3 Things to Consider Before Your Next Remodel

1. Who are you hiring?

   1. Get referrals from friends, family, neighbors, co-workers!

   2. Make sure they are licensed and bonded.

   3. Get everything in writing! Specifically contractors agreement upon both parties.

2. What time of year?

   1. Understand the scope of your project before choosing the time of year for your renovations.

   2. Many people think about remodeling prior to the holidays but understand the scope of your job prior to setting expectations.

   3. KEY TIP: If you choose to order the materials (flooring, hardware, ect.) make sure everything is on site prior to the job start date. Many jobs extend past the desired completion date simply because all materials weren’t ready and on-site.

3. Budget: Give yourself a 5% cushion!

   1. Add-ons and changes during the project can drive you past your budget.

   2. Material Selection / Price per square foot

   3. Furniture: Most people intend to keep their current furnishings until they see how it looks in the new space.

   4. Opening up a wall, load bearing walls, re-routed electrical & plumbing, mold will drive up cost.

      1. Other examples: New Island: If the plumbing isn’t currently located where it needs to be = additional cost.

      2. DO I need a permit?

         1. YES, if load bearing walls are removed

         2. YES, if new gas lines run underground