will pay in the long run. You will love your completed project!
Step 1. Do your homework.
Before taking on such a large project it is important to do a little research. From home improvement magazines and websites to renovation seminars, there are several places to find amazing information on home renovations. Take time to consult with experts in the industry to get an understanding of what is required and how to proceed with the project.
Step 2. Set your budget.
Part of the research phase is to plan out your dream and must-have list. During that process you will have discovered the costs associated with your renovation. This will help you determine a budget for the entire project. Be sure to set a realistic budget you can afford, and tailor your must have lists accordingly.
Step 3. Decide if it is a DIY project or one that needs professionals.
Unless you have the right skill set, it is most likely you will need some professional assistance. This is particularly true for work that requires electrical, or plumbing work. Never attempt to do something you have very little knowledge about, it will save you time, lots of headaches and money to hire a professional to do it right the first time.
Step 4. Before you hire a professional, ask around and get references.
You can interview as many contractors as it takes, after all, it is your house, and you have to live there. Ask your friends and family members for referrals, or if you are choosing a contractor whose work you are unfamiliar with, get references.
Step 5. Get a proposal.
Once you have made a decision to hire a professional, show your plans and specs to the person(s) who will be completing the job. Ask them to provide you with a proposal. If you’ve not made plans yet, simply ask your architect to provide you with a proposal and/or budget for the project. Most professionals will do this anyway. It’s just professional.
Step 6. Go over the contract/proposal with a fine tooth comb.
Make sure you are comfortable with the prices. You need to be 100% happy with your contract BEFORE you sign anything. This is a biggy, and most of the time you can’t change it. So pay close attention and re-read it once or twice. How ever long it takes to get it right.
Step 7. Communicate your expectations and concerns with your contractor.
Communication is everything. If you or your contractor does not establish this from the jump, it could leave deep lack of communication pits, where you and your contractor fall off the same page. This can be devastating to your project. You should be available to make decisions, collect reports on how it’s going, and whatever you do – don’t forget to voice any concerns you have. It’s YOUR house; remember?
If you can follow through with these simple steps, you should have an amazingly finished project at the end. Happy renovating!