Remodel Survival Guide ( in bite sizes, Part 2 of 3)

Remodeling can simultaneously be one of the most beneficial and stressful experiences in a homeowner’s life. The rewards for significantly changing your current home can be immense: a more functional floor plan, better lighting, inspirational colors, and a happier family. The stress that many homeowners encounter during a remodel comes from trying to take on too much work without properly planning the project. Making bite-sized decisions instead of trying to do everything at once can prevent heartache as well as houseache. The next few blog posts will give great suggestions for making the most of your remodeling experience. Here’s the second great tip:

Have a Talk about Job Site Expectations
A contractor friend of mine likes to remind his clients that a remodel is not only about getting a good result, it’s also about having a good experience while the work is going on. Here are questions you can ask up front to optimize your remodeling experience:

Are the subs allowed to use your bathroom? Can they leave their tools and materials on site? What condition will the site be left in daily? Will they watch their language around the tots? Talking with your contractor about these issues ahead of time will prevent difficult conversations and confrontations during the remodel. Nothing smacks of “awwwwkwarrrrd” more than telling the contractor after the fact that the subs can’t use the potty.

Stay tuned for more exciting tips next week on surviving your remodel, and check out our calendar of events for the “live” version of the Remodel Survival Guide seminar.