Beginning a renovation or remodel project can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. With the right partners, however, you’ll have the support to navigate your way to a successful result. Tapping into the experience of your general contractor is key to finding answers and avoiding common pitfalls. In fact, some of the most important decisions you’ll make with your contractor will happen before the first hammer swings.
To get started on the right foot, you’ll want to keep these following 4 tips in mind. This will help you plan your project with your general contractor, stay engaged and confident while work is being done, and find yourself at the end of the project with the results you expected–or possibly even better!
Tip #1
Honestly consider and discuss your budget.
Your general contractor’s goal should always be to deliver the work you expect, on time and within your budget. To do that, you need to have an honest discussion about your budget for the project up front. Your builder needs to know up front what they’re working with before making plans, ordering supplies, or hiring labor. Changing the budget after work begins can cause major disruptions in the project. So have an honest conversation, your contractor can help you understand realistic renovation cost expectations and timing based on the resources available.
Tip #2
Check your contractor’s license and reputation.
Before beginning a major renovation or remodel, you’ll want to know exactly who you’re working with. Don’t be afraid to ask for your contractor’s license information. And definitely ask for references. Do a little digging yourself, too. A reputable, fair-dealing contractor won’t have anything to hide from you.
Tip #3
Discuss timing, and remain reasonably flexible during the project.
An experienced contractor will tell you delays happen. That’s normal. There are a lot of moving parts in a renovation or remodel, and often your contractor depends on vendors to deliver quality products on time. Your contractor should, however, be able to give you realistic estimate of how long a renovation or remodel will take, while also alerting you to potential issues ahead of time. If you get a call that work will be delayed, ask questions and remain understanding. As long as you keep an open, honest dialogue with your contractor, you can trust that you’re getting the truth about delays and that they’re doing their best to navigate issues and keep the project on time.
Tip #4
Stay open to your contractor’s ideas.
Experience plays a big role in successfully completing any construction project. Your contractor should always work to achieve your goals, but stay open to any ideas they may have. They might know how to save money, time, or better achieve your ultimate vision. For example, they may suggest a more inexpensive, but just as attractive and durable, alternative to the hardwood flooring or granite countertops you initially asked for. They may also know how to save a little time or money in one part of a project, freeing up resources to make major upgrades elsewhere.
Work with your contractor to achieve amazing results
It all comes down to having the right partner throughout your project. Your general contractor brings the know-how and the experience to make your project happen. You supply the vision. Together, you’ll likely get to the desired result on time and within your budget.
