Remodel Do’s and Don’ts

We have a lot of people that come to us and ask for advice on what things to look out for and what to do on their remodel or next renovation project. I have some generic tips that we think would be most helpful to anyone looking just for some quick pointers that can apply to any project!

Do’s

Make a budget and stick to it.

This is so important. Gather your costs up front prior to starting, set a plan for all items that will be needed in your remodel. If you are unsure of every item, ask your supplier. Remodel's have a lot of unforeseen things that come up because you can't see everything behind the walls when you're in the starting phase. Add 20% of your total costs for miscellaneous items or unforeseen problems that arise. Creating a budget up front will help you be responsible and see the big picture, especially if the remodel is an investment.

Get reviews from trusted peers or past clients. 

Do not rush this part. Too many times I see people rush the process of selecting the first contractor that comes their way just because they are excited and anxious to get the job done. Not all contractors are created equal, make sure you express your expectations up front with them and make sure the scope of work is clearly outlined.

Put attention on things that are not so glamorous. 

This would be things like insulation, beat up HVAC, electrical issues, plumbing issues, settling problems with foundations, etc. These are things that come up in remodels and need correcting. Oftentimes they are found as a result of opening up a wall or looking for the cause of another problem. Spend the money to fix these things, otherwise you'll just be putting "lipstick on a pig" if you only focus on what the eye can see at the end of the project.

Don’ts

Use the cheapest contractors.

"You get what you pay for" could never be more true. Don't expect someone to go the extra mile if you are not paying them a competitive wage. Do your research, or it could haunt you in the end.

Second guess yourself.

Be confident in your selections, work with a professional and trust them. They are there to help you create a space or home you are proud of and want to show off to all your friends and family.

Procrastinate.

Order all of your appliances, cabinet pulls, bath hardware, etc up front. Especially in this day and age where supply-chain issues are ever so common. It's better to order everything up front and have it show up before you need it rather than be waiting and have it hold up the project.