We have all heard horror stories on television or from friends about a remodeler that has scammed someone out of money or not finished the job correctly. Or, a designer that was difficult to work with and jobs that took years to complete. It is common to have fears after hearing stories like these but there are millions of successful dream remodels completed every day with home owners that rave about their experience. That being said, it is important to overcome fears in order to have the best remodeling experience possible.
I won’t like the design. When doing your research for the perfect designer/remodeler for your project, be sure to take a look through their portfolio and see if they are able to design to your expectations. If you find that you like their past designs, it is likely that they will be a good fit. Most designers will ask numerous questions to get a good idea of your style and needs. They must do this to be able to custom design your space to your specifications. It is also recommended that you search through magazines and bring pictures to help relay your ideas. From this detailed combination of information a good designer will be able to deliver your ideal design. It may take multiple consultations to tweak the design to perfection but your design is never final until you say so!
I can’t visualize what it will look like. With modern computer aided drafting in 3D, it is even easier to visualize what your new space will look like. Many remodelers still draft by hand and combine this with computer drafting. If this is a concern to you make sure the designer you work with is able to provide this type of technology. Ask for examples of their computer work to make sure it is what your had in mind. Note: Computer aided drawings are never exact and perspective representations of your room could be skewed depending on the size, angle, material and colors. Your designer should be able to give you a description of potential flaws in the color or dimensions so you are clear on how the space will look.
I am going to end up paying too much. Figure out a budget that you feel comfortable spending on your project. Many people don’t have any clue what a remodel costs today but you should have an idea of how much you are financially able to spend. Next, meet with 3 remodelers/designers with information on what your project will entail and they should be able to give you a range as to how much it will cost. However, an exact bid of the project will not be able to be produced until a finalized design, scope of work and all materials are selected which could take anywhere from 2-6+ months. Note: When getting bids from remodelers and designers make sure you provide them all with the same information. Also, when comparing bids make sure all remodelers are of the same level of quality and service. To do this, take a look at their portfolio, experience, quality of work and licensure. A full service remodeler will have different pricing than a smaller handyman type of service.
The project will take longer than planned. Most reputable remodelers will give you a written schedule that details what will be going on in your home on what days. There will be a start date and an end date. As a home owner it is very important to have a high level of communication with your project manager and a schedule is a good way to keep everybody on the same page. It is very important for the home owner to know that changes in schedule are very common and that a good project manager will notify you of these changes. There also may be some extra days allowed for unforeseen circumstances which will keep the end date on track.
I won’t like the finished product. Most remodelers keep their business running on referrals and are always working to make sure you are happy with your newly remodeled space. If you didn’t get what was agreed on in the contract, bring it up sooner than later, there are a lot of details in a remodel and your designer/remodeler is sure to make sure it lives up to your expectations. If it wasn't in the original contract and you would like to add or change a detail make sure a change order is signed. This is a common document which both parties sign to acknowledge that a change from the original contract was made. Typically a dollar amount is noted so in the end everyone is on the same page.
I will get pushed into something that I don’t like. Your project cannot start until you have signed all of the design contracts which should include the drawings that detail all of the specifics to your remodel. Your contract should also include every product that will be used including manufacturers, model numbers and finishes. If you have chosen something that you aren’t 100% sure of, notify your designer as soon as possible and they will be happy to change it before it gets ordered. You as the home owner are always in charge. It is important for you to feel comfortable enough with your designer so you are able to be honest with them when you aren’t quite sure about a design suggestion. You also need to be able to trust in their design abilities, so be sure to see some of their previous work and ask for references too.
The common thread above and the reality of your dream remodel is that you need to do your research to find a designer/remodeler that is right for you. Differences exist in quality, service and ability levels and, typically in this business, you get what you pay for so if price is your deciding factor keep in mind that you may not get full service and if service is your main objective it may cost more. Make sure that you are comfortable with your designer because you will be spending a lot of time together (2-6+ months). Also, know that the best designers are not in it for the money. They genuinely have a passion for designing and helping clients achieve their dreams and they are your best remodeling advocate. Their true happiness comes only with a satisfied client.
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