Daniels Design and Remodeling - Questions & Answers

Questions and Answers

How do I know that I'm getting a top quality remodeling contractor?
What will be involved in the remodeling process?
What about the cost? -- Is the project going to be a good return on the investment?
Should we move or remodel? – It’s a big decision we are not sure about.

Q: How do I know that I'm getting a top quality remodeling contractor?

A: Remodeling is very different from new home building. In most remodeling projects the contractors are working within the confines of an occupied home. Being able to operate in these circumstances with the least amount of disruption to the homeowners is a very tough thing to do. If the remodeler can do that well - you have a great remodeling contractor. To find a remodeler who can meet these criteria means talking with former clients of the prospective remodeler. Finding out about the remodeler: level of skill; , craftsmanship, and professional operations are other important factors to consider. These can be determined by viewing projects the remodeler has completed, talking with former clients, and looking for certain key aspects of their operation. Be sure to:

See a copy of the contractor's license and proof of insurance.
Find out about projects like yours which they have done.
Look at projects they have done, either through photographs or by visiting at an actual location.
Find out information about the history of the firm (years in business, experiences, background, etc.).
Notice their presentation methods, how they look, if they show up on time, and whether they provide useful information
Contact several of their references and discuss the contractor's cleanliness, competency, if they kept within budget, and if they finished on time.

Q: What will be involved in the remodeling process?

A: Three segments compose the remodeling process. These can roughly be defined as:

Identifying and defining the scope of the work to be done
Developing a design and plans to carry out the work
Performing the actual construction plan

The process begins by discussing your needs, developing a list of "wants and wishes", and centering in on what it is that you are looking for in the "big Picture". [HINT: Don't get bogged down in the details - keep the main idea up front.] In addition, it is a good idea to create a file of pictures, magazine clippings, and ideas you have for the project. Jot things down as you think of them.

The second step would be to meet with your remodeler to solidify the ideas and get additional thoughts from the builder's perspective. In concert with the remodeler, you will be able to develop the plans and a design to carry out the work. This area will include making selections for the various components of your project, from fixtures, paint colors, and a multitude of finishes.

The third step in the process is the actual construction - which in itself has a number of different segments. Those segments include: A.) Mobilization - collecting the materials and tools and equipment needed for the project and bring them to the site; setting up protective barriers before demolition/construction begins. B.) Demolition/Construction - removing any elements, which will not be part of the finished project, collecting/disposing of the debris, and beginning the construction process. C.) Finalizing the Project - checking each aspect of the work to insure that it matches the contracted agreement and walking the project with the remodeler to verify completion and note end items to finish.

Q: WHAT ABOUT THE COST? -- Is the project going to be a good return on the investment?

A: One of the major factors in remodeling will be the cost. Listed below are some average costs, within the Washington metropolitan area, for specific remodeling projects. The figures represent costs based on projects designed for specific clients and are meant to help define a project's financial "ballpark".

PROJECT	Average Cost
Complete Kitchen remodel	$30,000-$120,000
Minor Kitchen remodel (facelift)	$18,000-$40,000
Family Room Addition	$35,000-$150,000
Master Suite Addition	$100,000-$220,000
Master Bath Remodel	$15,000-$70,000
Bath	$8,000-$20,000
Two Story Addition	$50,000-$300,000
Sun Room Addition	$35,000-$95,000
Deck	$5,000-$25,000

This graph* shows the approximate return on an investment for various remodeling projects in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

* Source: Remodeling Magazine, Cost vs. Value Report 2000-2001

Q: SHOULD WE MOVE OR REMODEL? – It’s a big decision we are not sure about.

A: We often work with clients who are uncertain if remodeling is the right choice for their situation. The question is: "Should we move or improve?" The answer can be found by examining three areas of concern.

If the neighborhood, schools, and friends are positive - it is probably good to stay put.
If the general feeling of your home, its lot and general surroundings are good - then that's another reason to stay put.
If the commute to work and the services and amenities of the area are positive - then that's yet another reason to stay put.

If all of your answers are positive, then it definitely is a good idea to stay and remodel.