While the remodeling process is an exciting journey, it can quickly turn into a less-than-pleasant experience if careful consideration is not taken. During the process, homeowners are faced with many choices, and in the midst of all the decision making it can be easy to make innocent mistakes that lead to complications. We want you to be aware of some of the most common mistakes so that you can avoid them and have a positive remodeling experience. Here they are:
1. Not Researching Enough
Choosing the right contractor is essential to ensuring a smooth process, however, it can require a bit more research than a cursory online search or seeing a name on a billboard. Make sure to take time to thoroughly vet the candidates you are looking at by visiting their websites and gaining a solid understanding of their services, experience, and qualifications.
2. Basing Decisions on Price Alone
When budgeting for a remodel, homeowners all too often fall for lower bids in hopes of saving money or splurging in other areas. Making choices solely based on the price tag can be a costly mistake and end up causing problems and costing more money in the long run. Low prices can indicate a lack of experience, rushed work on the job site, and subpar materials. In addition to considering the cost, take a moment to look into the contractor’s reputation, quality of work, and a full breakdown of the services included in the cost of working with the contractor.
3. Not Checking References or Reviews
A company or contractor can say anything they want about their business, so it is important to make sure they can back up their claims with legitimate reviews. There are several online platforms that are useful for checking feedback, including Google and Yelp. If possible, ask detailed questions from previous customers or those giving referrals so that others’ experiences can help you make a well-informed decision.
4. Lack of Details in the Contract
A thorough contract is crucial to the success of your project and having a good experience. A well-detailed contract will protect you from miscommunications and disputes should any arise during your project. Make sure to look for the scope of work provided, timelines, and payment details. Don’t skip the paperwork!
5. Not Fully Understanding the Scope of Work
No one wants to be surprised with extra costs or unfinished parts of the job that were only assumed would be completed. Don’t be afraid to be as thorough as possible when discussing the scope of work with your potential contractor. Ask the questions! Clarity is key for a successful remodel!
6. Ignoring Communication Styles
An effective remodel and a good experience relies on strong communication. When choosing a contractor, pay attention to the way they explain their processes and respond to your questions. There may be cause for concern if you have issues getting prompt contact or clear responses. Professional companies will display frequent and transparent communication.
7. Skipping Visits to Current Projects
It’s never a bad idea to watch the contractor’s work in progress before making your decision to hire them. Seeing how the team works on the job can give you a good idea of how they will work in your own home.
8. Overlooking Credentials
It is important to verify that your contractor has the proper licenses and insurance to perform the work they are providing. Of course, no one plans for things to go wrong on the job, but unexpected things can happen when working on a remodel and a good contractor will be prepared if they do. As long as your contractor has the right certifications, this doesn’t need to be a huge worry to the homeowner. Ensuring your contractor is operating legally can save you from potential liabilities.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common mistakes and choosing the right contractor can save you time, money, and stress. Doing some research and asking the right questions are a couple of simple steps you can take to feel confident in hiring a contractor that will execute a successful project and leave you with a satisfied experience.
At NextGen, we have over 100 years of combined remodeling experience and have proudly served more than 250 homeowners. We are a full-service remodeling company that will walk you through the entire process from the beginning design stages to the completion of the installation. During the design phase, every client receives a detailed 3D model with scaled drawings so that the client can visualize the completed result of their remodel before starting the work. Our dedicated team provides careful attention to each project and seeks to give the homeowner confidence and ease in the process through transparent communication and professionalism on the job. We value high-quality service, exceptional care, strong communication, and stunning results.
If you’re ready to start your remodeling journey, contact us today to see how we can help make your dream home a reality.
