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What’s the biggest mistake homeowners
make when planning a renovation?
NOT HIRING A DESIGNER
Designers know how to
access what’s new in the
market and how to choose
what would look the best in
your space. Some designers
even share their discounts!
Designers can optimize the
function of your space and
offer suggestions that you
may not have considered.
They can help improve the
look and feel of your space
so that existing furnishings
fit comfortably, ensuring that
the renovated space ties into
the rest of your home. They
specialize in making sure
that the undertones in the
paint colors, fabrics and wall
coverings work together.
Photo by ANA Interiors
They also check that
electrical items are correctly
placed on walls, ceilings and
floors. When needed they
can also plan cabinetry and
millwork to accommodate
appliances, plumbing
fixtures, venting, and storage
needs.
A designer can save you
money by helping you avoid
expensive fixes and delays.
- Ana Cummings, ANA
Interiors, www.anainteriors.
com
GOING FOR THE LOWEST QUOTE As
they say, you get what you pay for. Here are
some things to consider when
deciding which company to
hire:
#1 TRADESPEOPLE Projects
have to be managed well
and it's essential that your
contractor has a good pool of
tradespeople.
#2 BREATHING ROOM IN THE
BUDGET When the contract
leaves no room for error, cutting
corners is something they could
consider. A good contractor
always suggests leaving a bit
of room in the budget and immediately brings
any issues that might effect budget to your
attention.
#3 AFTER MOVE IN SERVICE If this is not
included, the contractor is not required to
come back and fix any mistakes you may not
notice until after you've settled in. - JT Bhabra,
TRUbuild Custom Homes, www.trubuild.com.
NOT EDUCATING
YOURSELF ON THE
PROCESS Before
you begin, do some
research and create
a realistic budget.
Homeowners often
come to us wanting
to start a project
right away without
realizing the time
needed to complete
the preliminary
process. Building
permits alone can
take up to 6 months
or more to obtain. Prior to hiring a contractor, an
important step is to check references and read
reviews on the company.
When you’re creating your budget be aware of
additional expenses such as building permits, survey
fees and mandatory asbestos examinations.
Unplanned design changes and revisions can also
increase the project cost and should be considered
carefully with the initial budget in mind. - Bole
Cirovic, Modular Home Additions, www.modular.ca