Budget

07 Apr 2022
Sticky Post By Posted in Blog, Budget, Home Improvements, Kitchen Remodels, Master Bath Remodel, Resale Value Permalink

5 Remodels That Make Good Resale Value Sense – and 5 That Don’t

Sticky Post By On April 7, 2022

We are sharing this Houzz blog by Matt Clawson because we know you value your home remodel investment.  This blog has some great information about which home renovation projects can increase your remodel resale value. Houzz is a great resource where you can design your home, and browse 20 million interior design photos, home decor, decorating ideas, and home professionals online.  We are a member of Houzz and have won consecutive Best of Houzz awards!  With our design phase and remodeling processes, we can confidently help you set your goals within your budget adding a great resale value to your home. 

 

Repeat after me: I am the master of my remodel. Perhaps you should say it again because sadly, it’s not always so. Remodels sometimes have a tendency to develop their own inertia, as decisions lead to new dilemmas, unintended consequences, and surprising outcomes. In some cases, these flights of fancy are perfectly acceptable, provided the design and completed execution truly align with the vision and budget.

But if your budget is a concern and the wise investment of limited home improvement dollars matters, then there are a few basic guidelines you should familiarize yourself with before planning your remodel. Today we review five remodels that typically make good financial sense, providing a nice return on the investment at the time of resale — and five that don’t.

 

Remodel Resale Value

27 Diamonds Interior Design, Transitional Kitchen

 

Remodeling Projects That Offer Good Resale Value

1. Kitchens. Updating a tired old kitchen is one of the wisest methods, and a tried-and-true one, of increasing the value of your home. When planning a kitchen remodel, and making design decisions and selections for plumbing fixtures, appliances, cabinets, and countertop materials, you should determine whether you are prioritizing your own design aesthetic or the return on your investment.

Either priority is perfectly acceptable, but you should understand which is your priority, or strike a balance between the two that you can feel good about.

For example, using the existing kitchen layout and affordable cosmetic materials is a sure way to keep the cost of your kitchen remodel manageable. When you start tearing out walls, bumping out the exterior home footprint to gain a few feet, and moving plumbing fixtures and appliances, the cost of the remodel will jump and your dollars will be less efficiently spent.

Remodel Resale Value

FineCraft Contractors, Inc., Transitional Family Room

2. Adding living space. A straightforward addition of a new living room space is typically a very good investment.

Newly added square footage generally increases your home’s value. There are certain costs that will be associated with your addition regardless of the size. New square footage will require the demolition of existing exterior walls, a new foundation, a new roof, new exterior siding, and probably new windows. If you are going to incur these expenses, it’s important to get some bang for your buck. It’s important that the added room is sized so that the space can be efficiently produced.

Remodel Resale Value

Tree 2 Key Builders, Traditional Exterior

3. Curb appeal. You have heard not to judge a book by its cover, but smart money recognizes the cover’s value. Your front elevation is more than just a first impression. It’s the only impression available to just about all of your home’s potential buyers.

The good news is that there are a number of very affordable projects that can improve curb appeal and some more extensive improvements that can likely pay off as well. Simply cleaning out overgrown brush and making a few new planting additions to your landscape can go a long way toward improving curb appeal at a very low cost.

Repainting is another low-cost, high-impact improvement. Costlier changes such as changing out old windows or an aged entry door are things that potential buyers will notice and value. Even more extensive front-elevation remodels, such as added dormers and front porches, can prove wise from an investment standpoint.

Remodel Resale Value

Jameson Design Group, Contemporary Bedroom

4. Primary suites. Sorry, kids. Homebuying decisions are in the hands of adults, and adults care about the environment where they sleep. Updating a primary bedroom or remodeling and adding a new primary suite is money well spent. The buyers will picture themselves living in their private space, and it’s of quantitative value when they like what they see.

Remodel Resale Value

Denman Construction, Farmhouse Bathroom

5. Bathrooms. Homebuyers notice bathrooms, and although all the bathrooms are important, a priority should be placed on the powder room and master bath, followed by a guest bathroom and any other secondary baths (the kids don’t need to know).

The same rules apply to a bathroom remodel as to the kitchen. Cosmetic changes are safer from an investment standpoint than modifications involving changed layouts or minor additions, which can result in inefficient expenses.

Remodeling Projects That Typically Offer Poor Resale Value

1. Kids’ spaces. If your kids have a climbing wall, for example, the fantastic addition will probably lead to hours of fun, increased strength, and perhaps even a sense of accomplishment. But there is no assurance your homebuyer will feel the same way. A rock-climbing wall might actually represent a negative value to a buyer who sees this space as his man cave.

2. Pools. The National Swimming Pool Foundation estimates that there are more than 10 million swimming pools in the United States. Can 10 million pool owners possibly be wrong? Backyard pools are loved by millions, and while this appreciation is well-founded, they should be constructed for their many virtues that are not investment-related. A pool might increase the value of your home but is unlikely to pay for itself, as some buyers will perceive the pool as a negative maintenance expense.

3. Wine rooms. Some of the coolest remodels are the least savvy from an investment perspective. A wine room wouldn’t appeal to someone who does not love wine, for example. Original designs rarely appeal to everyone, so when adding spaces to a home you know you will sell, consider how personal it is and if others will feel as strongly as you do.

4. Removing features. Do not remove features for investment reasons. If you never use the fireplace in your basement, removing it might make perfect sense to you and your family. Just make sure you understand that the next homeowner might wish it were still there, and the money you spent demolishing the fireplace and reworking the space will not be reclaimed.

5. Minor additions. Adding a few square feet — say, to expand a bathroom or secondary bedroom — is rarely money well spent. The reason is simple. If you bump out a bedroom wall by a few feet, you might make that bedroom much more comfortable. That benefit alone might make it worthwhile in your circumstance. But the cost of the added elements, including foundation, roof, framing and drywall, will result in only a small gain in square footage. Say your 2,400-square-foot, three-bedroom home becomes a three-bedroom home with 2,440 square feet. It’s unlikely that you’ll recover the cost of the addition.

Remodel Resale Value

Michele Johnson Design, Traditional Kitchen

 

The Bottom Line

This exercise is not intended to dissuade you from pursuing a specific remodeling idea. The enjoyment and functionality get from a new space may make the project worthwhile even if it doesn’t provide good resale value. The decision is yours to make. Just be sure you make it with a full understanding of the investment value for every dollar you spend.

Written by Matt Clawson, a Houzz contributor. Realtor. Homebuilder, project consultant, and writer/March 15, 2022.

You can read the blog with its additional links on Houzz here.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

For high-end home design, build, and remodeling in the greater Phoenix area that reflects your vision, Homework Remodels will help you love your home again. Start your project by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or email [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project.  We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsman are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!  See our portfolio here.

02 Jul 2021
Sticky Post By Posted in Blog, Budget, Home Remodel, NARI Certified Permalink

There is More to a Project’s Cost Than Labor and Materials

Sticky Post By On July 2, 2021

From Our Choosing the Right Home Remodeling Professional (Series)

Our recent blogs have focused on topics that will help you choose the right home remodeling professional for your renovation project.  We’ve covered misconceptions and things to watch out for when hiring your contractor.  In this blog, we are talking about expectations of the cost of your project and how your contractor gets to his estimate.  Knowing this information, will help you feel more confident and create trust between you and your contractor.

Each project is different, however, there are always going to be costs that go beyond labor and materials.  Your contractor should break down an estimate and how they reach it, where possible. This adds an element of transparency that you want to see.

In addition to the actual labor, materials, and Sub Contractor prices there are many other expenses every successful contractor must figure into their price to survive.

Cost of Your Project

The following is a list of some of the key elements that make up overhead in every successfully managed remodeling company:

Telephone, cell phones
Office rent
Office supplies
Stationery and printing expenses
Website, hosting, and Internet
Worker’s Compensation & Liability insurance
Health insurance
Paid vacations, holidays
Staff meetings
Payroll expenses
Office administration and management
Time doing free estimates
Material price increases that may not be billable once a job is quoted
Estimating errors and omissions
Warranty repairs
Tools and equipment
Trucks, repairs & maintenance, fuel
Continuing education, training, and industry events
Computers and software
Business loans and interest
Accountant’s fees
Taxes
Production supervision and management
Advertising, marketing, and sales costs

This all adds up to a substantial amount of money. To cover his overhead, a contractor typically must add a percentage to the actual cost of labor and materials required to complete your project. Most professional contractors try to maintain a 7.5% – 20% profit when all is said and done. Without a profit, the contractor will eventually go out of business.

If you receive a price from a contractor that seems too high, they are very likely trying to pay for the very things that allow him to survive and provide a good, reliable service to you and a good environment for his employees.

Do beware of the contractor that tells you his prices are low because he keeps his overhead down. Chances are that could affect the quality of your project.

FREE CONSUMER AWARENESS GUIDE

Learn more about how to choose the right home remodeling professional with our consumer awareness guide.  Our guide, “10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor” will help you know what to look for when finding the right contractor so that you can be completely satisfied with your remodeling project.  This booklet was written so that you will be empowered to make the best decision for your home improvement and remodel. You can have the experience you desire for your home improvement project with the right contractor for you by requesting this free e-Book here.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

Begin your project by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or emailing Steve here to discuss remodeling your home, kitchen, or bathroom.  We offer no-obligation in-home consultations. Our award-winning designers and craftsman are eager to work with you to help you love your home again!

23 Jun 2021
Sticky Post By Posted in Budget, Consumer Awareness Guide, Home Remodel Permalink

12 Things to Watch Out For When Remodeling

Sticky Post By On June 23, 2021

Spotting Scams and the Inexperienced with Home Remodeling Contractors

Every industry has its share of scams and con artists. The remodeling industry is no exception. However, spotting scams and the inexperienced with home remodeling contractors is relatively easy provided you know what to look for.

One clue is that we tend to get a gut feeling if someone is trying to pull one over on us. But what about when someone isn’t intentionally trying to scam us? There are honest contractors that are either inexperienced, incompetent, or both. They may mean well, but their lack of skill or knowledge or inability to be able to complete or manage your project correctly can be just as devastating as the work of a truly unscrupulous contractor.

In other words, it’s not always the bad guys you need to look out for. There is a big difference between being willing and being able.

Let’s look at some of the things to look out for.

  1. “High-Pressure” Sales Tactics

With the remodeling business becoming more and more competitive each year, many contractors resort to high-pressure tactics to get you to sign on the spot without your best interest in mind. You should never feel pressured into deciding about choosing your contractor. Walk away.

  1. Unusual Payment Terms

Beware of the contractor who asks that you pay for the entire job upfront or asks you to pay in cash. A professional contractor will present an equitable, mutually acceptable payment plan, usually based on the progress of your project.

  1. Unverifiable Credentials

If you can’t verify a contractor’s company, name, address, and phone number, it’s a sure bet that trouble lies ahead. Many of these fly-by-night contractors are called “pick-up truck” builders. These guys don’t have verifiable businesses and are mobile enough to pack up and leave your job without a trace. A verifiable address is a must.

  1. Hard to Reach

Anyone can miss a call, but if you find that your prospective contractor doesn’t consistently return your calls, beware. Any remodeling project will have things come up that require prompt communication between you and your contractor. You want your contractor to be available to you when you have concerns. It is critical that you feel that your contractor is easy to reach and open to communication.

  1. The “Price Reduction”

This scam occurs when you say no to or show a bit of reluctance to the initial offer and in response the salesperson offers a lower price for the exact same work. Substantial reductions in price without changes in the scope of work or specifications could signify that the contractor is trying to get a higher price for something that is worthless, to begin with, and is just trying to save the sale.  If you and the contractor negotiate different materials, methods, or circumstances that clearly have an impact on the cost, this would be fine. Otherwise, the price should be the price.

  1. No Contract or Proposal 

Insist on a thorough contract or proposal with a defined scope of work, clear specifications, and detailed terms. By doing this, you will substantially increase your chances of being satisfied. It is best not to take anything for granted.

In addition to the benefits that come from knowing what to expect, if a contractor takes the time necessary to compile a detailed document, there will be far fewer unforeseen issues and misunderstandings, which will result in less stress for you, and your project will move along much more smoothly. If there is ever a misunderstanding, chances are it can be easily cleared up by referencing this critical document.

  1. Incomplete Specifications or Unclear Terms

Pay attention to the “Scope of Work” and “Specifications” sections of the contract or proposal. This is the part of the proposal that defines exactly what work will be completed (the scope of work) and exactly what products or materials and which methods are going to be used (the specifications). Every project should have clearly written specifications. Not just vague generalities.

  1. Shoddy or Incomplete Workmanship

By far, this is the most widespread scam of all. To address the potential for shoddy workmanship, I recommend following up with references until you are 100% satisfied that your contractor will provide the level of workmanship you expect. Awards are another area that can validate a contractor’s commitment to quality workmanship. Simply do not take someone’s word for it.

In our company, we recommend (and sometimes require) that prospective clients contact our references, and if available visit one or more of our past projects so they can see firsthand examples of our work. You’ll have a much better sense of the quality of work you can expect.

  1. The Contractor Asks That You Get the Required Permits

Some contractors may ask that you get the required building permits. If well explained, this could be to your advantage in certain cities, due to the way they have set fees for construction permits.  Or, this could be a signal that he is either unlicensed, the work is outside the area in which he is licensed, or he is not able to get a permit due to improper or inadequate insurance coverage. The contractor may also not be in good standing with the building department.
In any case, a reputable contractor will discuss the permit process with you and typically obtain a permit, if your project requires one.  When a contractor obtains the required building permits, you are more likely to have things done according to the applicable building codes. Also, check your homeowner insurance policy to see if it requires that a permit be issued on any major remodeling project to be properly insured.

  1. The Schedule or Time Frame Seems Too Good to Be True

If the schedule you’re quoted seems too good to be true, it just might be! A contractor who knows his business will give you a realistic work schedule/timeline. Don’t be lured by the contractor who promises an overly optimistic completion date.

  1. The Contractor Doesn’t Warranty His Work

Believe it or not, in some states, there is no law that requires a remodeling contractor to warranty his work. However, warranties are essential to any remodeling project. A good contractor will comply with the standards set forth by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

The National Association of Home Builders performance guidelines helps determine whether a contractor’s work requires corrective action in cases of dispute. Most professional contractors know about these guidelines and may refer to it in their warranty. They can provide you with a copy.  Remember this: Contractors committed to quality workmanship and client satisfaction warranty their work at least one year and many offer two years or more.

  1. The Contractor Appears Unkempt and Disorganized

A disorganized contractor means a disorganized project. Pay close attention to the details. Look for clues that the contractor has it together. You want your project to be organized – that starts and ends with your contractor.

FREE CONSUMER AWARENESS GUIDE

Learn about spotting scams and the inexperienced with home remodeling contractors with our consumer awareness guide.      Our guide, “10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor” will help you know what to look for when finding the right contractor so that you can be completely satisfied with your remodeling project.  This booklet was written so that you will be empowered to make the best decision for your home improvement and remodel. You can have the experience you desire for your home improvement project with the right contractor for you by requesting this free e-Book here.

06 Jun 2021
Sticky Post By Posted in Budget, Consumer Awareness Guide, Home Remodel Permalink

Avoid Three Common Misconceptions When Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

Sticky Post By On June 6, 2021

Your home is one of your most valuable assets. Selecting the right contractor will be the single most important factor in determining whether you will be completely satisfied with the outcome of your remodeling project. Every contractor brings a different level of knowledge, commitment, and dedication to the table.  In this blog, we share how to avoid three common misconceptions when hiring a remodeling contractor. The more you can become intimately aware of the “ins and outs” of how the remodeling business works, acquire the necessary knowledge and tools, you will be empowered to find the right contractor for your project.

Avoid These Three Common Misconceptions

Misconception #1 – You should always get three bids

Not necessarily. This tactic is probably responsible for more dissatisfaction within the remodeling industry than any other single factor.

Why?

If your objective is to get a quality job at a fair price, simply comparing it to another estimate is often very misleading. There aren’t any standard prices or standard specifications for remodeling projects. Each quote or estimate you receive reflects what’s included in the actual job that a contractor is planning on completing for you. Asking contractors to price involved projects with preliminary information and then trying to scrutinize the details of the resulting bid will only lead to misjudgments. Every contractor will get better pricing on some things than others. Seeing an item on a proposal that looks high does not mean that everything on the form is overpriced. Seeing lower prices may mean that the contractor will run out of money prior to finishing your project or that the quality of your project will suffer.

Misconception #2 – Going with a low price saves you money!

Think about this for a minute. If you have solicited several bids and go with the contractor that has the lowest bid, you’ve just awarded your job to the guy that just figured out the CHEAPEST way to get your project done!

Is this what you really want?

One of the most common signs of trouble ahead is someone offering to do work for a low price. Like the age-old sayings go: “You get what you pay for!” and “You can’t get something for nothing!” Be extremely careful in choosing your contractor based upon the lowest price. But you may be thinking: “Well, if all things are equal, going with the lowest price is smart buying! Isn’t it?”

Absolutely, 100% yes! But things are almost NEVER, EVER equal in the remodeling business!

Even if you have the most complete set of professional drawings and a twenty-five-page written set of specifications describing every little detail, things can still be vastly different from one contractor to the next.

What is true, though, is the more detail the better. They are critical to helping establish expectations.

The bottom line: NEVER use price alone as the determining factor. Low-priced bids should be cautiously reviewed as it could indicate that the contractor may have left something out in his bid which could lead him to cut corners or have to divide his time working two remodeling projects at the same time so that he can remain afloat while finishing your project.

Many other things should be taken into consideration as well. Whenever you encounter a low-price offer, some questions should immediately come to mind. Questions like:

“Why is the price so low?” “What’s missing here?” and “Has the contractor figured enough into the cost to provide me with the level of service I expect?”

On the other hand, if you have found a contractor that you really feel good about, but their price is more than you can afford or you simply do not want to invest as much as has been quoted, just explain this to the contractor. A professional contractor will welcome the opportunity to help you redesign your project or make whatever changes are necessary in order to better fit your budget. If you are open to scaling back the project, re-examining your priorities, or making other changes, this approach can be very helpful.

Misconception #3 – If the Better Business Bureau doesn’t have any complaints against the contractor, they are probably a safe bet.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is always a good place to start when investigating, but it should not be the stopping point. Even if a contractor doesn’t have any BBB complaints, it does not necessarily mean that you’re working with a reputable professional. We encourage you to investigate the company further.

The BBB is not a governing agency and it does not keep a record of every contractor in town. Many contractors can operate for years doing poor work without ever being reported. Likewise, there may be several very reputable contractors that the BBB has no record of at all.

The best way to utilize the BBB is to check with them to see if the contractor you may be considering has had any complaints against them. If they do, you should consider it an indication that this contractor may not be a good choice. If there are no complaints against the contractor you are investigating, this may indicate a good reputation, however, we strongly encourage you to do research beyond the BBB.

FREE CONSUMER AWARENESS GUIDE

We’ve created a consumer awareness guide, “10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor” to help you know what to look for when finding the right contractor so that you can be completely satisfied with your remodeling project.  This booklet was written so that you will be empowered to make the best decision for your home improvement and remodel. You can have the experience you desire for your home improvement project with the right contractor for you by requesting this free e-Book here.

08 Feb 2021
Sticky Post By Posted in Budget, Build/Design Process, Home Remodel Permalink

How the Design/Build Concept Works

Sticky Post By On February 8, 2021
Renovating your home starts with your dreams and vision for your living space. Most likely, you’ve been envisioning your remodel for a long time and are ready to get started but are unsure of what that is all going to look like.  In this blog, we help you understand how the design/build concept works, our proven process, and what to expect along the way.

HOW THE DESIGN/BUILD CONCEPT WORKS

We have developed a proven process we go through with all our clients that spans from the initial design consultation through construction and then on to completion.
We start by asking several questions to get to know you and your style.  We listen carefully so we can weave our knowledge and creativity with your hopes and dreams to enhance your home.  Our principal objective is to guide you through every aspect of the remodel: from room layout/space plan to the most important detail of your remodel.
Each design phase has similar elements that we craft uniquely to you and the variables involved in your design concept. Your project may include creating hand-drawn renderings or computer-generated 3D views of your new kitchen, bathroom, or floorplan. Each rendering or 3-D view is drawn so that you can preview the feel of your new kitchen or bathroom before construction starts. Throughout project development, our professional designer is there to lead you through each step.

INITIAL CONSULTATION

The initial consultation usually occurs with a phone call where we will discuss your remodeling project.  We answer the questions you have about our process, construction, project management.  Then, we ask several questions, to get to know a little about you, your home and what you envision for your remodel.
Next, we schedule a no-obligation consultation safely in-home or virtually if preferred.  During this consultation we:
  • Explore your space
  • Define the initial Scope of Work
  • Learn more about your lifestyle and preferences
  • Answer the design questions you have
  • Discuss comparable budget ranges from similar projects
If you find we are a good fit: personality, design concept, and estimated budget, we begin our design and pre-construction phase.

DESIGN PHASE

The Design Phase will take our preliminary concepts and budget to the finished design and fixed budget with all selections made. This includes collaborating on all the details which include:
  • Floor plan options
  • Appliance Selection
  • Cabinet styles and color choices
  • Countertop material and slab selection
  • Tile selections including decorative accents for backsplashes, floors, or showers
  • Plumbing features including styles, finishes, and locations
  • Electrical features, lighting fixtures, and their placement
  • Coordinate color choices for all features and walls
Our goal is to create the space(s) that you will be proud of and your family and friends will enjoy.  At Design Phase completion, the plan is in place: every product is specified, each trade partner is on board, the drawings are ready, and the budget is set and approved by you.  Time to execute the plan.

BUILD PHASE

The Plan – our specification documents that itemize all product selections, the scope of the remodel work to complete, drawings of the particulars, and budget amounts – become part of the Construction Contract.  These documents encompass “The Plan” and serve as the guide for our production team.  They work together with our professional designer during the Design Phase to ensure that all construction requirements are met.
Throughout the Build Phase, our Project Manager is there to execute the details of the plan.  The Project Manager is your day-to-day hands-on leader of your remodel and point of contact. As with all the phases of your remodel, communication and collaboration continue until the project is complete.
For high-end home design, build, and remodeling that reflects your vision, our NARI Certified Designers will work hand in hand with you to create a space that not only adds value to your home but brings you joy! Call us at (480) 895-3442 if you would like to discuss your remodeling project with our award-winning designers and builders.
You can view our portfolio here.
09 Dec 2020
Sticky Post By Posted in Budget, Design, Kitchen Remodels, Uncategorized Permalink

8 Steps For Your Successful Kitchen Remodel

Sticky Post By On December 9, 2020

Sitting there with your walls closing in?  Have you redesigned your kitchen, workspace, bathroom, or your entire house while working from home in 2020?!  What a year!  With the end of 2020 near, we are looking forward to 2021 with hope and plans for change. If you are planning to remodel one room, remodeling your kitchen can be a worthy project to tackle in the new year! It will make your home look fabulous, create a better usable space for you and your family while adding to its value. To get started, follow these 8 steps for your successful kitchen remodel.

8 Steps for Your Successful Kitchen Remodel

  1. Consider What You Need in Your Kitchen

Before you even begin making plans for your remodel, consider what you need in your kitchen. Are you planning on cooking every night of the week or are you still going to do take-out most nights? Is this space being used for an office or online learning for your kids? Are you wanting to make your kitchen more of the hub of your home? Once you have all your priorities in order, you can continue to the next steps.

  1. Determine Your Budget

Once you know what you want in your new kitchen, you will need to determine your budget. That way, you will know what type of remodeling you can do. We encourage clients to do online research about appliances.  Most manufacturers will post retail pricing online, so you can add that item specifically to your budget.  Build some space into the budget so that you can plan for unexpected _____________ while also giving you room to add ideas.

  1. Create a Houzz Profile to Research Preliminary Design and Materials Ideas

By creating a preliminary design concept with preliminary materials, you are giving potential contractors an idea of what you are looking for. This will make it easier when you begin looking for estimates. Changes will typically be made to these designs, and most of the time, that is what happens.  We have an award-winning professional designer that will help guide clients through the process of choosing the best materials and design for their dream remodel.

  1. Begin to Get Estimates from Contractors

Now is the time to set up interviews and get estimates from contractors. We never recommend going with the lowest or the highest quote all the time, nor is the one in the middle always the best choice. Instead, you will want to look at the numbers and the answers to the questions that you ask the contractors. Your decision will come down to how comfortable you feel with the contractor that you choose. We have a FREE eBook, 10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor, that can help you with this!

  1. Finalize Design Plans and Choose Materials

Once you have your contractor, you will finalize all your design plans and choose all the materials for your new kitchen. It is important to complete this early in your remodel, so that you do not end up waiting for things that are on back order halfway through the project.

  1. Get Permits

Once in the hands of a contractor or his project manager, the necessary permits are applied to complete the work on your kitchen. There can be a wait time for some of these, so the process is done early in the project to avoid a delay on the start time.

  1. Prepare for Demo

Demolition has its moments, but is typically not fun, especially when it comes to a kitchen. After all, you will be without a kitchen for a few to several weeks. We recommend that you set up a mini kitchen somewhere else in your home so that you can still prepare some simple meals. Also, do not start the demolition process until you are sure everything is in stock for your project, or you may find yourself hanging around waiting halfway through.

  1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

When you are at the end of your project, there may be a few things that will need to be addressed.  Usually, these items are never big because you and your contractor have been communicating all the way through the project. Instead, it might be a small scratch in the paint, a ding in the molding, or a dent in a door panel. These are easy fixes and will get straightened out. Be patient through it all, after all, you’ve made it this far!

Kitchen Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

If you follow these 8 steps for a successful kitchen remodel, you will find your experience to be a good one! And once the project is completed, you will have a kitchen you love. Call us at (480) 895-3442 to discuss remodeling your kitchen with us. Our award-winning designers and builders are happy to show you how we can improve the functionality and style of your kitchen.

Message us here to receive your free eBook from Homework Remodels – 10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

 

16 Sep 2020
Sticky Post By Posted in Bathroom Remodels, Budget Permalink

Why You Should Choose High-Quality Materials for Your Remodel Project

Sticky Post By On September 16, 2020

After coming up with a plan and a budget to remodel your bathroom, discovering and choosing the various types of materials available become your next step. As a professional remodeler, we encourage you to choose high-quality materials for your remodel project. In this case, it makes sense to spend more to get the best you can afford.  If your budget only allows for a partial remodel, you will find it preferable to buying inferior materials that you may have to replace quickly.

Four Reasons Why You Should Choose High-Quality Materials for Your Remodel Project

Attractiveness. Selecting and spending more money on high-quality remodeling materials will help you get the luxurious look you want. While shopping, you will see that items like granite, natural stone, and hardwood can cause your budget to balloon. However, quality materials are still highly desirable despite the cost because they often defy trends and add classic beauty. They can make any bathroom look elegant.

Durability. When you invest in a bathroom remodel, simply put, you want it to last. A higher price is not the only notable feature of quality bathroom remodeling materials. The durability makes the expense worthwhile for many and spending a little more always pays off for years after the work is done.

Low maintenance. In the bathroom, you use a variety of hair/skincare products as well as having potential water stains. Some less expensive materials, like vinyl, can withstand staining, while porous materials like marble can become stained. Generally, however, high-quality materials offer the advantage of easy maintenance, so you can cut the amount of time you spend on cleaning. Also, because of their durability, you will have fewer repairs to deal with over the years.

Less strain on your budget. It is true that quality bathroom materials are more expensive initially, but it is an investment that pays off!  You will not have to deal with frequent repairs typical to replacements done with cheaper materials. Another point to consider is that a beautiful, well-designed bathroom will not need a quick update. So, you could keep the same look for longer, while others are changing features to keep up with the latest trends. When choosing your materials for your remodel, remember that the bathroom is a high traffic area and a lot of moisture to contend with.

Award-Winning Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

You can always save money when remodeling a bathroom, but you should never try to cut corners when it comes to picking the best materials. Ultimately, this will cost you more and leave you unhappy with your renovation.  As an award-winning remodeler, Tri-lite Builders specializes in remodeling bathrooms, kitchens, and entire homes to increase the overall functionality and design of the home.  Check out our portfolio here! We have helped many Phoenix area homeowners remodel their homes to achieve their ultimate goal.

Free, no-obligation in-home or virtual consultations

Get your project off the ground by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or emailing [email protected] to discuss remodeling your home, kitchen, or bathroom.  We offer a 60-minute no-obligation in-home or virtual consultations. Our award-winning designers and craftsman are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!

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