How to AVOID a nightmare remodel in 2017

How to AVOID a Nightmare Remodel in 2017

Here are a few things to ask yourself & think about before hiring a remodeling agency…

Everybody needs a checklist now and then.. I know I do!!!

So let the Checklist begin!

…there are definitely more questions to ask than if you are Licensed and how much it Costs but while we’re going over questions…Don’t forget to ask those too!

CHECKLIST …

#1 Check on credentials…does the company have certifications? Do they have warranty-backed service on parts, mechanical and structural…and how long is the warranty? Do they have a 100% satisfaction guarantee?

#2 Do they charge to see design drawings? example… SpaceMakers does not charge and we go over drawings when we come out with a quote . Gotta love visuals! 🙂

#3 Reviews… check credible website for reviews. Reviews are a good way to weed out the bad ones right away. Check Angie’s list and other sites to see what people are saying. Check on size of jobs and similar projects to yours so you get an idea of what they are capable of doing.

#4 How long have they been in business…especially for bigger jobs where you need a good contractor, someone to keep the project moving. The longer they have been around shows they have a good rapport and lasting relationships. They have long established proving dependability.

Local remodelers have been around awhile and usually value their reputation and have reinforced it in the community.

#5 Word of mouth… this one is self explanatory but talk to neighbors and friends… people are always willing to share their experiences!

#6 Make sure they are a full design build remodeling company… not all remodeling companies provide the service. It can be an overwhelming experience when searching for tile, flooring, paint colors, cabinets, counter tops etc., by yourself. Its nice to have a designer’s eye to help you narrow down your search so you can pick out what makes you happy. They also have the knowledge and insight into what is good for resale… it’s just all around a helpful plus!

#7 Who will you be primarily dealing with… (designer? owner?) not just a sales person. Will they stay with you every step of the way so you can trust who you are working with? We take pride in our jobs and the same people who come out to meet you and give you a quote will be there through the whole remodel, from start to finish. Ask the question about who will be your main contact so you can meet them and feel confident they will be available for you to call with questions.

#8 It’s a good idea to get 3 bids and compare apples to apples… for example is the cabinetry low end? mid? or high quality? Are the counter tops they are bidding laminate, granite or quartz? The reason that makes a difference is some firm’s bids are lower because they quote low end (builder grade) and then raise the price later…after the fact…so you need to ask questions before and during your bid/quote.

#9 How long will the project take… for instance at SpaceMakers we take pride and confidence in telling our clients most projects take 6 weeks start to finish unless there are multiple projects going on at once. The reason being is we have a method to our madness when it comes to demolition and the ordering of cabinets, counter tops and such, along with a regular crew, which allows us the ability to finish the project much faster than most remodeling companies. Ask questions on timing and why!

Yes there has to a method to anyone’s madness I do believe! 🙂

(side note.. SpaceMakers will do their best to make construction comfortable for you. For example, move your refrigerator or range in other rooms/set up temporary walls to hold back daycare kids (yes we did actually do this and they were so thankful!:)) So look for an agency that cares and is willing to go out of their way to help you stay comfortable during the stress of construction in anyway they can.. peace of mind goes a long way so check to see how helpful they will be!