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Adding new living space to your home or renovating existing outdated rooms could be one of the best investments you'll ever make.
The whole family would benefit from an added family room or bedroom, an extra bathroom or a modern new kitchen. Generally, the value of your property will increase in proportion to the improvements made. An exception to this rule occurs when an improvemnt is poorly done. Some renovations done in an improper way, by a "do-it-yourselfer" or an unqualified contractor, actually detract from the value of the home.
When undertaking any remodeling project, it is important that you deal with qualified people. A major addition to your home would require the services of an experienced and competent general building or remodeling contractor, and possibly an architect rather than a carpenter.
If a kitchen or bathroom is part of your plan, kitchen and bathroom dealers/designers are the ultimate experts in this field. Kitchen/bathroom designers are specialists who concentrate on the two primary, and most expensive rooms in the house. These two rooms are the most difficult to design because of the vast amount of fixtures, appliances, accessories, cabinetry, countertop materials, etc. that are available. All of the various items must be coordinated in the design so that these rooms are functional as well as pleasing in appearance. Most kitchen and bathroom designer/dealer firms are members of the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
A family room can be more than four walls with some windows. An experienced contractor, who has built many family rooms in the past, can design and build a room that is unique to your wants and needs. Contractors and builders design the majority of houses built and renovated each year. If major design plans are required involving elaborate structural changes, competent contractors usually have a working agreement with a qualified architect.
Remodeling can be more complicated than building new and is a specialized business. Often, when structural changes are involved, there are pipes, electrical wires, heat ducts and other hidden obstructions to be rerouted. Ceilings have to be supported where bearing walls are town out, new plaster and brick work has to be blended into the old. A major remodeling job requires the skills of many different trades and a competent contractor to coordinate the work.
Since your home is probably your biggest single investment, be sure that you deal with a qualified contractor on any remodeling contract. REMEMBER, THE LOWEST PRICE ISN'T ALWAYS THE BEST BUY!
Here are some questions that you should get answers to:
How long has he been in business?
Does he have a regular place of business that you can contact during business hours?
Is he licensed and insured?
Can he give you a referral list of past completed jobs?
Can you inspect these jobs?
Has he had experience with projects similar to yours?
Is his quote detailed and in writing?
Is the contract clearly worded?
Have you checked him out with the Better Business Bureau and local building department?
If the answers to these questions are affirmative, chances are excellent that your project will turn out just the way you want.
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