The new and improved “Honey-do” list
You have decided to remodel. You are bound and determined to be smart about it. You’ve heard the horror stories. Sometimes when you take steps to avoid a negative outcome, that decision may have led you right into one. Yes, there are smart things you can do in your remodel, but make sure they aren’t part of the 5 listed here:
- Buying materials yourself- “I can get myself better prices on my own”…you may be thinking this, but it isn’t so. Contractors get trade discounts and pass them on to you. Trying to shop yourself is just asking for higher prices. Plus, if you select the wrong faucet, or tile, it may actually make the timeline to complete your project even longer.
- Not planning out the entire project early- If you select all the products for your remodel right after your initial meeting with your contractor, its much easier to avoid any confusion later on.
- Focus on nailing down contractor, not project- right away, everyone focuses on the bid. Where will I get the best deal? Best reputation? Red Flag! You should try to focus all your attention on exactly what your project is, down to every detail. From there, look for the contractor who best understands your project, and then only allow bids based on what the full project is, so you can make an informed choice.
- Thinking you know more than your contractor- You may think that since its your home, you know everything about it. It is best to let this idea go. Construction knowledge is gained over time. Many contractors have spent years doing onsite trainings, testing, and learning. They are usually former architects, and carpenters with decades of experience. These people KNOW about your home. Sometimes, they know much more.
- Thinking your remodel is just like your neighbors- Every home starts out different. Every home. So, every project is unique. It’s a waste of time to tell your contractor “I want my project just like Joe’s across the street.” It wont happen that way.
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