Talking to Contractors

Alright you're ready to get started on your dream kitchen, bath renovation, or new addition, but just don't know where to turn. Relax, as a contractor and builder that has been in the business longer than I care to admit I can help you with that.

The first thing you should do is make a list of all the things you want in your new project, i.e. your want list. Next you will need to prepare a budget projection based on some research you will need to do. That's right you have to start the ball rolling. Get out your phone book and make some calls. Realtors are a great source of free information as to estimation's of cost as they see all kinds of property in the course of their job every day. Ask them what they think a ball park cost of a kitchen remodel, bathroom, or addition might be in your area and see if that would fit your budget.

Now check around with your friends and relatives (as they will have your best interests at heart) and see if they have used any local contractors or remodeling pros that they trust and would recommend, if so, you're half way home. If this option doesn't work for you then go to plan B and make a call to some local lumber yards (Lowes, Home Depot etc.). Ask if they have a list of local building pros (contractor, builder, remodeling contractors) that do the kind of work you want to have done. With information in hand you start another list, we'll call this the potential builders list.

OK take a deep breath drink some coffee and relax, this project is off to a great start so take the rest of the day off and dream about your new completed project and how much you're going to enjoy it. The sun rises bringing with it the anticipation of something wonderful and you just can't wait to jump right in and get your hands dirty but slow down, you're not ready yet. Let's get your pad out again and continue with the planning stage of your project by listing all the potential builders you discovered in the first phase of your research. Now you're ready to give them a call and set up a time to meet with them and discuss your project in detail. I can tell you for sure that from a builders prospective they will appreciate the fact that you have done your homework and know exactly what you want, and have a budget in mind. Next time we will be looking at narrowing your search which will include some very important questions that will allow you to find the perfect fit for your dream remodel project. Until then remember the only dream worth doing is the one you can get excited about.