Special offer

Remodeling and Choosing Contractors

By
Real Estate Agent with EXP Realty 414-525-0563 57026-90 Broker

    kitchen remodelingRemodeling can be fun.....we designed our own home and now want to update and upgrade the kitchen. We have recommended lots of contrators over the years for various things as our clients have required them....and now we are making our own choices from these lists of people.

     The first requirement that we believe is most important in choosing a contractor...be it a designer or a remodeler who will do the general contracting is that they must be a good "inquisitor" and a good listener. When you begin any designing OR remodeling project....begin by interviewing yourself.

     What is your BIG WHY ?

                           Why are you remodeling....and what do you wish to accomplish ?

                  The answer can be as simple as ...the appliances needed replacing or as complicated as knocking down walls to re-configure the space.   Do you want more storage? More counter counter space ?  What features are available that you may want to include in your new design ?  What are the things you really like about the room now and how can you improve them ?

researchTo us researching the features was the most fun.  How do you use the room ?  Are you the cook or baker and want more prep and counter space ? What kind of storage are you looking to add; a pantry, pull out shelves, more drawers, divided spaces for trays or platters.  Make a list and check it twice...interview yourself first.  What kind of counters, cabinet finish, back splash, flooring do you want...colors, textures, durability, ease in cleaning/maintaining...research available materials..interview people you know that may have chosen a material you like...what do they see as pluses and minuses...go on line.  Visit multiple wholesaler/retailers. 

    We found when we built our home...and again with this project...if there is a contractor or supplier who does not have such a material...it is always "custom" and carries a larger price tag. That may or may not be true...what is custom to one may be a regular item to another. In projects that are involving more than just a change of paint color....research is a top priority.

   Then...on to interviewing the contractor.

     If you have decided to remodel your home...we are happy to give you suggestions for all kinds of contractors...if you have decided it's time for a new home...more space...less space....condo vs home...the Hansons are here to help you anywhere in southeastern Wisconsin choosing just the right place with the prompt professional service and proven results you deserve for all things real estate.

 

      

 

Posted by

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS


home worth iconemail iconhome searchLinked In  facebook

Kristin Johnston - REALTOR®
RE/MAX Platinum - Waukesha, WI
Giving Back With Each Home Sold!

In almost all cases I try to get 2 to 3 estimates whenever possible....just makes sense!

Sep 23, 2013 10:21 PM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hi Sally and David.

Once the work has been completed to the specifications you wanted. And you are happy. It makes you look like a genius.

But there are those who don't get the quality of what they expected. It's sad for them. But like you say in the post. Do your research and get the best not the cheapest contractor out there.

Have a good day in Wisconsin.

Best, Clint McKie

Sep 23, 2013 10:24 PM
Sally K. & David L. Hanson
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce

   Sometimes when are tweaking designs...the more the merrier....!

Sep 23, 2013 10:28 PM
Scott Godzyk
Godzyk Real Estate Services - Manchester, NH
One of the Manchester NH's area Leading Agents

I am in the process of re dong my kitchen and the key is staying on top of everyone and everything from delivery, plumber, electrician and contractor. It can be trying but the end result is so worth it. 

Sep 23, 2013 11:12 PM
Chris and Dick Dovorany
Homes for Sale in Naples, Bonita Springs and Estero, Florida - Naples, FL
Broker/Associate at Premiere Plus Realty

It's going to be beautiful.  I always use Angie's List.

Sep 23, 2013 11:38 PM
Sally K. & David L. Hanson
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce

We hear you Scott...we did our general contracting for a custom design house....and we always say it is like baby sitting adults !

Yes...Chris sometimes we do include Angie in our contractor search/selection.

 

Sep 24, 2013 12:04 AM
Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400
The Top Team @ Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr, Plainview NY 11803 - Plainview, NY
Long Island Condo and Home Specialists

Finding the right contractor is always difficult. An out-of-town seller (an estate sale) asked for recommendations from us, but they ultimately used someone on Angies list. After meeting him, he would not have been our first choice...Good luck with your choices!

Sep 24, 2013 12:07 AM
Joe Petrowsky
Mortgage Consultant, Right Trac Financial Group, Inc. NMLS # 2709 - Manchester, CT
Your Mortgage Consultant for Life

Since we are always flipping houses, we already know the right contractors for every job. If you don't do work like that everyday, getting the bids and checking the references is crucial.

Sep 24, 2013 12:17 AM
Sally K. & David L. Hanson
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce

David's pre-real estate life involved contracting....we are pretty good at sizing up contractors....and not every one will work for every job or timeline.   Fortunately, we have another kitchen on our lower level so we won't "go hungry" during the process !

Sep 24, 2013 12:22 AM
Sharon Tara
Sharon Tara Transformations - Portsmouth, NH
Retired New Hampshire Home Stager

Having the right professionals is key....I try to use someone that comes recommended from a trusted source.  

Sep 24, 2013 05:27 AM
Sally K. & David L. Hanson
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce

Trusted sources and like minds...wonderful combination !

Sep 24, 2013 05:40 AM