"Before" Addition

"After" Addition

As a homeowner, you should plan carefully when deciding to remodel your home. Several questions must he answered before you begin a project:

1. How much can I afford to invest on improvements?

2. Which improvements are most important to me?

3. Will my ideas improve the value of my home?

4. Will I want the help of a professional?(recommended)

These are only a few of the many questions you should ask when considering a remodeling project. If you decide that a remodeling project is for you, there are certain procedures that can aid and make your decision a pleasant one.

Decide on what you want done. Before meeting with a contractor, make a list of your ideas, however few or unsure, to include design, features you want included, as well as those you definitely do not want. If your project is complicated, including structural changes or other design features that alter the appearance of your home, be prepared to hire an architect. Frequently, a full service contractor will have these services available.

When you decide to choose a contractor, make sure that he is fully insured for Liability, Property Damage, and Workmen's Compensation. In Illinois, a workman hurt on your property is your responsibility unless the contractor is properly insured.

Be sure that the contractor has been in the business for a minimum of 10 years. Differentiate between number of "years experience" and number of "years in business." Further, beware of contractors who offer a "special price if you sign right now," or ask you to pay for the entire job in advance. Membership in a professional organization such as the National Kitchen & Bath Association (for a dealer or designer) or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) (for the contractor) is a fairly strong indication that the professional you are considering working with has a good reputation.

Your home is you single largest investment, and changes should be made to protect and enhance your investment. For a satisfying experience, you and your contractor must be able to harmoniously work together to make your dreams a reality.