The hardest part of remodeling is the stress of finding a reliable person to do the job that fits your needs. Everyone has heard the horror stories and maybe dealt with someone who wasn’t what you were expecting. Even with a good contractor it can be stressful due to the expense and surprises that can arise during the process. If you’re doing a large project, a general contractor is the route to go. They may hire subcontractors for specialty work but usually the general contractor takes full responsibility of the warranties of the subcontractors. Sometimes you may hear stories of homeowners being their own general contractors and hiring specific tradespeople for each job needed.

 

      This may save money but it can be time-consuming and may add more stress especially if you work full-time or have limited time on your hands to be on top of things. The least stressful route to go is finding a company that does it all for you. This type will have in-house employees that do the whole project including electrical or plumbing. They will also have a standard warranty for the whole job, which is convenient if something breaks or gets damaged, then you only need one phone number on file.  

 

     Choosing the right contractor can be difficult so learning the ins and outs of remodeling can help you make a better decision and know what to expect before, during and after the process. Take a look at the best way to start the process and become an innovative homeowner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check out some of these new upgrades that will inspire you for your remodel      

      

Preparing to Remodel:

• What don’t you like about your space now?
• Consider your lifestyle with your new space?
• What do you envision in your new space?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Choosing a contractor/remodeling company:

• Get recommendations
• Look for a portfolio of finished projects to find someone that fits with your criteria
• Call with a list of questions to weed out
• Meet face to face with companies specifically at your remodel site
• Investigate the facts, credentials and referrals
• Make plans and get bids from each company
• Set a payment schedule
• Don’t let price be your guide
• Put everything in writing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Questions to ask

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you licensed to work in my state?
• Do you and your workers carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance?
• Can you provide insurance certificates?
• Are you lead-certified?
• Are you willing to provide financial references?
• What is the warranty on your work?
• What services are covered under your contract? May I see a sample contract?
• Who will be assigned as the project manager? Will the project manager be on site all day?
• Do you have an architect/engineer on staff? If not, whom do you use?
• How many design drafts are included in the contract?
• Do you use your own construction crews?
• Who are your subcontractors, and how long have they worked with you?
• What is the time frame for the project? When is an approx. start date? Completion date?
• When do you need my product selections?
• Who will walk us through design and selections?
• How do you handle allowances for products?
• Which suppliers do you use?
• Is the contract a fixed price or is it cost of materials and labor plus contractor fees?
• What payment schedule will you use? (deposit, regular payments, percent of completion payments, other)
• May I have a list of references for comparable projects you have recently completed?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Create a Timeline:

Keep in mind that creating your dream space can be lengthy. They don’t just take a sledgehammer to everything like they do on the HGTV channel. That’s for a dramatic effect. Your re-modeler should keep you up to date on expected delivery times for your products. A project begins with demo and repairs. Next is plumbing, electric, flooring, cabinets, counter-tops and then lastly installation of appliances, sinks, and/or fixtures.

Here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath we provide a truly cut above the rest when it comes to quality, integrity, and exceptional customer service. We are a full remodeling company; with no subcontractors; all the same workers every time and no separate warranties to worry about. Give us a call today and schedule your free estimate 480-649-1422.

 

Additional resources:

American Institute of Architects: aia.org

National Association of homebuilders:   nahb.org

National Association of the remodeling Industry:  narimetrodc.org

 

follow us on Facebook