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Agree On Project(s) Scope – With your spouse, write down a list of the home improvements you would like to make to your home. If you can’t agree or write your dream list, you can’t move forward.
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Only Do Business With Professionals
Hire a professional with all the following:
- license in good standing www.cslb.ca.gov
- proof of workman’s compensation insurance
- proof of liability insurance
- client references within the past 12 months
- professional credentials, certifications and membership(s)
- Better Business Bureau membership www.sandiego.bbb.org
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Choose Your Method Early
Choose the Remodeling Method you think is right for you. There are two choices: (1) hire and architect or designer to produce drawings which can be used to seek prices from several remodeling contractors. (2) Hire a design/build remodeler offering in-house design, decorating/selections advice and seamless service from design through construction. Interview several qualified candidates and choose the company (people) you like best.
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Establish a Budget
Establish a realistic budget range for each project idea. Use the current Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report for reliable costing advice available at www.remodeling.hw.net.
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Know Project Cost Before Signing A Contract
Make sure you know the project cost and have the money or financing secured before you sign a Home Improvement Contract that includes construction. Require a written schedule upon contract signing.
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Know Your Contract Thoroughly
Read, and re-read your Home Improvement Contract. Understand the contract, payment schedule and change order procedure. Ask as many questions as necessary prior to signing.
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Plan Ahead
During the preliminary design phase, evaluate the feasibility of your living in the house during demolition and construction. How much room you have for your family, consideration of kids and pets, where everybody will park and store materials, where you will store your belongings moved from the work area. Renting or leasing alternative housing must be planned in advance. Living in your home during major construction or remodeling requires fortitude and great attitude. It ain’t going to be easy.
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Have A Pre Construction Meeting
Have a Pre Construction meeting at least one week before work begins. Review your contract specifications, schedule, dust protection and trash methods, parking, materials storage, and security. Go over contract exclusions as well. Discuss your policy toward radio playing, smoking and language.
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Designate a Responsible Spouse
Decide which spouse will be the “official” representative for both in all communications regarding fulfillment of the contract and the myriad of problems and changes to be encountered. Write the designated spouse into the contract.
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Make A Pact To Communicate and Cooperate
At contract signing: Exchange phone and fax numbers, e-mail addresses and insist on after hours contact phone or pager with the general contractor. Establish and maintain good rapport with your contractor. Agree to respond to each other quickly, no matter what. On demand meetings and phone conversations are better than weekly meetings.
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Steve Lusk, (CGR), Master Builder
Remodeling Magazine Big 50 Hall of Fame
Sunset Magazine Western Home Alliance Member
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