1. Listening to the wrong people. It never ceases to amaze me how many people take advice on their construction and remodeling project from people who are totally unqualified to give this critical advice. Quite often, when I see construction messes – which I see virtually every day – and I ask where they go the idea to do this or that, I inevitably hear things like:
“My brother-in-law told me to do that. He used to do work like this on the side, when he
was a student.”
“I asked a guy in the office next to mine. He did the same thing to his home when he
lived in Wisconsin”.
“I read an article by a so-and-so that said we should…”
Everyone has an opinion on what you should do with your remodeling dollars. “Do it yourself.” “Hire the subcontractor and run the project yourself.” Just because someone is your relative, friend, or thinks they know construction, doesn’t mean they know the answers to your remodeling questions or problems. If you have an idea or a thought about improving your home – call a reputable, qualified professional to answer your questions.
2. Call at least three of the references you are given. Many people start out on the right track by asking for references, but then they never call them. You can never learn too much about the contractor you are considering using. Take a few minutes to talk to these people. Most of them will be please to accept your calls. It will be worth it! Ask if the job was done on time and at the agreed upon price. Ask if the contractor was easy to reach and easy to deal with.
3. Visit the references and see sample work. You can learn a lot by seeing the finished product. If the contractor is good, many previous clients are extremely proud of the “new home”, and will be glad to let you look See a job in progress. Is the job site clean? Or are tools and materials strewn about as if a hurricane just blew through? Is everything dusty and dirty or covered or sealed off? Chances are if a contractor keeps his work sites clean and neat – especially at the end of the day when it’s time to go home – you have found a conscientious contractor.
If all this makes sense, and you like my approach to remodeling, please give me a call at 916-646-6391.
Do not be another “nightmare remodeling story”. Plan your remodel with a professional, so your home will be something of which you will be very proud.
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