Remodeling Tips
Once, when we were at a past client’s holiday party, guests were amazed that we had been invited and on such good terms with the hosts. While this surprised some guests, it disappointed us that others had experienced difficulty, if not regrets, with their remodeling projects. To help you make your project the most agreeable and trouble-free it can be (since no project is without surprises), we include the following “tips for success”:
- Get Multiple Estimates: Make sure all bids are based on the same set of plans and specifications. Ideally, specify exactly what you want done along with a close approximation of how much you can afford to spend. Professionals will appreciate you taking care of these basics and will be able to determine more closely the costs and time-lines of your project.
- Like many contractors, we offer two types of contracts:
Fixed price: both parties agree to a predetermined set price for the total project. 1. A change order, if additional work is requested or required (for unforeseen issues such as termite damage, soil conditions, etc.) or 2. A credit, when an item is found to be unnecessary or deleted. Customers generally know from the beginning the total cost of the project (unless, of course, they add change orders). Because of various unforeseen issues and risks, the contractor usually has to factor in a slightly higher cost to cover any contingencies or “What Ifs”. This contract is available to clients with very detailed, fully accurate plans and specifications of materials and finishes for estimating purposes. |
Cost Plus: customers agree to pay the cost of materials, labor, subcontractors, and any other costs related directly to the project plus a specified percentage to cover the builder’s overhead and profit. Customers get copies of all invoices that show exactly what was paid for every item. They can take advantage of contractor’s discounts and never wonder what kind of mark up the contractor is making. Although we try to estimate costs as closely as possible with the initial proposal, total project costs can be subject to change and not accurately realized until the end of the project. This type of contract gives the customer much more flexibility to make changes, allowing decisions to be made as the project evolves. This contract is appropriate to certain situations such as very old homes with significant unknowns, or for customers who prefer more flexibility, transparency and control of the process. |
- Don't necessarily go with the lowest (or, for that matter, the highest) bid before checking out the contractor’s workmanship, qualifications, and references. If the contractor bids “low” to get the job, some clients find they end up spending more during and/or after the job.
- Always insist on a written contract, written change orders, building permits, and inspections (as required by your area).
- Make certain the contractor is bonded, properly insured, and licensed (if required for the scope of the job). No professional should ever be “bothered” by your request for proof of insurance or licensing.
- Select a contractor with whom you are comfortable--one who understands your tastes and needs and with whom you can communicate easily.
- Be Realistic and Build in a Cushion: Even the best contractor can't see through walls, ensure that products arrive on time, predict price changes, or control the weather. One in five homeowners who worked with a contractor paid 10 percent more than estimated, and 36 percent of those projects took at least two weeks longer than anticipated. So leave between 10 and 15 percent of your budget for the unexpected.
- Be As Clear and Specific About Your Project As Possible: Good contractors want open communication and clarity. Suppose the contractor provided an allowance for laminate countertops in your proposal -- but you wanted (but did not communicate) Carrera marble. This error in communication would incur costly changes, pricing new materials, more paperwork (a change order), and potential delays. However, good contractors are also flexible, able to meet the needs of customers who may change their minds (knowing the contractual consequences) during a complicated and sometimes emotional process.
- Be cautious about changing the plans without considering the consequences (additional costs, paperwork, time delays, etc.) Some project add-ons or “change orders” may be inevitable, but sticking as much as possible to the original plan and products for your project will help keep the budget and schedule in check. By the same token, altering the plans, if communicated effectively, agreed upon, and affordable, can make a great project even better.
