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 Six Secrets To The Perfect Custom Remodel Of Your Home |
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Secret #1: The Biggest Mistakes Consumers Make and How To Avoid Them
Secret #2: Avoid Common Misconceptions
Secret #3: Common Scams/Things To Avoid
Secret #4: How To Choose The Right Contractor, 9 Questions To Ask A Contractor Before You Consider Doing Business
Secret #5: How To Tell If Your Construction Project Will Run Smoothly, Before You Sign The Contract
Secret #6: Plan Your Project!
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Secret #1: The Biggest Mistakes Consumers Make and How To Avoid Them
Far and away the number one mistake most consumers make, costing them a fortune, is that they will ask for references, but never use them. Call all the references! You can never learn too much about the person you are considering accepting.
Take the few minutes to talk to these people. It will be well worth it! Ask if the job was done on time and at the agreed upon price. Ask if the contractor was easy to reach and deal with.
The second biggest mistake people make is that they don't go and investigate the projects the contractor is currently working on. You can learn a lot simply by going out and taking a look. Are the work sites clean and neat? Are tools and materials strewn about like a hurricane just blew through? Is everything dusty and dirty or is it covered, tarped, and sealed off. Chances are if he keeps his work sites clean and neat, especially at the end of the day when it's time to go home, you've got a conscientious contractor. |
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Secret #2: Avoid Common Misconceptions
Misconception #1: If the Better Business Bureau doesn't have any complaints against the contractor, he must be qualified.
NO, NO, NO! In fact, the truth is the Better Business Bureau (BBB) often does a lousy job of reporting offending companies. Especially if they're dues paying "members."
The October 1995 issue of Money Magazine exposed the BBB for what it really is. Many consumers believe that the BBB is a non-profit organization or even a government agency. In fact, the BBB is really a franchised for-profit business that often fails to give unsatisfactory ratings to member companies plagued by a history of serious complaints.
The BBB is in the business of selling "memberships" not "ratting out" dues paying members. Just because a contractor doesn't have any complaints with the BBB, you are not assured you're working with someone who is a reputable professional.
Misconception #2: Going with the lowest price saves you money.
No, not necessarily! Everyone Tends To Look For The Lowest Price! On a low estimate, you must ask yourself what is being left out or what short-cut is being taken.
One roofer had his re-roof job $300 cheaper than anyone else. The homeowner wanted to save money and accepted his proposal. After the job was completed, all the old shingles and nails were still lying around the yard and shrubs and the homeowner was having a fit. The contractor told them that he had not figured clean-up in his proposal and that was how he could do the job so much cheaper.
One of the most common signs of trouble ahead is someone offering to do work for much less money than others. Chuck Morn learned that lesson the hard way when he converted an attic to living space at his home.
"It was a $50,000 project, but the contractor bid $40,000," Morn said. Not only did he not finish the project, we had to get someone else to finish the project." Meanwhile, the first contractor declared bankruptcy, leaving Morn stuck with bills from subcontractors. Liens were placed against his home.
"It ended up costing a lot more," Morn said. Now, Morn is adding a deck and 600 square feet of living space. "Our thought was, this time let's go with the best contractor we can find," he said.
Like anything else, you can't get somethin' for nothin'. Be careful of choosing your remodeler based upon lowest price.
Misconception #3: Doing It Yourself Saves Money.
No! Sometimes the "weekend warrior" can undertake small projects like painting, hanging wallpaper, routine repairs, etc. But beware of undertaking larger, more complicated projects. What starts out as an attempt to save money can turn into a costly folly. All too often the job is botched and it costs more to have a professional come in and fix what's been done. According to an article in the Baltimore Sun, less than 20% of these do-it-yourself jobs work out. Mostly due to a lack of experience on the part of the home owner. If you want to be assured your project will turn out the way you want it, call a qualified professional.
Misconception #4: If a person claims to have many years of experience, they must do quality work.
No! I can't tell you how many people receive bad workmanship from contractors who've claimed to be in business for 15 years. Take experience claims with a grain of salt. Don't believe just because a person has twenty years experience, he will do a good job. He could have done a poor job for twenty years.
Investigate further to make sure you're dealing with a qualified professional.
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Secret #3: Common Scams/Things To Avoid
1. The most common ploy used to dupe consumers into signing a contract is "today only discounts" and other false discounts. If a contractor ever tells you that the price is available for "today only" it's time to show him the door.
Quite often they'll provide you a story that by signing today you're entitled to a "model project" or "advertising discount." This story centers around the need to use your project as a model to advertise their services in the neighborhood. They mark their prices up just to give you this false discount. Don't be fooled. This is an old trick used to pressure consumers into making a decision. This is your money we're talking about! Quickly show these folks the door!
2. Avoid High Pressure Salespeople. You should never feel pressured into making a decision about choosing your contractor. If you ever feel that a contractor or salesperson is pressuring you, ask them to back off. If they persist, it's time to look for another contractor. High pressure usually leads to a bad decision when building. A qualified professional would never have to pressure anyone into a project.
3. Avoid listening to the wrong people. It never ceases to amaze me how many people take advice on their construction project from people who are totally unqualified to give this critical advice. Quite often, when we see construction messes, (which we see virtually every day) and we ask where they got the idea to do this or that, we inevitably hear things like:
"My brother-in-law told me to do that. He used to do work like this on the side when he was a student!"
"I asked the guy who's office is next to mine. He did the same thing to his home when he lived in Wisconsin!"
"I read an article by such and such that said we should do....."
And so on.
Everyone's got an opinion what you should do with your dollars. "Do-it-yourself," "hire a sub-contractor and supervise the job yourself," etc. Unfortunately, just because someone is your relative (or whatever) doesn't mean they know the answers to your questions and problems.
If you've got an idea or a thought about starting a construction project, call someone qualified to answer your questions.
4. Beware of "Door-To-Door" Contractors! These people may not be contractors at all. Never allow them into your home until you have checked them out thoroughly! This cannot be stressed enough. It has been reported that two men claiming to be contractors had entered a home and while one took the homeowner on a pretend inspection, the other guy was going through purses and picking up items that could be sold quickly.
Some contractors that are working in your area may put out fliers or come to your door soliciting additional work in the area. These contractors could be honest, reputable people. If you're interested in their services do not, however, invite them in. Politely ask them for their business card and the name, address, and telephone number of the people they are doing work for. Then make an appointment to take a look at the quality of their work.
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Secret #4: How To Choose The Right Contractor, 9 Questions To Ask A Contractor Before You Consider Doing Business
There are 9 questions you should ask a contractor before you consider doing business with them. Here they are:
1. Are you licensed? Make sure your contractor is properly licensed. In the state of California, all contractors are required to be licensed with the State Department of Licensing. To qualify for a license you must pass a written aptitude exam that ensures you understand the fundamentals of construction. If the contractor is not licensed it's best to take a pass right now. If he is licensed, ask him to provide you with a copy of his license to ensure it's up to date.
2. Do you carry general liability insurance? Make sure your contractor carries general liability insurance. This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contractor and/or their employees. The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing any damage that might occur.
3. Do you carry workman's compensation insurance? Make sure your contractor carries workman's compensation. Workman's compensation insurance protects you from liability if a worker is injured while on your property. Be aware that if the contractor doesn't carry workman's compensation coverage, you may be liable for any injuries suffered by any of the contractor's employees on your property. If the contractor does carry workman's comp, ask him to show you a copy of his policy.
4. Will you provide me with written lien waivers? Your contractor should provide you with written lien waivers. Sub-contractors and suppliers have the right in most jurisdictions to file mechanics' liens against your property if they are not paid by the contractor. Even though you may have paid the contractor for those materials or work, if he doesn't meet his obligations the supplier can look to you. After you pay the contractor, make sure and get copies of lien waivers to protect yourself from these suits.
5. Will you pull all the required building permits? Make sure your contractor pulls all required permits. This is very important. When a contractor pulls the required building permits, you know things will be done properly and "to code". Also, many homeowners insurance policies require you to pull permits on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered. Not all contractors will do this. Many prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the "hassle" with the inspectors. Some contractors may ask you to get the permits. A reputable contractor will permit every job where a permit is required.
6. Do you guarantee your work? Your contractor should guarantee his work. Every job should be backed with a workmanship warranty. Many contractors will not guarantee their work. Some may provide you with a one year workmanship warranty. Most faulty workmanship will be easily detected within one year time period. If your builder won't guarantee it, don't buy it.
7. Who will be in charge of the job? Ask who will be on the job every day? A foreman or superintendent? This is especially significant on a large project where several workers and/or sub-contractors will be necessary to complete the project. If you will be gone during the day and will leave your home unlocked for the work to be completed, you do not want to be worried about what is going on when you are not there.
8. Will you provide me with written references? A good contractor should gladly provide you with references. You should look for a well established contractor who can give you several customer references - usually previous customers from the last 6 months to a year. Make sure and receive 2 references from the contractor's accountant or banker. You want to ensure that the contractor is financially sound and won't be declaring bankruptcy in the middle of your project.
9. Ask your builder how he handles his "dirty work." Dust and dirt. It can get everywhere! Especially if any sanding is being done. Make sure the contractor will cover your floors and/or furniture with tarps. If possible have him seal off the construction site with a plastic drop cloth. Make sure it's understood you want the debris cleaned up at the end of each day. Will he dust? Do laundry? Well, let's not get carried away, but the place shouldn't be left in a mess.
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Secret #5: How To Tell If Your Construction Project Will Run Smoothly, Before You Sign The Contract
1. Good communication is the key to determining how the rest of the project will go. If you can talk with each other, you can work out any details that come up. When you leave a message, does he return your call? Does he return a page promptly? Will he listen to you? Nothing is more important than feeling like your contractor understands your needs and concerns. If your contractor is so busy that he can't return calls or pages promptly, maybe it's time to look for a new contractor. When you're in a discussion, does the contractor really listen to you? I mean really listen. This is vital.
2. If you feel "comfortable" with your contractor the chances are good your project will run smoothly. Ask yourself, do you feel comfortable with this person? Do you find this person nice? Considerate? Personable? A listener? Were they polite and courteous? Or did they make you feel that they weren't interested? You will be working with this person for a matter of days, weeks, or months depending on the project you need completed ... can you stand to have this person around?
3. If you believe your contractor is trustworthy, the likelihood of a successful project is good. Check his references. Please keep in mind that if your project will entail entrance into your home and you won't be home during the day, the keys to your castle will be given to your contractor. Can you trust him? Listen to your conscience.
4. If your contractor is willing to give you a written schedule of how the project will progress you'll be provided a verifiable timetable for the both of you. A good contractor will be happy to provide this for you. How long will the project take? Ask for a reasonable estimate of how long the project will take until completion. You want to hire a good contractor, not a new roommate! You don't want to feel like you're at the doctor's office and have to keep asking the receptionist, "How much longer do I have to wait to see the doctor?" Nothing is more frustrating to a homeowner than a remodel that runs way over schedule. Get a written schedule.
5. If he gives you a written proposal that includes all the details - exact materials, costs, payment schedules and time of completion spelled out. This avoids misinterpretations and confusion.
6. If you communicate with your town, your neighbors, and with your contractor. Many municipalities have their own specialized requirements that may need to be addressed before starting your project. Make sure you or your contractor call your town or county and inquire. Let neighbors know you will be remodeling or building. Communicate to them the days construction will be happening and the hours the contractor will be working. No need to have them awakened bright and early by the sound of a bull dozer that just pulled alongside their bedroom window! Most neighborhood tensions can be defused with a little talking. Get the "details" worked out with your contractor. Where will the dumpster go? You don't want it right in front of your storage shed where you keep your golf clubs! Make sure access isn't blocked to and from the site. Often times large construction vehicles need to get by. What time will construction start in the morning? End in the evening? Weekends?
7. If you allow some flexibility into your lifestyle the project will run smoother. Buildling is an interruption in the "normal" way you do things. If your project involves the kitchen, plan on eating a few extra meals out with the kids (better yet, send the kids to "Mom" and go out alone). Remodeling time may not be the best time to host a slumber party for your eight year old daughter.
8. If your contractor has a neat appearance, this is a very good sign of things to come. This may sound silly but it's not. He doesn't have to show up in a coat and tie but neatness does count.
9. If the contractor asks for a big chunk of money up front. This could be a tip-off that they are not in good financial shape and you could be in for a rocky experience. The legal amount for a down payment is 10%. As the work progresses, you should expect to pay out additional funds to match the prescribed, completed stages. Be wary if a contractor asks for a large initial deposit!
10. If you work out in advance how "change orders" are to be handled. In a large project, it's not unusual for a specification to be changed. If there will be a change to the contract, make sure you sign a change order form that spells out what's to be done and how much it will cost.
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Secret #6: Plan Your Project!
This is really the greatest secret of all!
Plan your project with a qualified expert!
Most people spend more time planning a one week vacation than they do their building project. If you're considering a project in the near future, sitting down and talking with a professional construction expert that can answer all of your questions is the best advice.
Someone that can help you through the "maze" of planning a construction project. Someone that will listen to your every concern. Someone that subscribes to the principles and "secrets" discussed above.
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