Diamond Certified

Video: Preparing for a Remodel - video transcript

If you're planning on a remodel, you'll first need to know where to start today. We're in Redwood City with Diamond Certified expert contributor Jim Atkins of Walter W Springs Construction to hear his advice on preparing for a remodel. Many people do not know where to begin when doing a remodeling project. Where do you begin? One of the most important aspects of any project is to is a budget that you can afford, or that will be appropriate for your neighborhood. Remember, establishing a budget early on will drive the entire process through design, permit process, as well as the construction process. The next thing to think about is a time frame. Do you have time limits on this project? Does it need to be completed by a certain date? That will certainly affect the budget and potentially the project as a whole. Also, what are the city requirements? Is there something that your city requires you to do that will add additional costs that are unable to be met by your budget? Most cities have very good websites and that information is readily available. If it's not available, a trip to the building department and talking with the Planning and Building officials is a great idea. Tons of information to be gained. Also, what is your wish list? Are you expecting to get more square footage? Do you want an additional bathroom? Or is there any special needs that are required for you to make this project a success? Next, you will need to hire a design professional and a general contractor. Hiring the two of them at the same time, or at least engaging them at the same time, is always a good idea. Remember, you have a budget to be met and the building contractor is the one who's going to establish that budget followed by the design that will give you what you want within that budget. To learn more from local top-rated companies, visit our Diamond Certified expert reports at experts.DiamondCertified.org.