Whether you’re building a new home from the ground up or undertaking a renovation, you’ll make a lot of complex and critical decisions along the way. Your home building or renovation process all begins with choosing the right construction company, though. Having the right team on your side can make all the difference. Luckily, there are questions to ask a general contractor that can help you find the best fit for your project. Here are 15 questions to ask before you hire a general contractor.  

1. Are you licensed for this type of work?

Among the many questions to ask a general contractor, this is the big one. Licensing is an important aspect of many industries, and construction is no exception. 

Ask for a copy of their license and contact the issuing authority to ensure it is current and in good standing. In Louisiana, this type of license is issued by the state. Use the online contractor search form provided by the Louisiana State Licensing Board For Contractors. 

2. Which types of insurance do you carry? 

There are a few answers you want to hear in response to this question. 

First, your contractor should have general liability insurance that protects your home and property in the event of an accident. For example, if they hit a water line and flood your house, you can rest assured knowing they’ll take care of the cost of this type of disaster. 

Second, your general contractor should also carry workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you from liability if someone is hurt while working on your property.

3. How many building permits have you obtained in my area over the last two years?

Make sure your general contractor is familiar with your local building code requirements and the permitting process in your community. It’s important to find a contractor who is credible and has recently worked within your area. 

Put simply, you don’t want to hire a contractor who is new in town and unfamiliar with the regulations that will apply to your project. 

4. Can you provide a list of references?

Talk to former clients who have hired the general contractor you’re considering. Ask them about the process, as well as the final product. Discuss budgeting, timeliness, and professionalism. 

One of the best ways to learn more about a potential general contractor is from credible sources. Ask them, would you hire this general contractor again?

5. What is an expected timeline for this project?

It’s important for you to have a clear picture of when the contractor will begin and end work on your project, especially if you have a deadline in mind. 

Perhaps you’re awaiting the birth of a child or need to move out of your current home. Whatever the reason, ask about any circumstances that may push back your completion date. This is also a good time to ask about how many projects they’re currently juggling. Also, make sure the timeline is realistic. You can read more about the common project timeline for a new home build here. 

6. Will you hire sub-contractors for the job?

It is rare for a general contractor to have every type of necessary worker under one roof, especially if you are building a home from the ground up. They’ll often need to subcontract work out to plumbers, painters, electricians, and other specialists. 

Ask for the name of every person they will hire, as well as the type of work they do. Use this information to verify these credentials and ensure they also have the necessary insurance requirements.

7. How will my project be supervised?

Most general contractors are not in the thick of it when it comes to slinging hammers. With that in mind, ask them how often they’ll stop by to check on your project to ensure the project is on track.  

If they will not be checking in daily, who is the on-site project manager? Will you also be able to contact them directly with questions? You should feel confident that there is a person on-site tracking every phase of your new build or renovation.

8. What kind of written warranty do you have? 

Most contractors will guarantee their work, and some will even use a written warranty agreement. This should clearly disclose what is covered in the build, what is not, and for how long. Asking about warranties is definitely important when considering questions to ask a general contractor.

While a one-year warranty is good, two years is even better. Others will provide long-term warranties for things like the foundation. 

9. What’s your typical payment schedule? 

The payment schedule is important for both you and the contractor you choose to partner with. 

You don’t want to pay the full price upfront, and most contractors won’t ask you to do so. Discuss payment terms before work begins, including payment amounts, key deliverables, and due dates. 

10. Do you anticipate any challenges regarding this project?

Construction isn’t always cut and dry. There are challenges that may be clear from the beginning or issues your crew discovers along the way. 

Ask your potential contractor to be up-front about these things from day one. This will help you prepare for any adjustments to the cost or timeline. 

11. How do you communicate with your clients? 

Questions will come up along the way, regardless of the size and scope of your project. You should have a designated point of contact and details about the best way to get in touch. Whether this is by phone, text message, or email, it’s important to be able to get ahold of someone on your contractor’s team as soon as possible. 

On that note, your contractor should also offer a plan for staying in touch. Whether this is on a daily or weekly basis, ask about their protocol for sending project updates.  

12. What does a typical workday look like for your crew?

Organization is key when it comes to construction projects. Your contractor should be able to give you an idea of a potential work schedule over a few different phases of the project, such as working hours and general timelines. 

During this conversation, you should also ask how the crew will ensure a safe, secure, and clean working environment. 

13. Will you obtain all of the required building permits?

Permits and inspection requirements vary by location. You may need a county, city, or even HOA approvals. In addition, most remodeling projects that change the structure of a home will require some type of approval. 

A reputable general contractor will know which building permits are required, and they should handle this for your project directly. 

14. Will you provide a written lien waiver at the end of the project?

A lien waiver is a legal document that verifies you have paid the general contractor and all sub-contractors for the work that was done. It waives the signer’s right to file a lien on your property. 

In simple terms, you can think of it as the construction industry’s version of a receipt. You want to work with a contractor who keeps detailed records for all projects. 

15. Optional: Are you familiar with renovating historic homes? 

If your project involves a historic home, experience is essential. 

The intricate process of merging the past and the future can sometimes be a challenge. For this reason, you want to make sure you hire a general contractor who is familiar with the unique nature of historic renovations. Ask them for a few examples of the work they’ve done on historic homes, as well as references. 

Avoid hiring unscrupulous contractors and suffering from poor workmanship by considering these aspects:

1. Local physical office

Does your prospective roofing contractor have an office in your location? A contractor that doesn’t have an office you can conveniently visit is a major cause for concern.

Ask for a contractor complete physical address and check whether they have a full crew or staff members. If not, consider moving on. It’s important that you’re able to access your roofing contractor in case you need help with anything anytime.

2. Multiple quotations

When it comes to getting a roofing job, Angie’s List recommends that you get at least three bids from multiple contractors. Too often, homeowners are in a hurry to get a quick repair only to be frustrated later on because they’ve been over charged.

If you want to get the best value for your money, solicit multiple bids. Consider each price along with other things on your criteria such as communication, professionalism, licensure, reviews, and more.

3. Previous work samples or references

You will be able to get a good picture of how well a roofing contractor completes a roofing task by asking for samples and references. When it comes to samples, let a contractor show you pictures of their finished work. Most contractors include their portfolios on their websites so look for these.

Ask the contractor for a list of references from clients they’ve worked with in the past. Try to reach out to these clients and ask some questions. Find out if they have been satisfied with the roofer’s workmanship.

4. Licensure and insurance

Does a roofing contractor need to be licensed and insured? Absolutely. With roofers who are licensed, you can rest assured that they will be able to get your roofing job done right. Licensed contractors have passed multiple tests, know the industry well, offer contracts, and have undergone formal training.

Contractors who have license carry insurance at the same time. Insurance does not only protect contractors from workplace injuries but also you as a homeowner. This means that if a roofer gets injured while working on your roof, their company will be the one to provide compensation and not you.

5. Client reviews

The internet has made it very easy and convenient for homeowners to do a background check on roofing contractors they’re interested to work with. By simply typing roofing contractor’s name + online reviews, you can easily gain access to a ton of client reviews on local listings.

Aside from Angie’s List, other websites where you can check your contractors include Yelp, Google My Business, and Yellow Pages. Check the Better Business Bureau as well. Don’t just look for positive reviews. Pay attention to how a roofer handles negative complaints.

6. Years of experience

Of course, you wouldn’t want to work with a roofing repair contractor that doesn’t have a huge amount of experience. To be frank, it takes several years for contractors to be able to handle different kinds of roofing problems well.

A contractor that works in the industry for several years has surely performed yearly maintenance work on roofs they have previously installed. They know the best tools and practices to use. Also, you can trust that these contractors were able to handle roofing problems that result from different weather conditions in your area.

7. Roofing warranty

One of the most important things you need to know is whether a prospective contractor provides a warranty. There are two separate warranties that should accompany a roofing installation: Workmanship warranty and manufacturer warranty.

A workmanship warranty covers against installation mistakes. On the other hand, a manufacturer warranty covers against defects on a roofing material itself, say, a roofing shingle. Professional contractors should stand behind their work. The last thing you would want is to pay for an error that you had nothing to do with.

Does experience really matter when it comes to roofing?

The old adage, “You get what you pay for,” holds true in many facets of life. However, rarely is it more relevant than in the roofing industry.

Where the tried-and-true roofer triumphs, the inexperienced roofer stumbles. Even minor roof repairs are rarely a DIY project for homeowners. Roofing is dangerous and complex—there is no substitute for the knowledge gained over decades of doing the job right.

Today, we’re going to touch on six benefits of hiring a seasoned roofing contractor, why they are important in any repair or replacement, and shed light on the dangers of do-it-yourself roofing.

1. EXPERTISE

When choosing a roofing contractor, experience matters.  New roof companies entering the market may know the basics of repair and installation but with a seasoned professional you will benefit from their many years in the industry.

Not all projects go smoothly 100% of the time. Once the old roof is removed, it’s common for contractors to find additional issues. If this happens, a certified roofer will be better prepared to handle the situation. Because of their experience, you can trust them to understand the cause of your problem and the best materials, approaches, and practices to address them.

Certainly, there are amateur roofing contractors who do quality work. However, who wants their home to be the guinea pig for an inexperienced company testing unfamiliar practices?

2. LONGEVITY

When choosing a roofing contractor – one of the most essential factors to consider is “how long have they been in business?” 

You want to work with someone that has been in the industry for some time and has a solid reputation. A well-established organization will offer quality, reliability, and have the knowledge and tools to best serve you. A solid foundation is also not likely to go out of business any time soon.

3. QUALITY MATERIALS

A professional roofer knows which manufacturers produce durable, high-quality materials and they have built long-term relationships with local suppliers, which enables them to access these materials at lower prices.

The quality of the materials used by a roofing contractor can impact the roof’s performance. Lower-quality materials can lead to decreased performance, lowered resistance to damage, and shorter service life.

4. COST-EFFECTIVE

While a new roofer may offer you an affordable estimate for your roof repair or replacement, it can be much more cost-effective to hire a seasoned roofing company. 

An experienced contractor will know how to find the source of your roofing problem, identify hidden damages as well as provide their professional opinion of future problems, effectively saving you money.

5. WARRANTIES

Professional roofers provide warranties on both labor and materials. This gives you peace of mind that the repair will be protected no matter what happens after the work is complete. 

Typically, contractor workmanship warranties on repairs are for one year or more. However, longer warranties are not necessarily more valuable than shorter ones. The length of the warranty is less important than the intent and ability of the roofer to stand behind it.

For roof replacements, leading brands like GAF require extensive experience in business for their certification programs. Since a certified contractor has access to the most powerful warranties available, you can’t expect the same from an inexperienced roofer.

6. SAFETY

Accidents related to roof repairs are very common. Not only do roofing workers have a higher rate of injury than those in other industries, but the risk also increases for inexperienced workers. 

The more experienced contractor generally invests more resources in training and safety gear, such as body harnesses, edge guards, and rope grabs, to reduce risk.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT?

Now that we’ve gone over all the benefits of hiring an experienced roofing company, you should have an easier time finding the right contractor for your home. 

Remember, your roof is a major part of your home. For something so important, it is crucial to hire an experienced contractor.

Wait! Before you go, we have one more piece of advice: hire local! This will help you find a contractor that knows the best practices for roof repairs and replacements in your area. Click here to learn more about the importance of hiring a local roofing company. 

If you’re local to Raleigh and need a contractor for your roof repair or replacement, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’ll be happy to help. 

Sometimes, the most difficult aspect of a home improvement project is choosing a remodeling contractor. In order to ensure you’re on the path to a fantastic home upgrade, we’ve put together a few steps for you to take during the selection process. So, here are six things to consider when choosing a contractor for your next home remodel project.

Know What You Want

The first step in choosing the right remodeling contractor is all about you and your home.  Have a plan.  Decide what and how you want to remodel. Not only does having a plan make it easier to get an accurate estimate, you’ll also be able to compare estimates more easily.

If contractors aren’t willing to stick to your vision during the conversation, you know it’s time to take your business elsewhere.

Ask Your Friends and Family

Good home remodeling contractors generate a lot of positive recommendations. Ask your friends, family, neighbors and other acquaintances if they have ever worked with a contractor that they liked. Asking not only helps you narrow down your list, but also who to avoid. Knowing who does, and doesn’t, do a good job is an important part of how to choose a contractor for your home remodel.

Look for Online Reviews

Online reviews can be very helpful. Look for places where reviews are harder to fake, such as Angie’s List and Yelp, as well as social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter. You’ll get to see a broad range of experiences customers have had with the contractors you’re researching.

Look for how the contractor handles a complaint. If they’re cordial and work to resolve an issue online, you can expect similar treatment during your project.

Speak With Multiple Contractors

After you’ve gotten recommendations and checked online, it’s time to call a few contractors.

Always get multiple bids on your project. Even if you absolutely love the first plan you get, stopping there means you’ll never know if the quote you received offers a good value. Home remodeling contractors may charge different rates because they may have different specialties, so getting multiple bids is a good idea.

Phone interviews are a good idea during the initial stages of choosing a remodeling contractor. Be sure to ask if they work on projects of your size, and what their availability is for interior and exterior projects.

You should also learn what licenses are required where you live. This will allow you to determine if your contractor is properly certified. Getting this information from multiple contractors may also reveal someone who is not being honest about what permits need to be obtained before work can begin.

Check References and BBB Ratings

When you speak with contractors, get the official name of their registered business.

References, such as current customers and subcontractors, can help you learn about the quality of the work. Current customers can share personal experiences and subcontractors can provide red flags, such as not paying on time or cutting corners by using less than stellar materials.

The official name of the contractor’s business will help you properly search the Better Business Bureau for complaints and other problems the contractor has experienced in the past. The BBB can help you see how well problems were resolved too.

Knowing their official name will also help you check their licenses, and it will help you verify what professional organizations they’re a part of in your area.

Seek Well Defined Bids

When you’ve found a few contractors you like, it’s time to get bids from them. Have a conversation with each potential home remodeling contractor and define your plans. Show them any blueprints you have. Tell them what you’re willing to spend and ask for a full quote.

To best compare your bids, ask each contractor to provide details about the costs for labor, materials and other expenses. This Old House says materials should represent about 40% of your total cost, another 40% should be allocated to labor and other expenses, and up to 20% should be used for the profit margin.

Once you have a bid you like, start the negotiation process. Make sure the contract is detailed and that you’re comfortable with it before the project starts. Once work begins, communication is the key to a happy and successful home remodel.

You love your house, but maybe it’s starting to show its age. Perhaps the kids are growing and you need some extra play space, or maybe it’s finally time for that master suite you’ve been dreaming of! Whatever you can dream of, our experienced home improvement contractors can build.

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels

These are the two rooms that can increase the value of your house the most when you renovate. And let’s face it, you spend a lot of time in them, so why not make them more organized, efficient, and attractive?

For example, you can expand the footprint of your bathroom to add a vanity with two sinks or open up a wall between the kitchen and dining room for a more modern “Great Room” feel. The options for kitchen renovations and bathroom makeovers are almost endless. That’s why it’s best to work with a professional remodeler who can listen to your needs, offer options based on your budget, and give you the results that meet the highest standards in the industry.

Create a Home Office

Whether you work from home, run a business, or just need a dedicated space to pay bills, a home office can be a great productivity booster. Our remodeling contractors can help you convert an unused room or even create a new room by adding or removing walls.

Add a Utility Room or Mudroom

An all-purpose room can be added to your house or “borrowed” from part of the garage or basement. An attractive mudroom is ideal for taking off muddy shoes (or drying off a wet dog), and depositing school or office stuff. It can include a bench to sit on while you pull off your boots, hooks to hang raincoats and sports gear, and even a compact washer and dryer so dirty sports uniforms can go right into the laundry.

Whole-Home Remodels and Additions

A total renovation of your home is a big step. But if well done, it can mean incredible satisfaction for the homeowner and a huge jump in value for the house. This often involves adding several new rooms. A whole-house renovation can even extend into the existing space to reconfigure rooms and improve storage and accessibility. It can give your old house a new look and feel that is consistent and reflective of your personal style.

Get Inspired for Your Next Renovation

While you’re here, feel free to look over Breyer Construction’s renovations, remodeling, and additions gallery. For even more inspiration, check out the before and after examples of our work.

How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Home?

The final price of a home renovation varies depending on the scope of the project, the current state of the house, materials used, and other factors.

How to Choose a Renovation Contractor

The process of finding a contractor can be lengthy but it’s well worth the effort. Ultimately, you want to choose a company or individual that you’ll have a long relationship with. Since you probably don’t have an unlimited budget, you’ll need someone willing to explain the differences in materials, so you can make informed decisions based on your priorities. And someone who will be creative in giving you options within your price range. Obviously, you want a residential remodeling contractor with a proven track record.

Breyer Construction and Landscape is dedicated to this approach and to giving you results that meet your, and our industry’s, standards. As one of only three remodelers in Pennsylvania to earn a spot on a nationwide Best in Customer Satisfaction list published by Quality Remodeler magazine (July 2017 and July 2020), a 12-year GuildQuality participant, and a Remodeling Big 50 winner, we believe in constantly checking with the client to assure we’re meeting their needs.

We’ve completed home renovation projects throughout Southeastern PA, including Berks, Montgomery, Chester, Lehigh, Lancaster, and Lebanon Counties. Contact us to ask questions about your plans for a home remodel. Once you have all the right information, you will be able to make your decision with confidence.

Do you like taking on projects with your own two hands and a plan? If so, starting a home renovation business is a winning move in practically any market. There is no shortage of home improvement business opportunities, since homeowners are either improving their homes for long-term enjoyment, or sprucing them up to increase their market value for resale. Unlike many of today’s desk jobs, remodeling is a great opportunity to work with your mind and body. The start-up costs are relatively low, making it a great career choice for any independent contractor. Wondering what’s the most profitable home improvement business? Read on.

How to Start a Home Renovation Business

In the home improvement business, location is key. Once you’ve decided where you will be based as home remodeling contractors, get to know your state building regulations. Staying up-to-date on local codes will help you determine what you can offer your customers. Depending on your state and city, you may need a general small business license-look this up at your local Chamber of Commerce. You may also need to be licensed through your State’s agency as a home contractor. Check out NARI to learn more about your industry’s requirements and get connected to other home renovation professionals which will help you understand how to start a renovation business.

In a hands-on, location-based field like home repair, you’ll want to start off on the right foot with solid general contractor insurance. You will most often be working physically on-site, in the customer’s home. This means you’ll want coverage for bodily injury and property damage.

Find Your Niche

As a home remodeling contractor, you can successfully grow your home remodeling business through focusing on the needs of your customers. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, your business can be tailored to your target market. Your location can help you choose your niche-do the oceanfront properties need better deck solutions? Do local apartment buildings need more natural light? There are many profitable markets under the umbrella of ‘home remodeling’, so be prepared to explore your options. One example is ‘green’ remodeling. Incorporating non-toxic building materials, recycled objects, and energy-efficient spaces can differentiate you from the average home renovation contractor. Another category to consider is guest suites within pre-existing homes. Hosting platforms like Airbnb have created a demand for separated spaces inside private homes with maximal privacy for minimal investment. 

Moving Into Maintenance – A Key for Winning Long-Term Customers

Here is a great example of how one independent contractor created a steady, growing income through his home renovation business:  Jack T. specializes in indoor stone water fountains. He started out his home repair business creating stone fountains to ‘last forever’ but quickly discovered that the pumps operating the fountains would require biannual checkups. Customers who own one of Jack T.’s custom stone fountains now have the option to subscribe to his monthly low-cost maintenance plan, which includes twice-per-year pump checkups and on-call advice from Jack in the event of a malfunction. He has become the undisputed authority in indoor stone fountains in his state, and 95% of his fountain customers sign up for his monthly maintenance plan.

People Skills

When starting a house renovation business, customers need to trust you. Your goal is to build a brand with a solid reputation that will have your customers raving about your work to their friends and neighbors. You will need hands-on technical skills to do home renovation, and these can be learned through internships on job sites as well as online courses in home remodeling. But while you build these skills, always remember that remodeling homes is all about working with the people who live in them. Trust and reputation are critical, and we recommend approaching the business from a ‘people-first’ perspective.

At the Beginning

Doing jobs for low-cost at the beginning is an excellent way to sharpen your skills as you ramp up. There is a huge marketing opportunity here, too-you can start building up your customer reviews and feedback to display on your website and social media long before ‘opening day’. Genuine reviews about your service from past customers is the best marketing strategy for dominating today’s home improvement industry. Remember to take (and post) pictures before, during, and after your home renovation work, always with your customer’s permission. For your potential customers, seeing is believing.

Marketing and Networking Ideas

Today, there are many easy and affordable marketing options to reach the customers who will be searching for your services online. For low-cost advertising, check out Google and Facebook ads- both companies have been ramping up their efforts to serve local businesses. Networking with other industry professionals, like wood, metal, glass, and paint suppliers, could be a great source of early referrals for your home renovation business. Make sure to invest in those relationships as you would with customers-they are key players to have on your team. Starting a home improvement business is a big responsibility. Expectations are high, and you may have some competition at the beginning. But with a positive attitude and a professional approach, you can make a career out of doing what you love. Enjoy using your creative skills to improve the space that matters most to your customers-their homes!

Becoming a home improvement contractor is a profitable endeavor. No matter the climate of the housing market, whether it’s in an upward or downward trend, people who are into this type of business will do well.
When homes are in demand, sellers will shell out money to make their homes more attractive to buyers, and buyers also make improvements to their new properties. On the other hand, when it’s not a good season for home sales, homeowners also tend to upgrade or customize their homes.
If a home improvement business sounds like an excellent business idea to you, you should know how to make a good start in this endeavor. Here are some tips for that purpose.

Ensure You Have the Right Motivation

Having knowledge of the basics of the business and crafting the right business plan are two essential aspects to make this endeavor a success. Aside from the two, you should also have the right motivation, especially when you’re just starting.
Motivation creates the will needed to get things done. It’s also the thing that makes you enjoy your work and be hands-on with your business. That’s why you should ask yourself if this kind of business is the thing that you want to do.

Have a Reasonable Financial Outlook

You should make sure that you have enough financial savings set aside to cover the expenses of starting your business. Also, you should keep in mind to avoid overspending. If you don’t have a reasonable financial outlook, this business may not be for you.
Being a contractor of home improvement services needs you to tighten your belt for several months or even a year in order to drive in profits and become successful.

Determine the Services You’re Going to Offer

It’s essential that your business offer services that you enjoy doing and give you the best profit as possible. For sure, you already have things in mind. Some contractors offer all-around home remodeling services. While others focus on a particular room like the dining area, kitchen, living room, and bedroom improvement.

Get a License and Insurance for Your Business

Having a license and insurance is crucial before you start your business. For instance, you should obtain a contractor’s license and other vital certifications. Aside from the contractor’s license, getting a business license in the city where your business is located is also a must.
You also need to get general liability insurance to cover such expenses in case of accidents in the job site or home damages done by your employee. Commercial and cyber breach insurance is also essential for this kind of business.

Be Friends with Suppliers and Subcontractors

When doing business, it’s crucial that you start a business relationship with home material suppliers. In this way, you can obtain discounts and reduce your business expenses. You can also get your work done on time because your supplier will prioritize you when it comes to the delivery of materials.

Market Your Services

Your business will need excellent marketing so that people will know and avail of the services you offer. Marketing is among the things that you should do in the first few months of your business.
You can hand out flyers, put up billboards, or use the internet to make your business known. The best way to market today is putting your brand on Craigslist. Using online marketing will get you more leads and boost your profits.

Takeaway

A home improvement business is an excellent endeavor. Not only that it’s in demand, but you can also get more money out of it. However, it’s crucial that you know how to start this business right. You can get ideas from the list above for that purpose.

Find big savings on those high buck remodeling projects

Tip 1: Plan your project and get bids well in advance

Have you ever tried to find a contractor in March to start the new three-season porch that you want to be completed by Mother’s Day? It’ll cost more than if you’d found a contractor in January. Most contractors plan out months ahead and don’t want to disrupt their schedules. They’ll shoot you a high bid because they really don’t want to fit you in … unless you pay a high rate.

Most building trades have busy seasons and slow seasons. Plan ahead, and you’ll get more competitive bids during the slow seasons. Best times to schedule:

• roofing—cold or rainy months
• indoor renovations—winter or during rainy months
• heating—late summer, before fall
• air conditioning—late winter or early spring
• chimney cleaning— anytime except fall!
• project design (architects)—fall and winter

Tip 2: Pay extra for energy-saving features

With energy prices rising, many contractors are offering energy efficiency upgrades (at an additional price). These might include higher-efficiency windows; guaranteed air sealing; extra-thick insulation; and higher-efficiency heating, cooling, or other appliances. If they don’t offer this, you can ask what additional measures they (or you) can take to improve your home’s energy performance. Then compare the estimated energy savings with the cost of each upgrade. A payback period of seven to 10 years is good. (Simple payback is the time it takes for the savings to equal the original cost.) Keep in mind that upgrades were done during the remodeling process always cost less than upgrades added later.

Tip 3: Hire an architect or designer for at least an initial sketch

The most expensive mistake you can make is to build an addition or remodel a room that you don’t like when it’s finished. Professional design help during the planning stage helps you tailor the space to fit. Sometimes it takes only one or two key details to make that room special. Most architects and designers will walk you through the initial planning for a modest fee. Gather lots of visual material to illustrate your ideas. And be sure you’re on the same page as your spouse! Be prepared to do some legwork after going through these home improvement tips.

Tip 4: Pitch in and do parts of the project yourself

Doing the entire project yourself is by far the best way to save. But if you don’t have the time or skills, your part-time sweat equity can reduce costs. Consider taking on such labor-intensive jobs as demolition, moving materials, digging, cleaning up the job site after work, sanding trim, or painting. Coordinate the jobs with the contractor in advance and agree on their value. Beware! Once you commit yourself, make sure to complete the work in a timely way. Tardiness can throw off the construction schedule and cost you more in the long run!

Tip 5: Plan for future upgrades if you can’t afford them now

You don’t have to wait until you can build your dream addition all at once. You can get started now and gradually add as your finances allow. But work from a master plan so you don’t have to go back and tear out or upgrade what you’ve already done.

For example, consider:

• an electrical service with capacity for the future addition, workshop or hot tub
• in-the-wall wiring for electronics in every room or a future home theater
• rough plumbing for a future half bath or hot tub
• wiring for future lighting fixtures
• rough framing for future doors or windows
• French doors that open to a future deck.

Tip 6: Compare the price of remodeling with the cost of buying new

Your house is your most important investment as well as the place you call home. Although you may love your house and neighborhood, check how much your addition would add to the value of your home. Creating a luxury home in a modest neighborhood may not make financial sense. A real estate agent or home appraiser can make a close estimate. If you can’t recoup at least 75 percent of the cost when you sell, at least consider the advantages of buying another house with the space or features you need. It may well be a better investment to move rather than to add on.

Tip 7: Shop for materials yourself

You won’t save much by trying to stockpile lumber, drywall, electrical wiring, or other basic building materials. But when it comes to the finish materials—carpeting, appliances, faucets, countertops, light fixtures—your own footwork will pay off. Not only do you get exactly what you want, but you also can find bargains, especially if you start collecting these items well in advance. You can even plan to reuse a stylish old stove, distressed hardwood flooring, or other items that add a creative touch to a room. But clear your decisions with your contractor; installation costs might be higher for unusual requests.

Tip 8: Don’t overdo windows and skylights

Big windows and skylights can have a spectacular effect on a new addition, making it feel bright and cheery and offering great views. But more is not always better. Not only are windows and skylights expensive, but even energy-efficient ones will sharply increase your heating and cooling bills. Large skylights can make a room feel like a furnace in the summer! You may have to replace your air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace with a larger one. Or perhaps add units to keep the room comfortable.

Tip 9: Avoid moving the plumbing or changing the foundation

You can’t always avoid it, but any alteration to these two systems typically adds thousands to a remodeling project. Neither is simple. New plumbing often requires breaking into walls and floors; resizing lines to meet newer plumbing codes; and replacing old, out-of-date pipes. New foundations usually require excavation, concrete, and other heavy, expensive work. The price jumps whenever you add these two items, so ask yourself if you really need to move the kitchen sink during a kitchen remodel, or if you really need the extra space in a bathroom bump-out.

Tip 10: Order over the internet

Can’t find a nice-looking low-voltage light fixture at a nearby home center? The Internet puts a wide selection of products at your fingertips. Even better, it gives you access to hard-to-find specialty items at competitive prices. Often you can save 40 to 50 percent over the list price.

Home renovation is a popular hobby for homeowners.

Remodeling can help increase the value of a home while also providing a newer, more pleasant aesthetic to an aging home. This makes it more appealing to continue living in an older home.

In an attempt to save money, here are nine creative home renovation tips for a tight budget.

1. Update any room with a fresh coat of paint

One of the most tried and true budget home renovations is a fresh coat of paint. This is an easy way to help to transform the feeling and ambiance of any room in the house without spending a fortune on extra furniture or add-ons. Paint is fairly inexpensive and is simple to apply. This ensures that money isn’t wasted hiring professionals to conduct renovations. A different color

2. Install crown molding

Crown molding isn’t the most intuitive home renovation idea as not many homes utilize this design. Crown molding is essentially angled trim that lines where the ceiling and walls meet. This is a great way to add value to a home and increase the overall aesthetic appeal. The process is relatively simple and only requires some carefully cut angles and the patience of installation. There are also non-wood, crown molding options that are even more affordable.

paint can help change any room without breaking the bank.

3. Refinish kitchen cabinets

The kitchen is a popular area in the house to renovate. However, new cabinets and appliances can be quite expensive. Fortunately, there is another, more affordable remodeling trick. By sanding down the cabinets and applying a new finish, homeowners can achieve the look and feel of a completely new set without the purchase.

4. Install a stair runner

Stairs can be another costly renovation. However, adding a cheap stair runner can help give the space a different feel without a complete remodel. These runners can be purchased in a variety of designs to match any color of paint or atmosphere of the home. Homeowners should be able to find the right size for their homes quite easily.

5. Rearrange your furniture

While furniture contributes a lot to the overall feel of a room, it also tends to cost a lot of money. Most of the time, a tight budget won’t allow for the purchase of a new couch or dresser. For this reason, it is important to utilize the power of rearrangement. A room can feel completely different even with the same furniture when it has been moved around to different spots. You can do this with furniture from other rooms as well. This essentially costs nothing, yet can bring the feel of a complete remodel.

6. Replace cheaper household accessories

When considering a remodel, our attention typically turns towards the bigger ticket items. However, even swapping out smaller household accessories can help to shake things up. For example, pillows are littered throughout most homes on couches, beds, and chairs. Changing the smaller accessories throughout your home is a great way to renovate with a tight budget.

7. Hang up homemade art or photos

Many homeowners scratch their heads when considering what to do with a large area of empty wall. Instead of investing in expensive mirrors or other accessories, consider hanging some of your own work. This could come in the form of a personal painting or photograph. It’s a great way to make your rooms feel more personalized while also saving money in the long run.

8. Add minimalist storage ideas

Storage is an issue in most households. Not only do you have too many things to store, but storing them in a nice way is important as well. This is when investing in some minimalistic storage is a good idea. Small cubby holes and hanging racks are a few great ideas to make storing clothing and other smaller things a breeze. These storage devices can be added to closets and empty spaces throughout the house.

9. Install some new lighting

Lighting is another factor that contributes a lot to the ambiance of a room. Lucky for you, lighting is also a very affordable factor to change. You can opt for a brighter or dimmer setting depending on how you want the room to feel.

Colour is another option when it comes to changing the lighting in a room. Small color accents can help give a room a cooler or warmer feel depending on the shade.

Wrap up

Renovating your home can be a great way to stay satisfied without having to spend money on moving. However, remodeling can cost money that a lot of homeowners simply don’t have. These nine creative home renovation tips will help you accomplish these goals on a budget.

Home renovation is very popular these days. More and more homeowners are choosing to stay in the same place, rather than purchase a new home. To make room for growing families and changing needs, home renovations are occurring at an ever-faster pace. There are five major types of renovations made by homeowners, whether the need is to update the home, add more space or simply make the home better reflect a family’s character and needs.

Kitchen Renovations

Renovating the kitchen is the most popular type of major renovation in a home. It’s also the best way to increase a home’s value if it were to be put on the market. Kitchen renovations can be done for numerous reasons – increasing usable space, updating appliances and cabinetry, or they can be done in concert with other renovations.

Bathroom Renovations

Bathroom renovations are generally not on the same scale as kitchen renovations, but as they can involve plumbing and render a bathroom unusable during the process, they are major considerations. Bathroom renovations offer the means to increase luxury within a home, and increasingly are done to help a family save water and electricity with green fixtures.

Basement Renovations

Finishing a basement is one of the best ways to add usable space to a home in North York. Basements can become full bedroom suites, or they might be used as movie rooms, game rooms, in-law suites or full apartments, depending on the needs. These major renovations can involve an immense amount of work and design, as well.

Additions

Adding a room (or more than one) is also very popular. Often, families with two or more children and not enough bedrooms choose to add on so each child can have their own bedroom. However, adding on can also be done if you want to leave the majority of the home alone, but want to add an office, family game room, sunroom or something else. These are major considerations, as the home’s internal structure will be altered during construction.

Adding a New Bathroom

For homes that have fewer bathrooms than is ideal, adding one is a very popular choice. This might be done to provide a private bathroom for children, or a guest bathroom that is not used by the entire family. However, because of plumbing considerations (and general construction), these are very major undertakings.

These five types of home renovation are best undertaken with the help of a skilled general contractor to manage and oversee the entire process. A contractor can also offer help and advice during the remodelling process. To find a general contractor, take a look at our directory.