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A Home Improvement Contractor Checklist
By Gregg Hicks
How to make sure you choose a reasonably priced, reliable home improvement contractor.
A home improvement project is a major investment. Much time, effort and money will go into creating home improvements to make your home more enjoyable, livable and more valuable. The success level of your project will depend primarily on the person at the head of the project, namely, your home improvement contractor.
The home improvement contractor you hire should be able to schedule, coordinate, plan and activate those plans to provide you with the results you want in a timely and efficient manner. The abilities of the home improvement contractor you choose will determine the overall success of your home improvement project.
Home improvement centers, online sites and friends and neighbors are all good places to begin your search for a good home improvement contractor. It's a good idea to try to get at least three home improvement contractors to give you a quote on your project.
Home Improvement Contractor
As you choose your home improvement contractor make sure you give each contractor the same set of plans or specifications to bid by. You want to make sure they all have the information and requirements. When you choose your home improvement contractor make sure you are comparing each contractor against the same checklist.
The checklist should include things like checking references, checking with the Better Business Bureau, comparing materials quality, comparing the timeline for completion, the professionalism of the quote and of course the price. The person with the lowest price may not always offer the best bargain.
To ensure that you're getting the most reliable and highest quality home improvement contractor the materials they will be using should be investigated thoroughly. Sometimes a contractor with a lower bid may be using less than optimal materials. Make sure you check everything on your list before you make a final decision.
Professional home improvement contractors will have everything written in a professional contract before they begin the work. Read the contract carefully and get answers to any questions you have before you sign the agreement. Taking the time to choose your home improvement contractor carefully will give you the reward of a professionally completed project you can enjoy now and in the future.
This article was written by Gregg Hicks of http://www.reliableremodeler.com which provides Internet-based home improvement information and services. Offering homeowners a simple, quick, and free way to access, qualified home improvement remodeling contractors.
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Top Ten Standards to Look For a Home Improvement Contractor
By Sandy Hannerty
Finding a quality home improvement contractor is not always easy. Anybody can sell you on something that sounds great, but how can you know if you're really dealing with a quality company? Home improvement companies come in all varieties, from shysters to newbies to companies that have been in business for decades. These ten tips will help you pick out the best fit for you no matter what kind of company, from a replacement window contractor to a roofer, you may need.
1) Does the company offer free estimates?
Never go with a company that doesn't value a relationship with you enough to do a free estimate. When you pick a company you'll be spending quite a bit of money with them, so they should be willing to invest a bit of time in you.
2) Does the company offer an honest estimate? Is it detailed?
Many people don't know that there's a difference between an estimate and a bid. A bid is a legally binding statement, while an estimate is not. Some unscrupulous companies will pitch a too-low estimate to sell to you then and then hit you on the back end with "fees" they tacked on. If you get detailed, realistic prices and time frames, you increase the odds that it's an honest estimate. In addition, the detailed estimate gives you legal recourse if the company does work you didn't authorize.
3) What kind of customer guarantee does the home improvement company give?
How long do you have to report problems? What kind of certification can a given home improvement contractor give you on his or her workers? What kind and quality of materials do they use? You should be asking these questions in the initial meeting and get it in writing on any contract. If the answers are vague or deceptive, run.
4) How willing is the company to work with your schedule?
Of course, you don't necessarily want people in your home you don't know. However, some home improvement jobs can take several days or even a couple of weeks? If the job is only on the outside, say you're getting a roof replaced, you don't necessarily have to be there. However, if entering your home is required, are they willing to work with your schedule?
5) Is the contractor insured, and what protection do you get out of it? Do you have any liability?
Let's say you're having your roof fixed and a worker falls off into your bushes, breaking his or her arm. Who's responsible for taking that worker to the hospital, who's responsible for paying the bill, and who ultimately is liable for what? Any decent company is insured and does not hold you liable for accidents common in the line of work. Get all liability spelled out in the contract.
6) Is the contractor truly knowledgeable in the area you want improved?
If you're wanting energy-efficient windows replaced then a "general contractor" who's done roofing for fifteen years probably is not the right contractor for you. Make sure the home improvement contractor you pick has plenty of in-depth detailed experience with the specific improvements you're having done.
7) Does the company belong to the local Better Business Bureau?
BBB seals don't always mean a lot on the Internet, but they still pull their weight locally. If, for instance, you live in Cincinnati, Ohio and you want to know a contractor's worth, the contractor that's part of the local Better Business Bureau has been around for years and has a reputation to maintain, while one who isn't may be a fly-by-night company.
8) Does the company offer financing? If so, is it legitimate?
Some companies are large enough to be able to offer their own financing. Others don't want to deal with the headache of an entire finance department. If contractor-provided financing is important to you, be clear on that when first talking to contractors. If one offers you financing, check it out thoroughly. Are they doing it in house? Do they have an arrangement with a bank? Do they charge a reasonable interest rate or too high? When do payments start? Any financing is, at heart, the extension of a line of credit. If the company isn't doing the same checks as a credit card company, look twice.
9) Does the contractor have offices you can visit?
Some contractors are one-person specialist affairs and may even work out of a home office, while others are larger companies with their own offices. No matter what kind or size of contractor you're dealing with, you should be able to visit an office. You're not going to get home improvement from a company across the country, you're going to get it locally. Therefore, their physical offices should be accessible and professional. If you can't visit their office the company could easily be a fly-by-night operation to take your deposit and disappear.
10) Can you get references you can look up and call on your own? Would any references be willing to have you visit to see examples of the home improvement company's work?
This one should be a no-brainer, but all too often it's a detail that gets overlooked in the furor of home improvement contracting. Can you see examples of their work? Can to talk to people they've done work for in the past? Just one reference doesn't cut it, nor do three who you can't find in the phone book. Anyone can pretend to be three different people, and it's easy to get call forwarding for three different numbers.
Written by City Sash Home Improvement, Copyright 2008, All rights reserved.
To find out more about home improvement contractors come visit City Sash Home Improvement at http://www.citysash.com today.
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Things to Remember During a Home Improvement and Remodeling Project
By Frank Llewelyn
As remodeling projects surge, there is a huge demand for home improvement and remodeling contractors. But not all projects meet their logical conclusion. There are many horror stories about remodeling projects gone wrong. Here are a few things that you ought to know before you embark on a home improvement project:
- Hiring a Contractor: A general contractor is one who ensures that an architect's plans are carried out flawlessly. He/she arranges for the materials required for the job, the skilled/unskilled workmen, and also taking care of other minor issues like contracting insurance etc. He charges a fixed price-usually 15-25 per cent above the cost of materials and labor. However, this would largely depend on the nature and the complexity of the job. You can save on these costs by acting as a general contractor for your project. But this isn't a job for the faint-hearted. There are a hundred things to be taken care of, and a hundred worries to address. More often than not, it becomes very difficult to hire an architect who agrees to work with you.
- Before you hire the contractor, make sure you speak to the references and are convinced about the quality of their work. Friends and family members can also help you with references. You can also choose to hire them through online reference sites like Angie's List.
- Decide on the work on that you want to carry on. Would you like to carry on an exterior, or an interior work? If finances are an issue, consider only the exteriors. It may take anywhere from three months to more than a year to complete the project.
- Finance is a concern, but don't cut a corner just to save money. People often end up 'penny wise and pound foolish' when they buy cheap and unwarranted things. You often end up spending more money than you would have saved, had you gone ahead with the costs. But yes, quality products can be recycled to be used again. Paint and tiles are among the list of things where it isn't prudent to cut costs. The same goes for employing professionals. Jobs like electric wiring and plumbing aren't meant for every DIY enthusiast. It's best to go for professionals with the best qualifications.
These are just some of the points to be considered, and following them ensures that your project is completed without a hitch.
The author of this article is experienced in the home improvement and remodeling [http://www.webcontracting.biz/home-improvement-remodeling/] industry, and writes articles to help people on various construction related issues including choosing a general contractor [http://www.webcontracting.biz/general-contractor/].
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Important Factors to Consider When You Hire a Home Improvement or Remodeling Contractor
By Steven A Morono
You have been dreaming of that new recreation room addition to your house for over a year now. You saved your money or built-up equity in your home to pay for it. Now, you are ready to go. But, where do you go to get a quality home improvement contractor that will complete the work on time, for a far price, and still do a good job?
There is an old axiom that states that there are three factors for every project. The first one, we will call option "A", is time, how long will the project take to complete. The next factor, "B", is quality and features. How good and how must stuff. The third factor is the "C" factor and that is Money! How much?
You now have a choice, you can pick any two factors but, you cannot have all three. If you want the job done on time and completed on schedule then you can spend a lot of money and get the quality and features you want (A+B). If you want the job completed on time for a low cost then, you will not have many features or the quality will suffer (A+C). Finally, if time is not an issue, go with the B+C choice. High quality at a fair cost but, will take time.
When it comes to home improvement contractors there are general categories that they will all fit into. The first category I like to call the "Bob Vila" of contractors. Very well known, an excellent reputation, has all of the right licenses and insurance, provides very high quality work, and all work is completed on schedule. This is by far the best type of contractor to hire if money is no object! Expect to pay considerably more than your average contractor. A good rule of thumb is to figure the material costs, plus the labor costs, and double that. This is what the average turn-key project will cost if you hire a general contractor, not a Bob Villa. Add about 50% more for this category of contractor. Check references however, this contractor will not give you anyone that has anything bad to say.
The next option is the contracting company that has their own employees. This company will take the whole job from start to finish. I call this the "turn-key" contractor. If the company is good, they will be booked for months in advance. This is the "Time Factor". If you have the time to find this company, check the references, and visit some of the job sites, this may be your best choice. Be sure to do a good reference check and make sure you know the questions to ask! Of course they will only give you the names of satisfied customers.
A new choice entering into the market is a cooperative. This is not a new idea, but new to home improvement. Just like the farmers co-ops that have been around for years, contractors and sub-contractors have banned together to share the overhead costs. Cost such as advertising, a very large part of the budget. By combining their funds and run one large ad in a major newspaper, for example, they can have many sub-contractors in non-competing trades.
They may have a electrician, a few plumbers, drywall subs and so-on. I can think of about 90 different categories. The idea of a co-op is to combine resources for the common good of the group. The co-op has standards to prevent poor workmanship and dishonest members. The co-op's reputation is on the line.
The last choice and I do mean last, is the low-ball contractor. Low price almost always means low quality. Face it, you get what you pay for. Get three bids, and unless you know all of the trades and are very familiar with the project you should be very cautious about the lowest one. Why is it lower? You should always do an extensive check on this company. It would be worth it to hire a third party firm to check out the company.
Well, good luck on your project!
For more information go to http://www.baymore.net23.net
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Choosing a Contractor for Home Improvement and Remodeling
By Frank Llewelyn
When done with care and caution, home improvement and remodeling projects add value to your home. But if have ever been involved in such a project, I'm sure you would agree that it is indeed challenging. The most important part of the job is to find a contractor who can carry on with the job seamlessly and efficiently. Here are a few pointers to help you find the right contractor:
1) Ask for referrals: If you have engaged an architect to design and supervise the remodeling, he can help you assess the contractor's qualifications and verify his claims about past performance. Architects work in tandem with contractors during home remodeling projects, and hence are a good source to ask for references. You can also ask for references from friends and family; preferably someone who has completed a home project within the last year. Their experience with the contractor can help you zero in on the right professional.
2) Credentials: Ensure that the contractor is registered and possesses the required licenses from various state and local bodies to undertake home remodeling. A licensed construction company ensures that his employees are covered under the Worker's Compensation Act, thus protecting you from liability in case of a problem. Make sure to verify for contractor certification issued by the city's contractor's licensing authority/board, and the liability insurance certificate. Reputed contractors usually provide these details without asking.
3) Check references: The internet is a great source to help you find a contractor of your choice. People are honest about their experiences and provide candid feedback about the job. There are plenty of sites that provide information and reviews about contractors. Of course, word of mouth is still the best source, but if you are starved of time, this is ideal. Besides, you can always check with the Better Business Bureau to know if there are complaints filed against the general contractor.
4) Obtaining Written Estimates: Professional contractors provide a written estimate of the job, thereby allowing you to compare between the different quotes. And these quotes are always comprehensive to include the cost of raw materials, service charges and other miscellaneous charges. Make sure that you obtain a quote from at least 3 contractors.
5) Interviewing Prospective Contractors: Once you've made a list of prospective contractors after checking for their references, quotes and experiences, make sure to set up a meeting where you can discuss about the details of the project.
The author of this article has expertise in hospital construction [http://www.webcontracting.biz/hospital-construction/]. The articles on home improvement and remodeling [http://www.webcontracting.biz/home-improvement-remodeling/] reveals the author's knowledge on the same. The author is a contractor and owns a construction company as well.
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Finding the Right Home Improvement and Remodeling Contractor
By Frank Llewelyn
Renovated homes always increase the value of a home. It is estimated that Americans spend around $114.6 billion on home renovation projects with an average construction project costs anywhere around $45,000. The scale of work ranges from simple carpentry jobs to adding/remodeling bathrooms or kitchens or even converting rooms. With so much investment, it indeed makes sense to choose home improvement and remodeling contractors with care.
Statistics at the New York Times Department of Consumer Affairs reveal that complaints about home improvement contractors far outnumber all other categories. Here's a quick guide to help you find the right contractor:
- The first thing before hiring a contractor is to make sure that he has a license. Almost all states follow strict guidelines before issuing a license. Contractors are required to clear criminal background tests, written examination, and are charged a license fee. In some places like New York and Nassau, they are even required to pay a bond through a trust fund which is used to compensate consumers who were affected by shoddy and less than professional work.
- Licenses may not be a complete guarantee of the contractor's professionalism, but at least they give the state to move on behalf of the consumer.
- Make sure that you read the contract terms and conditions in detail. Even the smartest people have faced problems because they failed to read the contract. Paying a contractor in cash also isn't a good idea, because more often than not, it ends up in a dispute.
- And if possible, consult an architect or other specialist. People often ignore this. Homeowners are not always specific about conveying ideas to the contractor. This can sometimes prove to be a costly mistake and even involve changing the entire project. But an architect can ensure that the message is conveyed to the contractor clearly. The blue print drawn by an architect leaves little room for mistakes, because you can't have a contractor who can come with excuses saying, 'you didn't tell that to me before'.
- Make sure that a penalty clause is included in the contract. As stated earlier home improvement and remodeling jobs aren't cheap. A penalty clause would bind the contractor in finishing the project on time.
- You can also ask the contractor to provide an experienced foreman to handle the project. While this may increase costs, this would indeed be a bargain when compared to the expenses incurred because of inadequate supervision.
The author of this article writes about trending topics in the construction industry including hospital construction [http://www.webcontracting.biz/hospital-construction/] and home improvement and remodeling [http://www.webcontracting.biz/home-improvement-remodeling/].
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Professional Trash Removal: The Last Stages of Home Improvement and Remodeling Projects
By Maria Allen
Whether you are remodeling your home, renovating a rental property, or just cleaning out a large garage, finding a reputable trash removal service is an indispensable part of your large-scale home project. Junk hauling, the final stage of any home improvement process, is one that most people are not able
to undertake themselves.
That's why your best bet is to find a high-quality, professional company to assist in safely removing the trash from your property. When it's time to physically remove all waste after a home improvement project is completed, a professional garbage removal company will take the necessary steps to ensure that the job is completed safely, thoroughly, and on time.
A common question from people getting started on a home improvement or renovation is: "Why can't I simply put the waste from my home improvement project out on the curb, like I do with the rest of my household garbage?" Although many residents may not be aware, your community or local government (township, city, etc.) has strict codes in place to regulate residential trash limits. Local codes stipulate the size of the trash containers that may be used for household refuse or the number of bags that each household is permitted to put out per trash collection.
In addition, nearly all areas place restrictions on certain items. Most notably, many areas do not permit residents to put concrete debris, large lumber scraps, or renovation materials out for local pickup. This is where a professional junk hauling business becomes essential. Your best option is to check with your local municipality in order to get the most up-to-date information on local trash and recycling regulations. If your project involves waste that is not accepted by your local garbage collectors, a trash hauler is the easiest solution for getting that refuse collected and removed.
In addition, many of these trash removal companies can also be hired on a contract basis to perform demolition work if you don't have the capacity to take care of it on your own. Many times a home renovation includes tearing down an existing wall or other large structure; however, if you don't have the tools, manpower, or knowledge to take care of it yourself, this work can be very difficult and even dangerous. That's when hiring a professional demolition contractor to perform the work would be your best bet. Then, following the demolition, the same company can then be responsible for the corresponding trash removal.
So when you're getting ready to budget for that big home improvement project or major spring cleanup you've been planning, don't forget to include the cost of a reputable and professional garbage removal service. This will ensure that you aren't left "holding the bag" when you're done! Maria Allen is a home improvement hobbyist and an Internet marketing specialist for Prospect Genius, providing local businesses with effective online advertising services.
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Tired of Living in Cramped Quarters? Choose Home Improvement Remodeling Instead of Moving
By Sam A Stout
Going through the hassle and expense of buying a new place isn't always the best route to landing the home of your dreams. Whether you have recently welcomed a new member to your family, taken on the responsibility of caring for an aging parent, or simply outgrown the style and look of your existing residence, you're much more likely to fulfill your particular requirements by working with a licensed home improvement contractor than by poring over the real estate pages.
For one thing, even if you are lucky enough to find a place in the real estate listings that more or less meets your needs, you'll probably still have to hire a home improvement contractor to bring about the finishing touches. Every residential property varies in terms of size, space, and interior layout. The only sure way to get what you want is to be the one calling the shots.
And that's not even taking into account any pressing time requirements. By using a home improvement remodeling company to expand or upgrade the property you already own, you can skip all the time-consuming trouble of dealing with real estate agents, packing up belongings, and filling out reams of paperwork. No movers or mortgage closings are necessary when all you're really doing is adding on an extra bedroom or expanding an outdated kitchen.
Home additions are especially convenient for property owners who are happy with the schools and other nearby attractions in their local communities. Why pack up and leave when you can stay in the area you love and still enjoy larger, more spacious accommodations with a timely and affordable property renovation? Not only will a custom home addition allow you to keep your current location, but you also won't have to worry about uprooting your kids or missing out on services and facilities you've come to appreciate.
As for property value, putting an extension on your home can be a great way to build equity and secure the monetary worth of your real estate investment. As families grow and lifestyle changes arise, many homeowners find it necessary to add on another bedroom or expand their available space through kitchen or bath remodeling. In fact, whatever type of home remodeling project you have in mind, it can be achieved faster, easier, and for a lot less money than you may think by turning to a home improvement contractor instead of a real estate agent.
Why not compare the actual numbers for yourself? Simply contact local home improvement contractors in your area to discuss the details of your desired bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen remodeling project and obtain price estimates in person. Dollar for dollar, you're probably far better off adding on than you would be moving out.
Sam Stout is a home improvement enthusiast and an Internet marketer for Prospect Genius, a leader in SEO advertising.
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Helpful Tips on Choosing a Home Improvement Contractor
By Audrey Ledoux
Making changes to your home is personal, and the last thing people want to do is hire someone who really doesn't understand what you want or how you want it. Home improvement is absolutely a worthwhile investment, but if you're planning on staying in your home for a while it's important that the remodeling is done to absolute perfection.
With that said, how do you choose the right home remodeling contractor? What are important questions to ask before hiring one? Here are some helpful tips on hiring the right home remodeling contractor:
1) A home improvement company should always offer a free consultation with the general contractor or estimator. If they charge for a consultation, they're probably a small company who hasn't been in business long enough to know what they're doing.
2) The most important thing you should look for at the consultation is the interest level and care of the person you are meeting with. Are they rushed and impatient, or are they interested in what you're saying and communicating their own ideas to help you? Is their appearance sloppy and dirty, or are they professional? You might think that being in the business of home improvements, looking sloppy isn't necessarily a bad thing. But remember that an individual with self-respect will be more likely to have respect and care for others.
3) Don't look at the cheapest price as the most important decision-making point. Do look at what previous clients have said, as well as samples of past products. A cheap home improvement contractor may sound nice since you could save a few hundred dollars, but the amount you may spend in later repairs due to unprofessional or unfinished work could result in costs up to triple the amount you previously "saved".
4) Find out what the home improvement contractor offers in terms of future repairs. If you are getting your kitchen remodeled, as an example, find out what they offer if something breaks down or needs repair. Professional home remodeling contractors will repair or fix broken parts at little or no cost. Check what they guarantee and what they offer - the last thing you want to do is turn your new sink on which then doesn't work, and find that your home remodeling contractor has disappeared or will not fix it.
4) Above all else, trust your instinct. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about a home remodeling contractor, find another one. An investment like home improvement is something you should be sure of and happy about. After all, it's your home we're talking about.
Home Improvement is a large industry and is very competitive. The majority of home improvement contractors are professional and have a high percentage of satisfied clients, so finding one that's right for you is pretty simple. These are just a few tips that can help you along the way.
Audrey Ledoux is a home remodeling specialist for Albuquerque. See more of Audrey's work at http://www.wildwoodremodeling.com
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Hire a General Contractor For Home Improvement
By Cullen Martini
Home improvement is never easy. It gets even more complicated for first time homeowners or those considering doing such tasks themselves. When you decide to take up the role of a general contractor, you will find yourself totally exhausted for lots of reasons like using the wrong tools, adopting incorrect methods, or you might even end up destroying some surfaces and leaving them worse than they were initially; which would be counterproductive as it would lead to bigger costs. Whether you live in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, or Queens, it is strongly recommended that you get a general contractor for your home improvement.
The contractor works with professional networks required for better results
Contractors who have been in the same business for some time will ensure that you get the most qualified person to complete the task. It might be impossible to carry the entire task alone. In fact even a contractor will not be able to complete the entire task alone. So, a professional maintains important networks of professionals; they will always be able to bring others within a specialized field aboard to help them complete the tasks. Because of these networks, you can expect any work ordered to be completed in a timely and organized manner.
General contractors guarantee their work
By getting professional to do your home improvements, you are able to get guarantees on the work done for you. Remember that results are faster and that there is a greater focus on high quality. Hire a reliable company if you want the best results that will last.
They understand all the building codes and legal requirements
For your safety, all reliable contractors follow the laid down rules and professional standards set by their industry. These can only be achieved when you hire professionals who have applied the same standards for many years. They are not only expert in legals but they also come with key policy covers that protect your house, properties, employees, and even safeguard you against mediocre results.
Trust professionals
The fact that general contractors work on home improvement for a living, means they are able to concentrate more on the work and even take more time on it. This is difficult for the average person as they are likely to be preoccupied with other tasks. Avoid risking your house and time for results you cannot be certain of, hire a general contractor company for optimal results.
New age Global Builders is a General contractor in greater Manhattan that can help you with the Kitchen Island of your dreams. Their services spread from Queens, West to Manhattan and most of the Tri-state area.
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Estimating Home Improvement Projects
By Eugene G. Makeev
More and more homeowners are turning to home improvement to transform their New York homes to ideally fit the needs of the family, realize their dreams of luxury and style, make everyday life a whole lot more convenient, boost property value, or just any other reasons. One of the most crucial factors when jumping into the bandwagon is the right budget. The more accurate the estimate, the closer you are to achieving project success. To get to this, here are essential things to know about estimating home improvement projects ideal whether you are in Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn or Staten Island.
Estimating your planned home improvement project is a crucial task that should be taken carefully. Falling short on budget can cause grave issues such as an incomplete project, an inferior result, or financial instability that can lead to debts that can easily snowball into other problems.
If you haven't done anything similar to the home improvement you have in mind, then getting an estimate would be the best way to start your project. This would get you a good idea on how much the entire project would cost thus helping you get financially prepared and preventing a busted budget. Just as no two houses are exactly the same; your specifications would vary with that of others even for the same project. There are a lot of factors that affect the overall cost and asking around for other homeowners who have had done something similar would be the roughest assessment you can get.
When estimating home improvement projects, the easiest and fastest way to get one is through using an online remodeling calculator from any renovation and home improvement or contractor website. But the closest and most accurate estimate you can get is one from a reputable professional or contractor company.
There are various factors that will affect your home improvement project estimate and these are:
Scope of the Project - this includes the size of the room or rooms that you plan on improving. What materials and supplies you want to integrate into the project. How you envision the project finish and what are the methods and steps to take to achieve the specific look, feel and functionality.
Labor Trends and Regional Pricing - fact is, remodeling costs will differ depending on the state that you are in. This proves true for both contractor fee as well as material costs.
Labor Fees - There are choices when it comes to managing home improvement projects and this includes: managing it yourself, getting a general contractor or hiring a project manager part-time or full time. Each option has its pros and cons and deciding on which depends on your experience, preference, budget and availability. Aside from the labor trends in different states, other factors that will affect contractor fee are specialization/s, experience, skills and even how well established and well-reputed the contractor or company is in the industry.
One of the greatest tips when undergoing home improvement projects is to allot a budget that is more than that of the estimated amount. By allowing flexibility in your finances, unexpected expenses that may arise throughout the project (which are not uncommon), can be accommodated efficiently before the problem balloons. If you have to save, then choose to do so in a smart way. Cut costs without sacrificing quality and you can do this by buying materials on sale and scheduling work at off-peak seasons.
Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help homeowners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid the common remodeling pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened Contractors New York. Get your remodeling estimates today!
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Choosing The Right Home Remodelling Companies
By Thomas Myre
In this article we are talking about the ways to choose the right home remodeling company for your house.
Home remodeling or redoing the very words bring an image of a stylish home with the perfect home decor you dream all the time. But all these beautiful thoughts can actually get crumbling down when you choose a wrong home modeling company. Obviously there is no company who claims that they are bad in their service. Hence there are some criteria that you should check before you hire such a company to do the renovations and change in your house. Always remember that after the work is done there lies little on your capacity to alter things.
Tips On Choosing The Right Home Remodelling Company
� When choosing a home remodeling company, explore all types of contacts you know off. You can search online to find a good company and in this case testimonial of clients is an important yardstick. The best way is to check those that are established near your house for some years. Another reliable way in which you can get hold of a good company is through contacts from friends, relatives and neighbours.
� Always ask whether the company has a proper license and specially liability insurance of the contractor of that company who would be working in your house.
� Sometimes we often make some initial planning of the remodelling of the house. A good home remodeling company is one who would not like to impose on you with new plans rather they would try work on your plan and make it better according to taste.
� Such a company should always have strict policies from their end which actually speaks high of their professionalism. This is important especially when they give the deadlines of the work. In case of failure to finish within the deadline the clauses or compensations has to be clearly written in the contract.
� The more details are the expenses given by the company the better it is. It helps you to assess the cost of every item and also helps you to make any alterations in the remodeling project if the expenses go beyond your budget.
� Home remodeling may include either working on the entire house or parts of it specially kitchen or bathroom. In case you want kitchen or bathroom redoing, it is always better to call those companies who are specialized in these jobs. They always have more number of plans and designs to offer.
Always remember that if you stay in an apartment it is imperative to tell the other residents of the apartment and specially your neighbours as during the work, sound and commotion is sure to take place.
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Home Remodeling Tips to Increase Your Property's Real Estate Value
By Oded Nahum
Curious about what the current trends for remodeling will bring? The remodeling sector is bound for a significant growth in 2011 because of the wide availability of options available for consumers who would want to revive their own living spaces. According to statistics, a home sells quicker and increases its value even if only two major areas are remodeled- the bathroom and the kitchen. But it wouldn't be that bad either to consider other areas in your home such as the deck, patio, bedrooms, and etc.
Save Money by Renovating your Bathroom
If you think your bathroom tiles are starting to get a little grungy, then perhaps this 2011 is a year for you to get a bathroom makeover. A new bathroom remodeling project may cost you as much as $20,000 for remarkable results. But if you are planning on selling your residential property, then maybe some 'perk me ups' can help bring your bathroom updated. Add necessary lighting fixtures on your bathroom. Update your cabinets with fresh paint and brand new cabinet pulls. Select popular wall colors for a fresh and faux finish. Change old faucet and sink units with a stylish new one. Make sure you replace cracked tiles and re glaze dull tub and tiles.
Warming Up your Haven
Warmer wall and tile color are coming back into house design trends. Individuals are now moving away from the minimalist approach to home designs in favor of cozy and warm earth tones. The trend is not something really rustic. It is more of a mashed up earthiness coupled with the contemporary designs. Consumers are now more into something contemporary but calming and not something totally modern. Along with these warm tones, metallic features are also getting into the trend. Aged bronze, oiled bronze and distressed hardware are expected to make it big this year.
Reviving your Kitchen Space
A great way for you to jumpstart a home renovation project is by starting in your kitchen. Be forewarned that this room can become a major money pit if your budget isn't something carefully planned and worked out. The key here is to find a design that will appeal to a wide spectrum of home buyers within a price that is 2 miles radius from your remodeling project. A good way for you to know is to drop by kitchen remodeling Los Angeles companies or perhaps a local home supply shop and find out the best selling pieces they have this year. While you are searching, make sure you consider remodeling ideas that will fit into your home's local neighborhood. Avoid the urge to upgrade beyond your house's value and personality. Brand new appliances are always the most expensive and needed remodeling features.
Get Decked Out
More and more homeowners these days are building ample outdoor spaces for themselves. It appears that people are beginning to adopt the simple lifestyle of sitting outside a patio and staying home frequently. There are plenty of pools that are also being built within neighborhoods.
Extra Relaxation Home Spaces
Residential property values are still falling in many states and there is a prediction for three more lousy years in the real estate industry. No wonder then that many home owners are more stressed. And when it comes to creating new spaces, tranquility is always a major consideration. Many people are now thinking about zen bathrooms that are soothing and relaxing to the senses.
To learn more about kitchen remodeling and bathroom remodeling tips, visit our site and blog at http://www.cavalierbuildersinc.com.
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5 Questions to Ask Every Home Remodeling Contractor Before You Meet
By Bryan Sebring
Contractors receive a lot of phone calls a year. These calls can range from adding extra space in your basement to redesigning a dated kitchen into a chef's dream. We suggest for you to start with a 10 to 20 minute conversation. During this initial conversation we ask 5 key questions of our clients: where, what, when, why & how much. From there we end up setting up in home consultations with 200 to 250 qualified clients. Approximately 70% of the people that call us, are not the right fit for our project niche. So what makes a client "qualified" or a project "not the right fit"? These are great questions and things you should be focused on when interviewing contractors. The days when any contractor was good at doing any type of remodeling to your home are gone. The jack of all trades tends to be the master of none. Meeting with contractors can be a significant time commitment for both you and all involved. So before you set up an appointment it's best for you to ask a few key questions over the phone to help ensure that an in-person meeting will be time well spent.
1. Am I Located in Your Service Area?
Not every contractor will travel long distances. Most have restrictions based on travel time. I have found by keeping projects to a limited geographical area, typically means a faster response time, which you should consider a plus. Being close to your house means better customer service. If you are located outside a remodeling contractor's service area, you may consider asking them for a recommendation of another company that is closer.
2. Is My Project Something You Specialize In?
Many contractors restrict the type of projects they perform, keep in mind this is a good thing! Before you call any contractors, write down on paper a short description of your project. For example "I want to remodel our small kitchen and it will involve removing some structural walls." Not every home remodeling contractor has experience dealing with relocating of load bearing walls. So ask the question and make sure your project is something they are interested in working on and that they are set up to handle as well.
3. Can You Complete My Project by My Deadline?
This can be a difficult question for a contractor to answer because it involves how quickly you can make decisions. Some homeowners are really good at making selection and design decisions quickly. Some homeowners need time to think about these things. If you are just beginning this process, it may be many months before the plans and permits are ready. Remember two things: 1) a good home remodeling contractor should be in demand and typically carry a backlog of work and 2) rushing through the design process can ruin a project. So take your time.
4. Why are You a Home Remodeling Contractor?
This may sound like a weird question, but the more you get to know "their why" the more you will connect with the company you hire. I tell our clients all the time, in the beginning treat the meetings and phone calls with contractors like a first date. Would you want to see this person and their staff everyday for 2-6 months? Find out why they love doing what they do, find out their mission statement, their beliefs. Make sure their beliefs line up with your core beliefs. Because when you sign that agreement, you enter into a short term marriage. This marriage can be a long term trusting relationship or it can end in a nasty divorce. And the only ones that are happy in a divorce are the lawyers.
5. My Budget Range for this Project is in a Range of $X to $Y. Is this Realistic?
I use budget ranges to help our customers down a path of less frustration. Almost like a restrictor plate on a race car. Good designers have a lot of great ideas, but if you can't afford these exotic materials or designs, why waste your time. Talking about money can be uncomfortable, but it's important, particularly if you have a specific amount you want to spend. So do your research on approximate remodeling pricing so you feel more confident in your discussions. Be honest with your contractor! If you don't trust the contractor with this important information, you shouldn't move forward with them. If you are looking for a great website that can help with budgeting check out: Remodeling Magazine: Cost vs. Value
One last tip: Make sure to have a phone conversation, not email. You really need to get an idea if your personalities will fit, email doesn't give you an idea of how they will be in person. So make sure to have a frank honest conversation. By the end of the call you should be able to answer these two questions: Is this contractor Qualified to do my project and will the company be the Right Fit?
Bryan Sebring is Certified Graduate Remodeler and owner of Sebring Services, a remodeling firm located in Naperville, Illinois. Download our free eBook: Remodeling 101 http://www.sebringservices.com/remodeling-101/
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Kitchen Remodeling - Connect With Your Family in a Kitchen Great Room
By Bruce G Pinsler
A kitchen is where families bond together while eating or just hanging out while meals are being prepared. It is the one place where families actually congregate with each other and talk. Unfortunately in many older homes kitchens are smaller and can't accommodate the whole family.
There has been a recent trend in new homes and remodeled kitchens, to create a kitchen "great room. A great room is a kitchen that combines a traditional kitchen with comfortable living space that includes an area for family relaxation. By creating such a space, it allows mom to prepare meals while having a space for the children to play or watch TV at the same time. By combining the two living spaces into one larger space, a family can truly create an area that becomes the hub of home life.
When remodeling an existing kitchen, it is imperative to have a design that is functional for preparing meals, yet is a place that the family will want to spend time in when they are not eating. Before you decide if creating a kitchen great room is for you, you must determine your budget for your kitchen remodel. The budget will help you determine if you can create your dream kitchen. It will also help you prioritize the importance of each aspect of the project. Should the money be spent on appliances or cabinets? How important are the counter tops or kitchen flooring? These are questions that one must ponder before actually proceeding with the kitchen remodel.
Once a budget has been set, it is time to locate a remodeling company. A quality kitchen remodeler will have a design staff that will be able to help you create an overall layout, including kitchen blueprints. They will also have factory-direct access to cabinetry, counter tops, flooring and windows at wholesale prices. The final piece of the puzzle is that your kitchen remodeler have a trained installation team. You should always make sure that your installers are bonded and insured.
The kitchen remodeling business is a competitive industry. You will find many companies that do kitchen design in your local market. It is suggested that you interview at least three kitchen remodelers, asking each to provide you with a written estimate. Most reputable remodelers will provide this estimate free of charge.
After you have received your bids, it is suggested that you do more research on the kitchen contracting companies. Most will furnish references on request. The internet is another great place to research kitchen remodelers, with customer reviews and testimonials readily available. Another friendly tip is to check to see if your kitchen remodeling company is listed with the Better Business Bureau.
If you are looking for a kitchen remodeling company in the Chicago Area, please consider Galaxie Home Remodeling. Galaxie is a full-service Home Improvement company with two locations. They are a top-rated Chicago kitchen remodeling company with the Better Business Bureau.
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Rejuvenate Your Home With the Help of the Best Remodeling Companies
By Richard Mehta
Looking younger is always an attraction and it does not mean that only living beings need to be younger. How inorganic things can be younger? How is it possible? These are the questions that would be arising in your mind once you read the above lines. Our house is a inorganic thing, but it acts as a living thing when we live there and also it should look younger since it is a place where we live. House is a place where you live for a long time and it is a place that provides you safety, peace and happiness for your entire family so rejuvenate your home in an efficient manner and look for best remodeling companies who provide you all phase renovations.
When you decided to remodel your house, look for the companies that have more years of experience and provides you all kinds of home remodeling services. Home remodeling is not an easy task and it involves various steps and it needs to be remodeled from top to bottom. Home improvement is not only remodeling your house in the outer side, it needs to be remodeled from outer to inner that is from kitchen to roof. While remodeling give care to both interior and exterior designs and many of us wish to have an artistic interior design, for that you need to get a clear idea about interior design through newspapers, magazines and internet where they have provided lots of information about it.
Most of the remodeling companies give you the idea for designs, but it is best if we have some idea on it. Remodeling your house is not an expense for you it brings you profit only. Suppose if you decide to sell your house in future and if the buyer gets impressed by your house design and construction, you gain profit because of your house construction. So do not feel hard to invest in this remodeling process and home remodeling involves various services such as kitchen, additions, bathrooms, roofing, flooring, electrical, driveways, windows, texture coatings, stucco, patio enclosures and concrete. So select remodels who provide you all these services in a best way with quality work and with customer satisfaction.
When you select the remodeling companies look for the following things such as their years of experience, knowledge in remodeling, creativity and some of them give you tools to plan and build your home improvement needs. Houston is the largest city in Texas and there are many remodels in Texas providing best remodeling service and you may find hard to find the companies in Texas. Use the internet and search through keywords like Houston home remodeling, home improvement, interior painting home repair and search through the cities and find the best among them.
Find the remodeling companies who provide your dream with unique design and work the way you want to and provide the best service with quality. Rejuvenate your home with best designs and chose your home remodels easily and make your dream to come true.
The author is expert for houston home remodeling. For information visit our site home remodeling Houston.
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Choosing a Qualified Home Remodeling Contractor
By Richard M Schindler
What Makes a Qualified Home Remodeling Contractor? Well, it's more than meets the eye, that's for sure. Just another handsome face shouldn't "sell" you on your next home improvement project. You'll need to dig a whole lot deeper in order to determine if your hard-earned money is being well spent.
Finding a professional home remodeling contractor may sound easy. Unfortunately, the fact is that while hundreds or even thousands of contractors exist in your area, woefully few can be considered qualified. Sadly, many are unskilled and lack what it takes to complete a project in a timely and professional manner. It's not that many of them choose to rip folks off, although there are some whose intention is to do just that, but rather they simply hold themselves in high regard, unaware that they don't possess the skills necessary to do a satisfactory job.
Even before a project commences, the professional contractor shows his worth by directing his client to the proper materials and layout necessary for satisfying the needs of his or her customer. The goal isn't simply to complete the job and get paid, but rather to exceed the expectations of his client. Achieving this task requires helping with design and product selection from the outset.
Once a home improvement contractor has been awarded the contract by a homeowner is when the "heavy-lifting" begins. It becomes readily apparent whether the installer is indeed qualified or just another "jack-of-all-trades". Homeowners can only guaranty they have chosen wisely by doing their homework beforehand. The more experienced a service provider is, the better the project will turn out upon completion.
Often, something unforeseen arises in the middle of a contracting job. An experienced technician will know at once how best to overcome such obstacles. Checking a company's references and licensing will go a long way to determining if your contractor will know how best to cope with unforseen circumstances. Check how long an enterprise has been in business, as well. Many states require licenses and almost all cities do. Check them out beforehand to save yourself a big headache.
Your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) will also prove helpful. Simply being a member of the BBB isn't enough for the discerning homeowner. Today, you'll want to ensure that he or she has an A+ rating at the BBB. Only then can you be certain that the contractor will satisfy any concerns that you will have both during and after the project has been completed.
Richard Schindler is President of American Home Concepts,Inc. For More Information about quality, professional Home Remodeling and Window & Door Installation services or to schedule a free consultation, call 610-667-7775 or visit http://www.americanhomeconcepts.com
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Green Buildings in San Diego
By Todd Jacoson
In today's world it is hard not to be aware of just how important it is to be Earth-friendly through the promotion of green energy and technology. People and businesses alike are trying to reduce their carbon footprint, recycle and find ways to be kind to the planet. That concept is very apparent amongst San Diego, California builders and construction companies. Many of these organizations are leading the way and spear heading the effort to be "green" in their everyday operations, making the community of San Diego stand out in the number of buildings that are being built with the best green technology science has to offer.
One of the reasons green building is so prevalent in San Diego is because the government in charge of the area has instituted a Green Building Program that is designed to encourage and motivate homeowners and construction companies to build homes and structures that are focused on environmentally centered practices and procedures.
In addition, the Green Building Program rewards those homeowners, construction companies and builders who choose to participate. There are numerous incentives offered when guidelines and rules are followed. For instance, if a builder chooses to participate in this program they will not be charged any fees associated with the building permit. In addition, builders can receive rebates on cost of supplies and other credits when they use green building practices.
Many builders have participated in this program ands some builders in San Diego have instituted a green "division" in their business, focusing specifically on environmentally friendly products for homeowners who wish to incorporate this into their new construction.
San Diego is standing out as one area of the country where green housing has caught on. In particular, certain communities are being highlighted such as the 2,500 home community of Del Sur in San Diego. This is one complex that was originally planned twenty years ago and the focus on environmentally friendly housing has earned this community a Platinum Certification from the United States Green Council for recognition as one of the world's most environmentally friendly communities.
There are many major benefits when focusing on green building in new construction or when updating your current house. While there is an initial expense to fit your house with a solar energy system, tank-less water heater or weather based irrigation system, there are also massive savings when your green energy based home begins to reap the benefits of being more efficient.
Studies show that water bills and energy bills are reduced dramatically. For instance, the community of Del Sur will save $58,000 per year collectively through the combined use of energy efficient products. That doesn't include the amount many of those homeowners will receive in tax rebates and credits not only from the local government but from the federal government.
Green energy is the way of the future and it is refreshing to see San Diego leading the way. Through the use of green energy, you will not only ensure that your home or office is beautiful, but you will also make sure it is friendly to the environment.
Before starting your next green building project speak with one of our green building San Diego experts to full explore all your San Diego home remodeling options.
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