I’m inheriting my parent’s house, and now it needs some serious updating. However, I’m not sure how much planning I need to do before I hire a contractor, especially since I need an expert’s advice to know what work needs to be done and how much I can afford.
For example, I think I’d like to upgrade the windows, redo the front porch and update the kitchen. Should I pick out the finishes first, so that I have a materials budget before I hire?
Hi Warren,
This question is easy and hard to answer, but it all comes down to the contractor you hire. Each contractor will charge you to their “best” knowledge. For example, I usually go a few weeks before the Project’s start date to give a FREE estimate to the client. I breakdown each of the areas of concern to the client and create a spreadsheet for them to move their priorities around to their liking. After they have a solid spreadsheet I will give them prices of four to five stores for each area of concern (Example: Porch - H.D. $200 , B.M. $150, W.S. $100 etc). The client then decides (lets say B.M.) and then I will give them the option of buying the products in advance for a lower project price or I will purchase the products and include it in the project price. As you see, not much planning would need to be done ahead of time, but that’s not the case with every contractor. In other words, be prepared with an average price range like the one above for each renovation you want to have done and sum them up for an “average total” (estimate). NEVER just go to one store - I would say that’s the biggest mistake most clients make. You would also want to be prepared for the worst, aka I have seen some pretty bad contractors who make you put down a lot of money for cheap work. I am straight forward with my clients and I tell them to always get a second or third opinion and then come back if they are interested in what I am offering. Lastly I would say don’t be afraid of asking. For example, ask the Home Depot specialist for a price range for the windows; it never hurts to ask (as said before the more opinions you get the better).