12 Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

1. Get at least 3 written estimates.

2. Check references. If possible, view earlier jobs the contractor completed.

3. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau for complaints.

4. Be sure the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled.

5. Make as small of a down payment as possible so you won't lose a lot if the contractor fails to complete the job.

6. Be sure that the contractor has the necessary permits, licenses, and insurance.

7. Check that the contract states when the work will be completed and what recourse you have if it isn't. Also, remember that in many instances you can cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.

8. Ask if the contractor's workers will do the entire job or whether subcontractors will be involved too.

9. Get the contractor to indemnify you if work does not meet any local building codes or regulations.

10. Be sure that the contract specifies the contractor will clean up after the job and be responsible for any damage. In addition, make sure any potential demo work is also included.

11. Guarantee that the materials that will be used meet your specifications.

12. NEVER make the final payment until you're satisfied with the work, it's completely finished, and every little detail is wrapped up.

Quick Low Cost Tips: Cabinet Fronts

Home owners should consider updating tired looking kitchen cabinets. Reconditioning is the least expensive move for under $1,000. If the wood is starting to look shabby from use or contaminants in the air, you can take out nicks and scratches, recondition it with oil, and put new hardware on. For $1,500 to $4,000, owners can replace the cabinet doors and drawer fronts, and for $4,000 to $10,000, they can have all the cabinets refaced, all depending on the style and decor the owner chooses.

This is far cheaper than replacing old cabinets with a completely new set which can cost $15,000 to $20,000 and up depending on the size kitchen, style cabinet, and quality. With refacing, owners can change the color of the cabinets by replacing the door and having a new skin put on the boxes. If you have oak cabinets today, you can have cherry the next day!

Remodeling Projects That Pay Off

Some interesting numbers have just come out for those who are interested in doing some remodeling to their homes. According to the 2009-2010 Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report, exterior projects add more value than interior ones. Here are some numbers specific to the West South Central Region of the United States (Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma). Keep in mind that these are averages and that the rates of return can be effected greatly by location, neighborhood, scope of project, and quality of materials used.

239%

Percentage of cost recouped by replacing an entry door with new steel unit, the highest return of any project in the report.

69.2%

Percentage of cost recouped by adding a 16' x 20' composite deck.

81.1%

Percentage of cost recouped by adding a 16' x 20' foot wood deck.

97.7%

Percentage of cost recouped by converting an attic to a bedroom, the highest return of any interior project.

61.3%

Estimated return from adding a master suite, the most expensive project in the report with one of the lowest rates of return.

For more remodeling project numbers go here: http://www.remodeling.hw.net/2009/costvsvalue/national.aspx