Home Improvement: Remodel Projects, A Guide to Having Successful Projects

Home Iimprovement REMODEL PROJECTS A Guide to Having Successful Projects SIX IMPORTANT STEPS TO MANAGING ALL YOUR HOME REMODEL, LANDSCAPING, AND DESIGN PROJECTS INII HIIRI Whether you have small or large projects, and whether you hire a contractor or Do It Yourself, following these steps will help you organize and manage the overall process. : : : :: :: :: :: ::*: :: :: *::: : ::::::: :: :: IDEAS AND CONCEPTS Find Styles of Similar Prijects that you Like PHOTOS FIND INSPIRATION Take and save photos of similar projects When starting to plan for a remodel project, you first need to find conceptual styles and themes you like. As an example, for a kitchen remodel, do you like a modern theme, a Mediterranean theme, or a traditional theme? INTERNET Another important consideration is what kinds of materials and finishes do you like, wood, glass, tile, steel, fabrics, etc. Search design sites like Pinterest for inspiration With larger projects, getting ideas on the spatial layout of how the various pieces will come together is also key. MAGAZINES Flip through interior design and project magazines for ídeas DESIGN PHASE : : :: : : :: :: :: :: :: :: Marawing Down to a Specific Dosign SMALL PROJECTS LARGE PRO JECTS typically involve only a few items and can be decided by you usually require multiple items coming together like a puzzle and require a professional designer New Floors New Garage Dr LIST ALL ITEMS ESTIMATE QUANTITIES HIRE A PRO FINALIZE ADESIGN PRODUCT RESEARCH : : ******: : * * : : : :: : Find Specific Products and Brands for your Project TOP REASONS WHY PROJECTS ARE OVERBUDGET - Poor Planning store - No Budget or Estimates -- No Comparison Shopping -- Bad Contractor Contract -- Not Pitching in on Labor LOCAL STORES VISIT WEBSITES Keep photos, sample, brochures, etc. of brands you are considering Save bookmarks of specific product brands you are considering BUDGETS : :: :: :: : :* * *: : :::: :: :: :: :: :: :: Set Yoursef a Budget for the Project BUDGETS FOR TYPICAL PROJECTS COMPARISONS Analyze and compare your highest and lowest choices from the product research phase $61k High End Finished Basement CASH FLOW $54k Determine the timing of the project and also remember you may be planning multiple projects for the home Moderate Kitchen Remodel $16k BALANCE The hardest part is making the compromise on what you like versus what you can afford Bathroom Remodel Limited Budget $9k Wooden Deck EXECUTION : : * : ** : Getting the Actual Work Done Make sure you have the right skills and tools to install the equipment and materials. Interview multiple contractors for the job. Time: Do you have the time versus a contractors time? Hire one with the right skills and previous experience, great customer references, and mutual contract terms. Skills: Do you have the skills and tools for the project? If you are willing to learn, make sure you research "how to" information. !! Keep safety in mind for you and others during installation Keep communication steady during the project. Quality: How important is quality of craftsmanship on the project? Budget: DIY vs. DIFM | D.I.F.M. Dolt For Me D.L.Y. KEY FACTORS Dolt Yourself : : : : :: :::: **:: : :: * *: ::*** :* *** :*:** :: : CLOSEOUT what Needs to Get Done When the Work is Complete UPDATE INVENTORY SCHEDULE MAINTENANCE KEEP RECORDS with photos, warranties and owner manuals especially because of the home insurance policy because new building materials, equipment, appliances, etc. need annual maintenance to keep running smoothly of contracts, receipts, permits and other important documents for tax and re-sell purposes Sources: HomeZada http://www.remodelestimates.com/articles/article.cfm/room/five_reasons_homeowners spend_too_much_when_they_remodel http://www.remodeling.hw.nef2013/costvsvalue/national.aspx wwW.HOMEZADA.COM