New Year’s Remodeling Resolutions [Text]:
If remodeling, repairing, adding on or building a new home is on your list of New Year’s resolutions for this coming year, be sure to plan every detail of your project before you start even the smallest part of the job.
Here are five things you should know before you remove a single nail:
- Know your goals. The more specific you are about your vision for the room you’re remodeling, the more likely you are to get what you want. When you foresee the finished room, which products are in it? Where is everything located? Is it bigger than the original?
- Know your budget. Shop around to find out if you can afford the products, finishes and layout that you envision. Don’t get halfway through the project before you realize that you can’t. Find out how long it will take for the new products to arrive at your home. That way, you won’t rip anything out until you know you can replace it as soon as you’re ready.
- Know your limits. Maybe you’re pretty handy around the house, but you’ve got to realize that there’s a lot going on behind the walls of every room. So even if you want to do some of the work yourself, it’s critical that you consult with a professional contractor at some point to make sure you’re not going to do any harm to your home.
- Know your contractor. Most major renovations require a general contractor or at least a series of qualified tradesmen, like a plumber, an electrician, a tile setter or another specialist. Before you hire them, get references from family, friends, neighbors and organizations like the Better Business Bureau and the local Home Builder’s Association that can help you decide who’s trustworthy and qualified.
- Know your rights. Don’t hire anyone who won’t give you a price and a schedule in writing and signed by both of you. Don’t pay all at once; pay in increments as the work is done and withhold final payment until your room is as you envisioned it and as the contractor promised in the contract.
Planning can take as long as the work itself. In fact, a good plan will help the project go smoothly and as you expected. That’s a good way to start a fresh, New Year.
Want more information? To get your free report, “11 Remodeling Mistakes Cost You Thousands,” Call Mari at 318-865-4914 or email mari@jeb.net or call 318-216-4525 to hear a free audio recording of the report.