FREE PRESS HOME IMPROVEMENT MARCH 16, 1995 B19 Guarantee success by planning A home addition or remodeling project can add value to your life and to your home. Best of all, the project doesn’t need to be extensive or expensive to provide you with more space today and increased value at resale time. Before you begin, remember that careful planning ensures happiness upon completion of a remodeling project. This planning includes an important question to ask yourself and your family: “Do we have the time, talents and resources necessary to do the job ourselves, or should we hire a professional?” Putting It On Paper A successful start to any remodeling project is putting your plans on paper. Start with a thorough inventory of your home. List what you like and dislike, and identify your current and future needs. Next, list what you’d like to change about your home and develop a “wish list” of features for this new change. This list will be helpful as you proceed with planning and setting your budget. Hiring A Designer If your project involves moving walls, redesigning space or building a home addition, you’ll probably need an architect or designer. This person’s professional expertise will ensure that the completed project enhances your home and satisfies you. Consult with friends who have completed remodeling projects or check with a local professional association. Choose two or three architects to meet and discuss your project. Ask to see recently completed jobs and for the names of clients. After you’ve chosen an architect, work closely with him or her while your plans are being developed. This is an important time to ask questions and to modify your plans. Hire A Pro Or Do It Yourself? Now that your plans are on paper, it’s time to make the decision to do the work yourself or hire a professional remodeler. Ultimately, you should consider quality. If the finished product isn’t consistent with the rest of the home, the money saved will not be money earned at resale. Here are three questions to consider as you’re making this decision. • Do 1 have the time to do the job right? • Do I have the skills required? • Will the quality be consistent with the existing construction? If you can’t answer “yes” to all of these questions, then you’ll probably be better off hiring a professional. The next step is choosing a contractor for your project. Begin by developing a list of four or five contractors referred by friends or associations, (like the Prince George Home Builder’s Association). Use the following criteria to help choose a qualified contractor. • Get rough estimates. Use your plan to describe what you want and find a realistic price range. • Establish credentials. Contact the Better Business Bureau and see if the contractor is bonded and has protection for worker’s 30-50%off Designer... W Fixtures W Faucets W Lamps Shower Curtains W Housecoats W Towels ^ Bath Accessories Dream Baths by Vanities Plus ■ "Your complete Bath & Gift Boutique” 350 QnmtjiMi)' • Prince George • 563-5669 50% Less Dust leads to 50% Less Dusting. Best of all, it’s 50% OFF 1543 Victoria Street, Redwood Square * 562*1500 All this can be yours - all you have to do is plan ahead and decide whether to do-lt-your-self or hire a professional. • Ask for references. They are critical to determine the contractor’s workmanship and business ethics. • Get a firm bid by submitting the working blueprint to several of the best candidates. Make sure the contractors are using the same information on products used and work done. Once you’re satisfied with a single contractor, get a written contract that outlines details of the project and each individual’s obligations. This should include costs, payment schedules and penalties, if any. Most payment schedules require money down, an amount when the project is half done, and the balance upon completion. Never pay total costs in advance and make sure you are completely satisfied before making a payment. START RENOVATING EARLY Whether it be a distinctive front entry unit or vinyl replacement window. Call us today! Complete: • Window & Door Packages • Interior Finish Packages • Custom Doors Builders or building your own home, bring your plans in for a FREE ESTIMATE on your windows