BITE-SIZED DESIGN: Smart Tips for Tackling Remodeling Projects

by Leslie Hart-Davidson, Allied Member ASID
Hart-Davidson Designs

Choosing to tackle a home remodeling project can simultaneously be one of the most beneficial and stressful experiences in a homeowner’s life, requiring a major investment in both time and resources. The rewards for significantly changing your current home can be immense: a more functional floor plan, better lighting, inspirational colors and a happier family. The stress that many homeowners encounter during a remodel comes from trying to take on too much work without properly planning the project in advance. That is where the expertise and background of a professional interior designer can make all the difference. A designer can help you make “bite-sized” decisions, instead of trying to do everything at once. They can ensure that even if only part of the project will be completed now, the plan is in place for future stages. Here are three important suggestions for making the most of your remodeling experience:

CHOOSE YOUR “DUDE” WISELY
Selecting the right contractor for your job is the most critical thing you can do to ensure a successful remodel. Keep in mind that the “dude” you choose will become an important part of your family; he (or she) will become well-acquainted with not only your home, but your kids, pets and your neighbors as well. Bringing in someone you trust with your biggest investment – your home – will guarantee good results.

Here’s a simple test: when you called to inquire about an appointment, did dude call you back? It may seem laughable, but in ten years of design, I’ve learned that if you have trouble getting him to take your money, imagine how tough it will be to contact him once he already has it.

BE PROACTIVE WITH YOUR EXPECTATIONS DURING THE REMODEL
A contractor friend of mine likes to remind his clients that a remodel is not only about getting a good result, it’s also about having a good experience while the work is going on. Here are three things you can do to optimize your remodeling experience:

1. Discuss job site expectations
Are the subcontractors allowed to use your bathroom? Can they leave their tools and materials on site? What condition will the site be left in daily? Will they watch their language around the tots? Talking with your contractor about it ahead of time will prevent difficult conversations and confrontations during the remodel.

2. Communicate with Your Employer
The time spent planning and executing a remodel eats up your workday, so tell your boss ahead of time that you’ll need to be more flexible with your schedule to take care of issues that arise during the remodel. Plan to use a few personal days for finish selections, site visits and unexpected events.

3. Call your Insurance Agent
Most folks forget to do this, even after the major changes have taken place. Get a special rider for the construction period and ensure that your new coverage will be adequate for replacement once the job is done.

PLAN PROPERLY FOR CONTINGENCIES
It’s great when you have a solid budget for payments to your contractor, but don’t forget these incidental expenses which can add up quickly:

1. Electricity and gas bill increases: Loss of energy efficiency with a gaping hole in your house as well as vampiric power tools will seriously impact your energy bills, so budget accordingly.

2. Change orders: Do you know when the most expensive time to change your mind is? During construction. Careful planning from the onset of the project will prevent remodeler’s remorse syndrome (and its pesky partner “while you’re at it, add it”).

3. Food: Kitchen remodels are tough for families on many levels, but the worst is the amount of take-out meals the average family consumes during the two-to-three month process. Even if you’re able to park the fridge and microwave in a useable place, it still leaves a ton of meals unaccounted for. Plan to spend at least four times as much on your monthly food budget during the construction.

For more information on Leslie’s seminar titled “Remodel Survival Guide”, please visit www.designisademocracy.com.