Most people have much bigger dreams and desires for their renovation project than their budget may allow and are going to have to make some adjustments to their plans. A well planned project will save time, energy and money.
Shopping for a contractor
Expect that in this day and age, skilled contractors are in high demand and a good contractor will be very busy. When you start phoning contractors, don’t be surprised that they don’t immediately answer their phones as constant interruptions slow down a jobsite. They are probably standing on a ladder somewhere with their hands full when you call and most contractors wait until they are away from the jobsite before they return calls. It is important to understand that good contractors are booked in advance and you could be waiting longer than you expected to begin your renovation.
Prevent disappointment and frustration expecting the renovation done “fast and cheap.” Let’s deal with the first part of the equation having a renovation done fast. High-quality work takes time. It could take months to get your preferred contractor. You also don’t want that same contractor to turn around and rush your job just to get to his next one. The other part of the equation is having a renovation done cheap, but as the saying goes you get what you pay for.
How much is the right amount? Get as many quotes as possible. You may get a few extremely high quotes and a few extremely low quotes, and most likely you will get the majority of quotes that fall around the same price. Chances are, one of those middle quotes will be the right price.
So as you start planning your project, be prepared to wait for the right contractor and understand that there are ways to find the right price for the renovation you want. Don’t forget to contact testimonials when possible and or the better business bureau to ensure the contractor is in good standing.
Track your spending
Keep track of your spending. Create a spreadsheet and put everything in it so you know exactly where your money is going. Mange your budget and work out what you can afford. Have all the structural work done first such as wiring, plumbing and the insulation. Its tough spending your hard earned cash on items that can’t be seen but flooring and décor can be done at a later date.
Need versus want
Take your time and cost things out. When it comes to kitchens, flooring, windows, doors and fixtures you have to shop around to find the best prices to stay within your budget. With the current climate, demand for labour and materials are high and in order to complete your renovation you may decide to forego parts of your projects like renovating the fireplace and settling on painting it instead. This may be necessary to get the finishings you desire like special flooring or cabinets to complete the renovation to your satisfaction.
You can make things look upscale by splurging on expensive looking taps for a plain porcelain sink or tub. You are prioritizing what is important and how to make the completed room look expensive. Be specific about the look you are trying to create but set your top price and stick to it.
Additional costs to include in your plan are:
- Demolition and associated costs for removal and disposal.
- Unforeseen costs such as rotten joists, asbestos removal and mold abatement, etc.
- Professional fees and or fees for the connection and reconnection of utilities
If you need assistance selecting a contractor or skilled tradesperson don’t hesitate to contact me at 902-497-3031 or contact me at https://www.roythomas.ca/contact-us. I have a list of affiliates that my clients have had great success working with to complete their projects big and small.
If you are planning to make a move in the next 6 – 12 months I want to offer you our FREE “Room by Room Review.” I will tour your home with you and show you what to do and what not to do to prepare your home for sale and you will receive a complimentary copy of my Room by Room Review Guide with 101 Quick & Easy Tips to make your home show like a model home. The guide has lots of space for you to add notes. For more information visit https://www.roythomas.ca/room-by-room-review and then call me today to schedule your “Room by Room Review.
