Home remodeling can be a stressful, time-consuming, and costly undertaking. To avoid budget and schedule overruns as well as unnecessary frustration, consider leaving the project to professionals. Experienced home remodeling professionals will see to it that the project is completed in an organized way, and ensure work is completed to code and to your expectations. However, there are different types of pros available, each with different roles and responsibilities. It is important to do your homework if you are to hire the right person for the job depending on your desired remodel.
Here at GreatBuildz, a free service that connects homeowners in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura, and San Diego with reliable home remodeling contractors, we speak to homeowners every day about choosing the right professionals for their remodel – here are some considerations and tips to get you started.
Your Home Remodeling Team: Who to Hire and When
The importance of enlisting experts’ help when remodeling your home cannot be denied. However, before assembling a team for your project, take time to learn about what each home remodeling company does. This will go a long way in helping you make informed decisions regarding who and when to hire for your home remodel.
Architect
This design professional will assess and plan any structural changes to your home. This will go a long way in ensuring your spaces are both safe and functional after the remodel. An architect can also create a custom design to meet your unique needs and suit your style.
During the design phase, a home remodel architect will make sure the design satisfies building codes as well as specific structural demands. Afterward, the professional will work with the contractor to ensure the successful implementation of the design.
Hire an architect if your project involves:
- Making significant changes to the interior floor plan
- Alterations to the structure of your home
- Moving major components of the home
- A whole-house remodel
- New construction or additions to the home
Interior Designer for Home Remodeling
An interior designer focuses on creating an aesthetically pleasing, harmonious, and functional space. This professional can help you choose flooring, countertops, cabinetry, fixtures, colors, and materials. In addition, they can design custom pieces to reflect your style and suit your lifestyle. Lastly, a designer will work with the construction team to achieve the desired results.
Consider hiring an interior designer if you:
- Are not sure how to plan your space
- Need guidance regarding style and design
- Have a difficult time choosing the best materials and finishes
- Want to make sure your planned space will function well
Home Remodeling Contractor or General Contractor
A home remodeling contractor is an important team member when taking on a home remodeling project. Such projects can have many moving parts at any given time, making it difficult to keep track of things. A contractor will not only be in charge of the project but will also be your main contact and responsible party.
A top general contractor will manage different aspects of the project including acquiring building permits, hiring subcontractors, coordinating activities, and supervising work to ensure the job is done right.
You should hire a home remodeling contractor when:
- The project involves more than one specialty tradesman
- You have never taken on a home remodeling project
- The project is expected to take more than a week
- The project will cost over a few thousand dollars
When assembling a project team, you do not have to choose one type of home professional over another. Oftentimes, these professionals will work together to achieve wonderful things. In the end, who you hire will depend on the scope and budget of your project.
How do I Find Quality Home Remodeling Contractors near me?
The home remodeling company you hire can mean the difference between the success and failure of your project. Therefore you should find the best qualified general contractor. With the numerous options available on the market, narrowing down your choices can be difficult. The following tips can help you make the right choice.
Plan for your Contractor Search
In order to find the best home remodeling contractor, you have to know what exactly you want. A remodeling project is about you and your home. This is why it is important to not only know the main goals you want to accomplish in the remodel but also have a plan.
When you have a written plan, you will be in a better position to explain your vision to the contractor. This will make it easier to identify a professional that is the right fit for your needs.
Ask Your Friends and Family
Asking around for recommendations is a great way to find a top Los Angeles home remodeling contractor with the required skills, expertise, and experience. Friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues that have recently undertaken a home remodeling project can point you in the right direction.
Check Licensing, Certification, and Insurance
One way to narrow down your list is to ask potential candidates about their licensing, certification, and insurance information. A quality contractor will not only have the correct licenses, binds, and insurance but will also be willing to show them to you. This will go a long way in making sure the job is done legally and safely. The right insurance coverage will also protect you from liability claims in case of an accident.
Check Portfolios
When looking to remodel your home, you will want to hire a home remodeling company that has handled similar projects in the past. Also, it is important to look for a professional with a creative eye. Reviewing a contractor’s portfolio will help you to determine whether they will meet your expectations. This will give you the assurance that your project will be in capable hands.
Ask the Right Questions
Before making a final decision, take time to meet each home remodeling company in person. During the initial consultation, ask the right questions. Seek to find out whether the professional will take care of the building permits, how long the project will take, if the team will include subcontractors, how they prefer to communicate, and how they handle conflicts.
Speak With Multiple Contractors
It is important to compare several home remodeling contractors before settling on one. Seek well-defined bids to help you determine the contractor that offers the best value for the money. Lastly, make sure there is a written contract and remember to read it carefully before signing on the dotted line.
Start Your Home Remodeling Project Today
When it comes to planning and coordinating a residential renovation, you shouldn’t have to go it alone – GreatBuildz can help simplify your renovation experience.
GreatBuildz is a free service that connects homeowners in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura or San Diego with reliable, thoroughly screened general contractors and provides project support from start to finish.
Call now (818.317.3567) to chat with a real person about your next renovation project or visit our website for more information: www.greatbuildz.com
