One, two, three… Now that you have compiled enough information for a rough draft on why the project is needed, let's discuss what is needed. With some simple research on the internet or at your local home improvement store, you should now create a list of different materials or products that you might consider for your project. This will help you get more educated on what is actually available. Gather this information on your notebook and list everything by preference and cost- to show the impact on your budget. Next, find out what the requirements are for your project. You may need to pull a building permit through your city or state. Don't do anything without it. If you are caught with a permit you may be forced to completely tear down your entire project, at whatever stage you're in. You don't want that to happen. Again, this information can be easily located and sometimes ordered through the internet. If you live in a closed community, check with your home owners association, they may also have bylaws which you may be required to comply with.

Sub Total. Contractors usually purchase materials at wholesale prices, which is usually between 10 cheaper then the retail price quotes you may get, so you're much better off having the contractor provide the materials themselves. But even if you don't plan on purchasing the materials, it is a good idea to add them all up at this point. This figure will provide you with excellent insight on cost and can be used as leverage when the pricing phase begins. If necessary, touch up your specifications so that you know how much of what is necessary. The more precise the specs, the more accurate your material costs will be.

Putting it Together. Most home improvement projects are labor intensive. This means that much of the costs associated are a direct result of hiring someone to put it all together. This is of course, on of the most important pieces of it all, since without it, all you're left with is an overly erased piece of grid paper with chicken scratch. The process of selecting a contractor is crucial, and there are many things you should consider doing before hiring.

Everyone has got Something to Say. Friends and neighbors can certainly provide positive (or negative) feedback on local contractors. But don't settle for just that alone. Just because things worked out well for your neighbor, does not mean that they will for you. Today, with a few simple clicks of the mouse, you can go from being a novice to an expert consumer in a matter of minutes. Go online and visit websites that offer descriptive business profiles and customer reviews. This will give you a much better idea on who to consider and who to stay away from. It's like having multiple neighbors now, providing you with feedback for free! Consider the length of time the business has been around too, you don't want your project to be the first of its kind for a contractor. Also consider visiting the Better Business Bureau to review information on any contractor you're considering. You'll have access to review any complaints (or compliments) made by prior customers, again providing you with excellent free information.

Page 2 of 3 :: First | Last :: Prev | 1 2 3 | Next