From The Detroit News | By Ken Calverley and Chuck Breidenstein
DETROIT, April 11, 2024 ~ Are you ready for a kitchen remodel? Do your outdated laminate countertops and particleboard cabinets make you never want to invite anyone inside your home?
After thorough research, referrals and interviews with three professional remodeling companies, it’s time to make a decision.
But how do you choose the right company when they all seem equally qualified? This article will guide you through the decision-making process to help ensure you get the best outcome for your home and investment.
communities in this region were built on former swamplands, resulting in damp ground that can cause problems for homeowners.
If your neighbors’ yards are higher than yours, you likely have an unwelcome pond in your backyard for at least a few months of the year. This can have a negative impact on your foundation and may cause your sump pump to work harder.
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April 13, 2024 ~ Chuck “The Inside Guy” Breidenstein and Ken “The Outside Guy” Calverly offer the knowledge and resources you need to make the home of your dreams a reality.
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While it may be tempting to choose a company based on quick turnaround time and the lowest price, it’s essential to prioritize value.
Value is the intersection of price, long-term cost, satisfaction, ease of ownership and possible return on investment. Look for companies with a track record of delivering quality work using quality materials. Remember, in construction, the adage “you get what you pay for” often holds true.
By focusing on value, you might avoid potential issues and dissatisfaction with the final product.
Clear and effective communication with your contractor is crucial for a successful remodel. Your written contract should, at a minimum, clearly represent what you are getting, or not getting, and all pricing and payment information.
Discuss upfront how any changes or modifications will be handled. It’s important to follow up any verbal discussions with written confirmation via email. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and minimizes confusion.
Additionally, encourage your contractor to address any questions or concerns through email to maintain a transparent and documented communication channel.
Attention to detail is important. When it comes to your dream project, no item is too small to be considered. Don’t hesitate to point out even the smallest detail that matters to you at the beginning of the transaction.
By communicating your preferences and expectations early and clearly, you increase the likelihood that the final product aligns with your vision. Remember, you’ll be living with this kitchen for years to come, so it’s essential to be thorough and specific in your communication.
Setting a reasonable start-to-finish timeframe is crucial for a smooth construction process. Work with your contractor to establish a timeline that considers the scope of the project and the time of year.
If desired, you can also negotiate a penalty clause for unreasonable project delays balanced with a bonus clause for early completion. You might even consider what we call liquidated damages that pre-determines a daily cost for either delay or early completion.
All parties should agree upon these terms and include them in the contract.
Before signing the contract, review it carefully to ensure all aspects are covered including plans, specifications and warranty. If you are uncertain as to the agreement, have it reviewed by an attorney with construction expertise.
It’s also important to emphasize that homeowners should never pull permits for a job to be done by a contractor.
Request current copies of the contractor’s liability and workers’ compensation insurance directly from their insurance broker.
By addressing these details in the contract, you can further protect yourself and your investment.
Once you’ve selected a contractor, it’s crucial to trust their expertise and judgment. Treat the workers with respect and kindness, just as you would treat your friends and family. Small gestures, like providing doughnuts, hot coffee, water or snacks, can go a long way in creating a positive working environment.
Remember, it’s not just about transforming your space, but also about creating a kitchen or other area that reflects your style and meets your needs.
As you begin looking for the right remodeling company, take the time to thoroughly research and interview potential candidates. Look for companies that have a strong track record of delivering high-quality workmanship and using top-notch materials.
Don’t be swayed by the allure of a quick turnaround time or the lowest price. Talk with true professionals like those you can find every day at InsideOutsideGuys.com.
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For more advice, listen to “The Inside Outside Guys” every Saturday and Sunday on 760 WJR from 10 a.m. to noon or contact them at InsideOutsideGuys.com.
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