A FAQ in renovation is where do you start? Take it easy and heed these words.
1. Get yourself a good contractor...Reread this line. Then check out Angies List, Yelp, your friends and his/her references. Be absolutely sure of the company controlling your short term life and wallet.
2. Ditto with cabinet, tile, appliances and lighting vendors.
3. Have a budget and a plan. Spend time in renovation magazines and other do it yourself publications.
3a. Add 10% to your budget.
4. Prioritize..what is important to you and then work from there.
5. Don't overbuy. You should have a reason to want that luxury item.
The key to any project or even running a business is people, plans and a systematic approach to finishing the job.
I tell my clients to reserve 10-20% for "eventualities".
ReplyDeleteThey will almost always know early on if there are hidden problems like termites or dry rot.
If not, they can upgrade finishes like countertops and flooring at the end...or bank the difference.
There's nothing worse than running out of money with your project incomplete and a contract to be fulfilled.
Peggy