home remodel planning

3 Tips for Planning a Successful Home Remodel

Planning or thinking of a home remodel? Looking to remodel your dated kitchen or bathroom and not sure where to start? Planning a remodel can be stressful, especially when it comes to budgeting and making design decisions, but with these tips you can have a better idea of what to look into while planning for that remodel.

Photo Credit: jkoegel via Compfight cc

Photo Credit: jkoegel via Compfight cc

Three Tips for Planning a Successful Remodel

Planning for a remodel is a very important part of the remodeling process. It will help you prepare and organize for your remodel. Keeping the following tips in mind will help you plan for your remodel and reduce the stress when you begin your remodel.

1. Choose a design professional

Choosing colors, styles, and use of space for your remodel for your home can be stressful and you probably won't know where to start. You may find it beneficial to hire a design professional to help narrow down your options (colors, materials, type of floors, ect.) and make decisions simpler. That way it will save you both time and money in the long run. Design professionals can also assist you in determining the layout of your remodel. They can maximize the functional use of space that you might not have considered or thought of.

2. Create a plan

Remember the big picture. It is good to have a budget and know what exactly it is that you want, but it is also beneficial to plan ahead for unexpected expenses, such as termites, that may be discovered during a remodel. Usually remodels cost more than you expect them to be, so it'll be good to keep in mind. Picking out all your materials (counter tops, flooring, fixtures, ect.) before starting your remodel will help you have a better estimate of your expenses as well as save time and reduce stress. Also, look into long term costs when choosing products and materials to use for your home: Will this product last long term? Is it cost effective? Are there expensive maintenance costs? Will energy costs increase?

3. Interview contractors

It is good to interview multiple contractors for a remodel, not only to weigh in their prices, but to also get to know them. Ask the contractor to describe any similar projects to yours they have completed. Interviewing a contractor will let you know if you are compatible for each other, especially since you will be working with him or her for the entire duration of your project and be in constant communication. Make sure to address any questions or concerns you may have with your remodel. Don't forget to check if the contractor has a valid state license.

Once you interview the contractors, it is good to get bids from at least 3 different contractors. Don't hesitate to ask question about the bid. Remember, the cheapest bid isn't always the best option.

Contact Kaplan Construction for your general contractor needs at (562) 495-0483 or via email at bob@kaplanconstruction.com for your home remodel!

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