Finding A Remodeler

Happy National Kitchen and Bath Month

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It’s National Kitchen and Bath Month, according to a Google Alert I received, so we’re celebrating by talking about ideas for your kitchens and bathrooms. Let’s jump in!

The National Association for Home Builders unveiled a report on kitchen trends, and granite countertops, wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances are leading the way.

An interesting wrinkle: While builders seem to prefer those classics, homeowners might be looking elsewhere on a couple of items, according to Zillow.

First, tuxedo cabinets (cabinets painted in complementary colors) seem to be catching on. Also, some homeowners are looking into quartz, butcher block, and marble countertops.

For bathroom trends, we are taking the advice of HGTV guru Matthew Muenster, who recently spoke to WTOP, Washington D.C.’s top news.

First up, unless you use a bath tub regularly, don’t plan for a tub. He says they take up too much space in what are usually smaller rooms.

Next, since people start and finish their days in the bathroom, he is a fan of injecting some comforts, namely built-in coffee machines or music players. But that’s not even the craziest suggestion!

Muenster makes the case for a fire place with a wine fridge, if you have the space and money to do so, of course. And it makes sense. I know my wife enjoys a glass of wine with a long bath.

Lastly, if you are looking for a less expensive type of bathroom luxury, check out heated floors or towel warmers.

Have a great week!

Let the basics guide your next home remodel

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In pop culture, being basic isn’t always a good thing. But when it comes to home remodeling, being basic can serve as a great guide to achieving your remodeling goals.

With this in mind, we came across a great article about the five basics of home remodeling. It has great advice that serves as a jumping off point for your next remodel. We’ll spotlight our favorites.

The first tip has to do with style. Too often, the article notes, people will want a home to be in one overarching style, when in reality, their home will be more of a melting pot with elements of several styles. To truly transform a standard home into a bungalow or Victorian style will up your costs. Incorporating a few of those elements will not.

A related tip has to do with design. The article preaches better design, not bigger design. Too many times a homeowner will immediately think they need an addition to solve their space issues. That’s an expensive path. Instead, enlist the help of professionals who can help find ways to reclaim unused space or evaluate the layout of a home. Taking down a wall or converting a closet can change the flow of a home, and is less invasive than adding a boxy addition.

Lastly, the article suggests creating a master plan and creating a budget. The two are hand in hand. A master plan outlines construction milestones and protects both the customer and builder. A budget creates an understanding between the customer and contractor. The article also suggests budgeting 5% to 10% in wiggle room.

Have a good weekend!

Tips to save money on your next home remodel

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It’s September already? If you’re struggling to cope with the fact that we are two-thirds through with 2016, come over and take a seat with us!

Even in small ways, it’s tough realizing you are running out of time. For instance, we’re looking back at all the articles that caught our eye and wondering why we didn’t write about them.

Case in point, our favorite tips from realtor.com about how to save money when you remodel. All six of the tips hold up, but here are our Top 3.

First up, make sure you speak to a few contractors, and compare and contrast their estimates. Don’t be afraid to ask pointed questions about costs. Good contractors will be happy to elaborate on their estimates. Bad contractors will hide behind excuses.

Next, consider your timing. As the article notes, most contractors are not as busy between January and March. That could lead to some big deals! Also, since that is right around tax season, you could get a boost in the budget department from a tax refund.

Finally, don’t be afraid to go bargain hunting. Don’t marry yourself to a certain type of tub or flooring. Instead, ask the contractor if there are comparable materials from a previous job, or if he or she knows where they can locate some clearance items. Seek deals and ye shall find them!

Enjoy the long weekend!