Tips For Preparing To Remodel
by Christine Snyder, President of Snyder Homes Remodeling, LLC
biz2biz News - December, 2010

Understanding why you want to remodel is the most important question you can ask yourself. Everything else about your remodel is predicated on this question.

Once you know the “why” then the questions of what and where will come relatively easily. Ask yourself these questions:

Is the issue about needing more space? Or, is it because your parents are “maturing” and need a bedroom on the ground floor? Perhaps finishing the basement would solve the space problem. Are you a great cook but have a not-so-great kitchen? Maybe the house is older and needs updates to bathrooms, flooring and lighting.

Finally, do you like your neighbors and the schools your children attend? If the answers to these questions are “Yes”, remodeling could be the answer to staying in that great neighborhood with those nice neighbors and good schools.

The next step is to figure out what your budget will allow. Can you do everything at once or will you have to break it up into sections? What are the areas that need work first?

Inevitably, the answers to these questions will lead you to wondering where to begin the process. The first step is to look for a reliable and competent contractor.

Ask your friends, family and neighbors if they have used a remodeler who did great work. Ask to see the work and always ask for other references from the contractor.

Trust your instincts when interviewing a remodeler. Do you feel comfortable with them? Do you like them? Would you want them in your home? If the answers are positive, get the process started.

Finally, prepare your house and yourself for the remodel. Your home will be a work site and there will be workmen, dust and tools in your home. Depending on what is being done, it may be for weeks or even months so be mentally prepared for the duration. Don’t forget about the pets and kids in a work zone! Then, celebrate the completion!

Remodeling can be a challenge, but with the right questions, right contractor and right attitude, the time, money and dust will turn into a beautiful space that reflects who you are!