Choosing the best remodeling contractor for the job
Friday, March 26th, 2010If you are interested in remodeling your home, you need to go through the steps of a remodeling to decide the project scope you tend to take on. This can usually determine what your remodeling project will consist of. This could be a bathroom remodel or a kitchen remodel - or maybe remodeling your entire home.
Next you are going to want to Establish a budget with the maximum you want to spend pre-determined. Next, get an idea of the rough cost of the project. It does no good to do full design layouts and drawings to find out in the end that your dream kitchen remodel is going to cost $45,000 when your budget is $25,000. There are numerous sources available to get a general idea of the remodeling cost. For basic remodeling projects contact a local supplier or installer to get pricing. If the pricing falls within your budget, then move to the next step. Bigger projects that will consist of two or more building trades will usually require the involvement of a general contractor. I recommend calling a remodeling contractor that you would consider to use and explain what your project involves and that you are in preliminary stages and need a very general idea of costs to help guide you in your decision to go forward or not with your project. What you are looking for is a range of costs to see if it falls within your budget. This can be accomplished over the phone. Most contractors can give you a rough idea of costs (within 25%) if you are able to explain the scope of you work with adequate detail. You will need to know the linear feet of cabinets, backsplash and countertop square footage, and if possible already understand what materials you would like to have installed.
So next, you have decided on proceeding with your remodeling project and now face the daunting task of selecting a Austin remodeling or Houston remodeling contractor for the job; so start finding qualified contractors. Wait, but not just yet. Many things must be considered before you start bidding out the remodeling project with contractors. Whether adding a room addition, kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, or simple projects like painting, exterior siding, roofing, etc, you should organize you project. Ideally lay out on paper your floor plans, including selection of equipment and finishes. The more you are involved in the design plan the easier it will be to compare bids and select a contractor.
Larger projects (i.e. - room additions) will require architectural drawings in order for contractors to bid a job properly. In addition, the city or county will require drawings for permits. The goal is to get three bids so you can compare “apples to apples”. On large remodeling projects like room additions, a lot of contractors that are qualified to complete these size projects have a person in their company that will do the design layout and floor plan for the homeowner. Ideally have a designer or architect prepare plans so you can compare bids properly. Architects will charge a varying fee based on project size and complexity. If your remodeling project is a simple design, an architectural draftsman could draw floor plans which would save considerable money.
Finding that right contractor is easier said than done. I recommend reading articles at Building Pros before contacting a contractor. The more informed and involved you are as a client, the better the project will come to fruition.
If you are doing Austin Remodeling, Houston Remodeling, or Building Your Own Home - Please visit our sites by searching for Noah Building Group or using a link above.