There are a number of reasons for wanting to remodel your home. You may feel that your home is looking a bit dated and worn out, or maybe a move is in your future and you want to get the most bang for your buck when it comes time to sell.
Whatever the reason, always start with a plan. Start by making a list of the improvements you would like to have done, set a realistic budget and get estimates from several (at least three) contractors.
What to Look For in a Contractor?
- License status, both local and state. Visit the State License Board at cslb.ca.gov to check the state license. Contact your local city hall to check for a local business license.
- Make sure the contractors carry general liability insurance, and workers compensation insurance (if they have employees working for them).
- Don’t pay the contractor more than the 10 percent of the total contract price or $1,000 as a deposit, whichever is less, as dictated by California law.
- Always have a signed contract showing the work to be performed and a date when the project will be finished.
- Ask for a list of references from some of their clients –Â and call them!
- Since they will be working in your home (sometimes for an extended period), it is important to feel at ease with the contractor you select.
Remodeling Projects to Consider:
Paint: Nothing freshens up a home like a new coat of paint, both inside and out. If selling is your goal, stay with more neutral colors that will appeal to a large number of potential buyers.
Kitchens and Bathrooms: Whether you’re looking for a minor kitchen update with paint, new cabinet doors and hardware, or you’re seeking a complete redesign with new appliances, cabinets, counter tops, layout, etc., kitchen and bathroom remodels are the most sought-after home-improvement projects. While the process of remodeling a kitchen and bathroom can seem a bit overwhelming, the results will make your home shine.
Flooring: Tired of that old, wornout carpet? Replace it with new carpet, or consider hardwood/engineered wood flooring, laminate flooring or tile. You may be fortunate enough to already have hardwood floors. There are several options available for refurbishing existing hardwood flooring. And don’t forget about the baseboards. New baseboard molding can make the difference between nice and WOW!
Lighting: One of the most important but often overlooked areas, the lighting in your home should provide a bright and inviting atmosphere and also be energy efficient. By using dimmers and timers in conjunction with well-placed task lighting, you can add ambiance to your home while also conserving energy.
Windows: Old and unattractive windows can be replaced with energy-efficient windows in as little as one day. New windows come in a wide range of styles, so be sure to select one that best fits the architecture of your home.
Remodeling Tips to Make the Most of Your Remodeling Dollars
• Stick to the plan. Costs can get out of control if you change your mind in midstream and are forced to tear out completed work for modifications.
• Educate Yourself. Look through books, magazines and on the Internet for remodeling ideas.
• Determine what styles you want to implement into your home remodeling project. Choosing timeless instead of trendy materials for your remodel can help ensure your house won’t look dated in a few years.
• Don’t overload your existing electrical and plumbing systems. Many older homes have electrical systems that can’t handle the loads required by today’s appliances and do not meet local building codes. Always have the electrical and plumbing systems assessed by a licensed contractor to determine their ability to handle increased demands. Upgrades may be required.
• Be aware of the domino effect. Changes in one room inevitably affect adjacent spaces; a single room remodel can easily turn into a whole house remodel. Coordinate your project list so that your current project will easily accommodate any future projects you may be considering.
Information provided by Best Choice Home Improvements, Inc. of Redding, CA. For questions, please feel free to contact us at (530) 276-9261, email us at bchi@BestChoiceHome.net, or visit our website at BestChoiceHome.net.
