Planning
Always a good first step but relax a bit and only worry about the top 10 at this
time.
Top 10 list
A.
- This can be as specific as an architectural style, a basic flow you want, Specific materials you would like to integrate
or it can be as simple as adding more light or storage.
Whatever is the most important thing on your mind. But don't
worry about the rest that will come later.
B. Meet with a few contractors and get a sense of their style, personalities,
and a basic sense on the cost.
For a larger remodel though don't worry about pinning them down
on exact cost unless you already have professional drawings and specifications for the project.
C. We of course
recommend you work with a Design Build Firm such as American Home. With that process we work with you to determine the
budget range ahead of the design and then design toward that goal.
This may mean choosing to
use some less expensive finishes, possibly creating the overall project in phases, or as we work through the process making
changes to help meet the budget with the design.
It is also good to consider the financial wisdom
with timing on things. This year is still a great year to consider replacement windows or upgrading that furnace with the
tax credits available.
D. Construction in your home.
As a professional
remodeler we certainly appreciate and respect that our work is in your home.
But no matter
how we rearrange those words they do still mean Construction in Your Home.
This means that no matter how nice, neat, or respectful the tradesmen and women are you must
be ready to accept that there will be drills, saws, hammers and the like
being used daily throughout the process.
E. Mistakes
We work
hard to avoid them of course. With our experience we do avoid most of them, but there will be some. Most of the
time it is something that is corrected right away if they see it is wrong.
At times
however,no matter how conscientious the crews are someone is going to trip a breaker, or cut a buried cable line
or a material will arrive broken etc...
The best advice is to
Prepare
Yourself for the process,noise, dust, and inconvenience and schedule yourself outside of the home on
those important days to avoid interruptions in your day.
Also try to remember to
tell the crews about all the good things that they are doing.
It is something as a
business owner I forget myself all too often
But it really go's a long way to a positive,
productive job-site and overall experience.
Lastly enjoy the process. You will witness
the best that HGTV had ever hoped to offer!
