Think Before You Spend

A few of the mistakes that people make when they make the decision to remodel something. This could be to replace a deck, remodel a kitchen or a bathroom etc. or finish a basement. The first thing that happens, and this is unavoidable, is that they get exited. However, this  leads to the first common mistake, "they go shopping". Usually this happens BEFORE they have any idea how much they can afford to spend or want to spend. Shopping is fine as long as you don't get your heart set on things that might bust the budget. Remember, you haven't even talked to a contractor yet. What are the material and labor costs going to be? Do you need a permit? What"s that going to cost. Get some estimates first. Have the contractor take your ideas and see if these are going to work. You may like that 6 foot whirlpool tub, but your room is only 5 feet wide, and the cost of moving a wall, and/or plumbing and electrical may be a stretch on the budget. The biggest mistake people make, and these are rare, is they actually purchase things like tile, tubs, vanities etc. before they know what's possible. Especially discontinued items because it was such a good deal. Get your estimates first, see if you need a permit, and then you can fit product into your budget. Also, remember that special order items take time to be shipped to the store you've chosen. Tell the contractor about these. Some items MUST be on site for the contractor to begin his work. Most importantly, don't pay a contractor up front for work he hasn't done. Next posting, we'll talk about what to look for in a contractor. It's April, time to get started. Go get 'em.