How to Hire the Contractor
Interview each contractor you're considering. Here are some questions to ask.
1. How long have you been in business? Look for a well-established company and check it out with the BBB.
2.Are you licensed and registered with the state?
3.Get a list of similar projects. You don't need someone learning on your dime.
4. Get references
5. Ask to see current insurance and workman's compensation policies. Low bids may not be carrying the cost of proper insurance.
6. Get a written contract on letterhead with full contact information and the license number.
7. Some state laws limit the amount of money a contractor can request as a down payment.
Contact your state or local consumer agency to find out what the law is in your area.
8. Make partial payments against the job based on milestones. Pay as parts of the project are completed and you are satisfied.
9.Don't make the final payment until the work is completed and you are happy.
10. Try to remodel in the off season, when contractors need the work
How to remodel on the cheap and create maximum return on your investment
The four best ROI remodels are the kitchen, the bathroom, floors and windows. These four areas have high emotional impact and are very visible. Your first dollars should consider
THE KITCHEN
This is where the maximum increase in home value lies.
Paint: The least expensive means to get a face lift is to paint. Do as much as possible with paint. Its amazing how much a fresh coat of paint and some contemporary color schemes can liven up a space. A textured paint finish can cover up damages and save the cost of repair.
1. Refinish Cabinets: Consider refinishing old kitchen cabinets and adding some new hardware. It often isn't necessary to buy new to look new.
2. Replace Vinyl: Lift up that old vinyl, likely there is a wood floor below and a nice stain and refinish will add beauty and value to your home. Hardwood floors have great return on investment.
BATHROOM
Another room with great emotional appeal is the bathroom.
1. Re glaze old Tubs:As with the kitchen cabinets, you can re glaze old tubs and sinks that are now too porous to get clean. They will look brand new and shiny at a fraction of the cost.
2. Skylights: An inexpensive way to add the appearance of space is to use skylights or add bay windows.
3. Utilize Space: If there is an under utilized closet, it may be possible to expand into that area and create usable square footage and replacing the storage are with space saver shelving.
4. Increase Square Footage: Another inexpensive way to create space would be to remove the tub and replace it with a glass enclosed stall shower. Some nice tile along the borders would be very appealing and create an open colorful feeling where there was none.
BASEMENTS and ATTICS
1.Increase Living Area: Put your unused space to work. Create a storage area or a work area. Put up some Sheetrock and create another room for the family. In other words both both can be affordable ways to create livable space without pouring concrete.
2. Create a new living area to use as an office or entertainment room with big flat panel and good sound and a wet bar.
WINDOWS
Windows have great appeal and can change the entire appearance of a room and even the house itself. Window replacement has excellent ROI
1. Replace old windows: with modern double pane glass for energy efficiency. Pick spacious open light areas that can change the entire appearance of a room. If you are careful not to move the windows and cause structural change this can be a cost effective way to modernize and create a sense of space and newness while being energy efficient.
FLOORS
We love hardwood floors. They have beautiful natural appeal homes are much easier to sell or rent with hardwood floors.
1. Refinish: There are some wonderful new materials being used such as bamboo and other sustainable floor finishing. But by far the least expensive way to beautify the home is to refinish and
re polish existing floors. Lift up that old carpet and refinish.
Howard Bell for yourpropertypath.com
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