Remodeling
Success 101

Q: Should I have an architect help me select my remodeler?

A: If you have already engaged an architect to draw the plans for your remodeling project, by all means ask that person to suggest possible candidates and to join you in interviewing remodeling contractors; most know and have worked with local remodelers in the past who might be a good match. However, it's often best to find a remodeler first, essentially to work with a design professional to help ensure that your budget is considered through the design process. It's heartbreaking (and leaves a bad taste) to invest time, effort, and money into architectural drawings that you find out later -- from your remodeler -- are too expensive to build. Better to have the whole team together from the start.

This week we will elaborate on point # 3 of our "9 Secrets to a Successful Remodel"  This is in regards to the important step of finding the right remodeler, or more specifically, one that is the correct match for your particular circumstances. There is a wealth of information about finding a remodeling contractor. This newsletter, in fact, is one way we use to impart information about our company in hopes that Kingston is found to be a good match for your project.

Unfortunately, most of what you read or hear from non-industry "experts" reduces the decision to numbers, specifically the cost estimates that a few remodelers provide in a competitive bidding process. To us, basing such an important decision and arguably one of the largest investments of your life on mere numbers is at least incomplete and at worst, a potential nightmare scenario. Frankly, we'd rather not be your remodeling contractor if your evaluation of our capabilities rests entirely on how much we think it will cost to remodel your home.

Instead, we encourage and have found success (read: satisfied clients) by suggesting a different tact. It's a comprehensive approach that admittedly takes a little more time than just collecting bids, but one that can result in truly finding the best fit for your project.

It starts with identifying what's "right" for you; a unique definition that requires a solid vision for your project and some personal introspection. For instance, if you are planning to remodel your kitchen, look at contractors in your area that have experience in those types of projects; if you're planning a room addition, there might be a different set of contractors that emerge with those particular skills and track record.

Narrow that list by investigating each contractor's website, calling their references, the Better Business Bureau, or the local remodeling trade association chapter.

Based on your current personal and professional relationships, consider the types of personalities you like and respond to the best. You'll probably spend more time with your remodeler -- most likely every day in your house -- over the next few months than almost anyone else.

You won't know if you're 'compatible' until you meet face-to-face. If you're confident in one remodeling contractor from your research or a strong referral, you may not feel the need to meet with any other candidates. But if you are truly starting your search from scratch, without a referral from a trusted source, we suggest you develop a short list of 3-4 remodelers and invite them to make a presentation in your home -- as much to learn their methods as to gauge compatibility.

At those meetings, be open and honest about your project. If you have a set of architectural plans, show them. Request that each candidate bring photos of projects that are similar to yours in style and size. Inquire about how they define "quality" construction and how comfortable they are about green remodeling ... if that's something you care about.

Much of what we're suggesting here is having the tools you need to build and develop a quality working relationship with a remodeling professional. This requires candor on the part of both parties. One way to help establish this working rapport is to share your project budget and financial plan with the contractors under consideration. This will enable a professional remodeler to provide you with their understanding of any gap between what you are asking for and what you are prepared to invest.

Once you find a remodeling contractor that's earned your confidence in their skills, understanding of your project, and (most important) their ability to communicate with you, it's time to refine and sign a contract and get your contractor involved in the project as soon as possible. Having a remodeler on the team early helps ensure that everyone is moving in the same direction toward realizing your remodeling goals and aspirations.

Warm regards,

Austin Schmitt, John Schmitt, Mark Jackson, and Elizabeth Mitchel
Kingston Design Remodeling
11515 Suburban Place
Fairfax Station VA 22039
(703) 323-6527 - phone

kingstonbuilders@cox.net
www.kingstonbuilders.com

c. 2006 All rights reserved.

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