While designing a house from scratch usually requires professional help, it's not always clear if you need a remodel contractor. If you have a remodeling project you plan to handle on your own, is it necessary to hire somebody to help? Here are some of the key points to consider when it comes to remodeling contractors:
What's the difference between a renovation and a remodel?
Renovation refers to a project meant to restore or enhance an existing structure or feature. A remodel, however, usually involves building or adding something entirely new.
What does a full remodel include?
Remodeling is usually done to change the function or design of a space. This may be done by removing walls in bathrooms or by transforming a kitchen's layout so cabinets and sinks have different locations. If you make significant changes to multiple rooms in the home, you can consider it a full home remodel.
Do I need a contractor to remodel my house?
A remodeling contractor usually has architectural training as well as experience in remodeling. They will serve as your liaison to coordinate hiring labor, ordering materials, obtaining applicable building permits and working within your budget and deadlines.
How do I find local contractors?
If you've decided to hire a contractor, the next question might be: How do I find the right one? Some great ways to find an excellent contractor include:
- Asking friends or colleagues for personal recommendations.
- Asking your real estate agent for professional connections.
- Searching online for reviews in your local area.
What should I look for in a renovation contract?
A home remodeling contractor will draw up a contract for you and your proposed job. These contracts include the pertinent details of your partnership, including:
- License numbers and liability insurance information.
- A clear list of requested changes or tasks.
- Protocol for access to job site.
- Budget and timeframe.
- Payment schedule.
These are only a few things you'll find on a remodeling contract, but a reputable contractor will go through every piece of the document to make sure everybody understands expectations.
In addition to handling important details like finding quality materials and obtaining all the necessary permits, a general contractor will help give you peace of mind about your project. Keep these factors in mind when putting together the details of your next home improvement adventure.
About the Author
Kimberly Hering
Kimberly Hering's devotion to helping people achieve their real estate goals stems from her genuine enjoyment of the process. Whatever the task, Kimberly makes it her mission to get it done, however she can, without compromising her client's needs. Often, that means thinking outside the box. After working with Kimberly, clients describe her as being Trustworthy, Creative, Patient, Highly Skilled, Attentive to the Process and having a lot of Integrity.
After spending more than 15 successful years working on Wall Street, Kimberly transitioned into Real Estate, joining Alain Pinel Realtors, then moving to Zephyr, now Corcoran Global Living, in 2018. During her career on Wall Street, Kimberly was a Vice President working as an Institutional Equity Salesperson for Montgomery Securities for 10 years. She covered the top money managers throughout the US and Canada. She joined Jefferies & Co as a Senior Vice President managing the Western Region Institutional Sales group, while continuing to cover the top money managers.
Kimberly leverages her extensive experience selling equities to top money managers throughout the US and Canada, to successfully negotiating any Real Estate transaction seamlessly for her clients. Kimberly is well versed in Marin's neighborhoods, towns, cities, and education system.
Living in the Bay Area for 35 years, 25 years in Marin and having 2 sons in local Marin schools, Kimberly spends a lot of time volunteering in the community and serving on various local Boards. Kimberly has a collection of resources ranging from the best local breakfast spots to vetted contractors. With her reliable list of valuable resources, Real Estate experience and unsurpassed knowledge of Marin's many communities, Kimberly can guide her clients through every aspect of a Real Estate transaction seamlessly.
Relocating to Marin, downsizing, upsizing, first time home buying, final home purchase or sale, or a lot to build a dream home, no matter the undertaking, Kimberly works seamlessly until the job at hand is completed with 100% satisfaction.