Start by making lists of what you like and don’t like in your current room, issues to solve, and ideas you’ve seen in magazines. Describe how you want your space to look, feel and work for you and your family. What activities do you do in the room, and how do they relate to features you’d like to add? These details will help your contractors understand your goals.
2) Educate yourself about the remodeling process.
Remodeling typically can be an invasive process and the last thing you need is any surprises. Intrusion, noise, distraction, dust and inconvenience are unavoidable, yet manageable if you prepare adequately. Preparation can involve making your site more accessible to the contractor, planning meals outside of the home and setting up a makeshift kitchen in your dining room our great room.
3) Maintain a project log.
You don’t need anything fancy, just a folder or a notebook to help you keep all details in order, from the research phase through the installation phase. As you shop around and speak with different contractors, keep track of what you discussed and with whom. By keeping good notes, you’ll have better records for reference when you have questions later.
4) Visit dealer showrooms, more than once.
A good remodeling project takes several trips to a showroom, from start to finish. Bring a blueprint or drawing of your kitchen or other room to make efficient use of time.
5) Plan your budget with a contingency.
On average, most people spend 10-20 percent more on their project than originally planned. If you budget up front, you’ll be more at ease later if you need to add a feature you forgot or if you simply want to indulge in a luxury.
6) Learn about your contractor’s background and service approach.
Check contractor references and the Better Business Bureau. Also note that good contractors pay attention to details like placing drop cloths correctly, cleaning up to minimize clutter and emphasize safety, being courteous of your time, and willingly responding to your questions and requests in a reasonable amount of time.
7) Be specific on all contractual agreements.
Make sure your contract clearly defines start and completion dates and any provisions for extended completion dates. Payment schedules and material specifications should be in writing and mutually understood.
8) Keep communication lines open.
Make sure you understand exactly what you are getting into before you buy anything or start any work. Ask a lot of questions, study the CAD drawings the designer has done for you, and confirm all details of the plan in writing with your contractor.
9) Allow yourself to be open to new ideas.
You may have planned everything exactly as you wish, but don’t forget to tap into the experience and expertise of your contractor and/or designer. Oftentimes there is more than one way to solve a design dilemma or functional issue and the experts you have hired may have some great insight into a solution.
10) Keep in contact during installation time.
Confirm that your designer will be reachable and available at your home during the installation phase to answer any questions that may come up during this important time and to make sure the work is as planned. Also, make sure that you not unavailable or out of town during a major installation—if something is done wrong and you unavailable, it could be too late by the time you are available.
No doubt, a remodeling project of any kind takes time, money patience and forethought. But, if you follow these guidelines you will encourage a cooperative atmosphere and make the process a much more manageable and stress-free one.