Remodel & Interior Design FAQ’s

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Who Should I Hire First…the Contractor or the Interior Designer?   It is a huge benefit for your home renovation to hire the interior designer first. An interior designer will interview you and become knowledgeable about what you want and the overall program for your renovation. Then they will act as your advocate when dealing with the contractor. The homeowner is at a true advantage when they hire the designer first.   Why Is It Important To Hire A General Contractor For My Remodel? Will serve as a single point of contact throughout the project They manage all aspects for the project…design, permits, scheduling, purchasing materials, supervising the sub contractors and getting the proper inspections. They must be a licensed, bonded and insured professional and comply with all state and local building codes Most renovations, additions, kitchen and bathroom remodels are best handled by a licensed General Contractor because they normally consist of demolition, slab, framing, electrical, plumbing, etc and this type of work needs to be done by skilled sub contractors and supervised by a professional.     What Are The Benefits Of Hiring A Design/Build Company? These are “all-in-one” companies which allow you the convenience of just dealing with one key contact person to complete your project. They are responsible for your project from the design conception all the way through final construction. Many also have their own sub contractors and architects. This can save the homeowner time and money and give them piece-of-mind.       My Entire House Needs To Be Updated…Which Room Should I Start With? The Kitchen! It’s a great place to start since it’s the “hub” of the family and the finishes and materials will dictate the rest of the home. It will also give you the best return on your investment. A kitchen makeover will make your home feel brand new.     I Plan To Hire An Architect And Contractor For My Project…Should I Hire An Interior Designer, Too? If you just hire an architect and contractor you’ll be missing a “key component” in your renovation. Your renovation will require the selection of cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, appliances, flooring, paint colors, scale and placement of furniture, etc. Having these decisions and selections made before construction will prevent many headaches and delays.   My Home Needs To Be Remodeled And Decorated…When Should I Hire An Interior Designer? Hire your interior designer early in the process, not just at the end of the project to select finishes and furniture. A designer’s role varies from making material recommendations to helping you make smart decisions about your remodeling budget. Hiring an interior designer at the onset of a project can save money in the long run and make the process run smoothly, timely and efficiently.     I’d Like To Redecorate My Home…What Are The Benefits Of Using An Interior Designer? It’s a smart choice if you don’t have any decorating or design experience. Even if you have good taste and some talent, an experienced interior designer knows how to make your house look its very best. You’ll get the best possible look for your home because they are experts and they know what kind of décor and furniture will be best for your lifestyle, budget and home architecture. They have great quality resources. Interior designers have access to many showrooms that are not open to the public, which will give your home a true decorated feel. Home decorating and design is not as easy as one may presume. There is a lot of forethought and preparation that goes into making a room look professionally done. Many amateurs end up with poor and disappointing results when they try to do it on their own. If You’ve Been Living In An Outdated Home… Then It’s Time To Get Started… You Deserve It!   With Sandella you’ll have ONE point of Contact from Concept to Completion for your Convenience! MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY! http://www.Sandella.net

Tip: How To Set Up The Perfect Home Bar…

HOW TO SET UP THE PERFECT HOME BAR     The Tools: In order to have the perfect home bar you must have the proper tools to create a delicious cocktail. Below are the “must have” tools. Jigger An hour glass shaped container used to measure and pour liquids when making a cocktail. A double jigger comes in handy to ensure that the exact amount of alcohol goes into each glass.  It flips over for each measure.                   Martini Pitcher A tall and elegant glass pitcher used to mix and serve martinis. Look for a pitcher that has a “pinched” spout that will hold back the ice when pouring. It’s the essential mixing vessel for martinis!                         Muddler A tool used for mashing fruits, herbs or spices to release their flavors in the bottom of a glass. Crush cilantro for a margarita or mash sugar and citrus together for a mojito. Be sure to always mash in the shaker or glass you’ll be using.                   Bar Spoon A long handled spoon to mix drinks. The long handle can mix a drink in the tallest tumbler.                       Citrus Squeezer Fresh squeezed fruits make the best cocktails! It’s the quickest and easiest way to get the most juice and least amount of pulp.                     Bar Knife Always have sharp knives at your bar for cocktail prep work. Slice and chop everything ahead of time – especially if you’ll be drinking!                 Shaker Used to mix drinks by shaking usually with ice                     Best Ice Trays The bigger the ice cube the slower it melts. These will keep your drink cold without watering it down.  This tray makes square shaped cubes.  It is sold at Sur La Table                  Strainer A strainer is needed to remove ice before pouring a cocktail into a glass.             Rim Sugars and Salts Rim a glass with sugar or salt to add an extra decorative touch and flavor to a cocktail. Moisten the rim of the glass with lemon or lime then dip the rim in sugar or salt. If you’re mixing a chocolate martini moisten the rim with Kahlua and dip the rim in cocoa powder. Yum!             Cocktail Napkins Serve it up on a stylish napkin. Many are available in prints, bright colors or monogrammed.                 HOW MUCH BOOZE SHOULD YOU HAVE FOR A PARTY…  CHEERS!   With Sandella you’ll have ONE point of Contact from Concept to Completion for your Convenience! MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY! http://www.Sandella.net

Proper Table Setting

Proper Table Setting   With the upcoming spring holidays, I thought I’d share about how to properly set a table.  Perhaps you need a reminder of where the cutlery should be placed around the tableware.  With our casual lifestyles it’s easy to forget how a proper set table should look.  Here’s a refresher showing how to set a table.  If your hosting a holiday dinner or you just want to throw a spring garden party this information will be helpful.   FORMAL TABLE SETTING:     OPTIONS:  Dessert spoon can be placed above the plate (facing left) with the dessert fork – with the tines pointing right   Salad bowl or dish can be placed to the left with bread plate above fork   Glass above the knife – glasses to be used first go on the outside – glasses line up from the first one        INFORMAL TABLE SETTING:           BREAKFAST TABLE SETTING:          Remember…Left for eating, Right for Drinking. Start at the outside and work in.    Napkin Placement: It depends on your preference and there are many folding variations that can be created. There are napkin folding books that can teach you how. As a default, the napkin can be placed in the water glass, folded on the dinner plate, or beside the flatware on the left. You may not want to use all of the tableware pieces shown in the above diagrams, they are optional and it also depends on what you are serving. I have a napkin folding book and I like to put my creation on top of the plate.    There are so many decorative and fun napkin rings that can adorn a folded napkin if you’re not up to learning the napkin folds.  Buffet Style: If you’re going to be serving buffet style (I serve buffet style a lot) the plates are not put on the table. They are piled on the buffet serving table.  Put the napkin in the center (where the plate would otherwise go).    Easter Table Setting   Elegant and Colorful Table Setting  Modern Table Setting Simplistic Table Setting Tea Party Table Setting  Dinner for Two Table Setting Natural Table Setting   Outdoor / Casual Table Setting   Creating a beautiful table setting doesn’t have to be difficult nor do you need to have fancy expensive tableware or silverware. Creativity is “key” to a pretty place setting. Have fun! With Sandella you’ll have ONE point of Contact from Concept to Completion for your Convenience!   MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY!   http://www.Sandella.net Be Sure To Stay Connected With Us:

Sandella Custom Homes & Interior News

SANDELLA NEWS   Introducing the Latest and Greatest…   Custom home scheduled to break ground soon in Eagle’s Nest. I’ll be blogging regularly about the construction of this home and posting lots of photos once we get started. This beautiful home will feature an open floor plan with lots of windows to capture the amazing views, a lap pool/spa with a waterfall cascading down to the lower level which houses a sound-proof music room. The lowest point is a basketball court.    Al Sandella, General Contractor for Sandella Custom Homes, has recently been elected to serve on the board for the SunRidge Canyon Architectural Review Committee.   The Construction Trend For 2012… Is REMODEL! It seems just about everyone wants to renovate their house this year. Our top three requests: Kitchen Remodel Bathroom Remodel Entertainment Wall Remodel   The Interior Design Trend for 2012…  I want a “Fresh New Look” for my home. Top on the list: New Furnishings New Window Treatments New Accessories   Homeowners want more natural light and color, They want an “On-Trend” look for their home that’s current but also timeless.  With Sandella you’ll have ONE point of Contact from Concept to Completion for your Convenience!   MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY!   http://www.Sandella.net Be Sure To Stay Connected With Us:

Decorating Tip: How To Hang A Chandelier

DECORATING TIP:  How To Hang A Chandelier Chandeliers add a touch of elegance to a dining room or a little romance above a tub. Here’s how to hang them so they look just right… Step One:  Chose the Correct Style.  If your style is Tuscan choose a chandelier that’s ornate iron or crystal.  If your style is Contemporary choose a style that has less ornamentation, clean lines and sleek finishes. Step Two:  Select the Size / Scale.  If you’re hanging it above a table then the size should be at least half of the table width.  For example, if you have a 60″ round table then the chandelier should be at least 30″ dia.  If the ceilings are high you can select a two-tiered style or a taller fixture.  If you have a large room then go bigger.  The bottom of the fixture should hang approximately 30″ above the table. (don’t go lower than 36′) If you want to hang the chandelier in the center of a room.  Measure the room’s length and width in feet and then add them together.  For example, a 12′ x 16′ room would use a 28″ dia chandelier.  Make sure the fixture doesn’t hang lower than 7 ft from the floor. Step Three:  Illumination.  It’s important to have the correct amount of wattage. So what you’ll need to do is multiply the length and width of the room in feet.  For example, a 12′ x 16′ room equals 192′.  Take 192 and then multiply it by 1.5 = 288.  288 watts is the the total illumination needed for that room.  It’s approximately eight (8) 40 watt bulbs.  I recommend installing a dimmer switch so you can lower the amount of light to create an ambiance.     Step Four:  Buying Bulbs.  Buy clear bulbs to add sparkle, frosted bulbs to add a glow.  Try colored bulbs such as pink for a warm rosy glow. For me chandeliers are a must when I decorate a room…they’re like jewelry for an outfit.  They are so versatile, available in many sizes, styles and finishes.  Add some Glam and Glitz to your room!   With Sandella you’ll have ONE point of Contact from Concept to Completion for your Convenience! MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY! http://www.Sandella.net

SANDELLA NEWS…

SANDELLA NEWS   Introducing the Latest and Greatest…   Custom home scheduled to break ground soon in Eagle’s Nest. I’ll be blogging regularly about the construction of this home and posting lots of photos once we get started. This beautiful home will feature an open floor plan with lots of windows to capture the amazing views, a lap pool/spa with a waterfall cascading down to the lower level which houses a sound-proof music room. The lowest point is a basketball court.    Al Sandella, General Contractor for Sandella Custom Homes, has recently been elected to serve on the board for the SunRidge Canyon Architectural Review Committee.   The Construction Trend For 2012… Is REMODEL! It seems just about everyone wants to renovate their house this year. Our top three requests: Kitchen Remodel Bathroom Remodel Entertainment Wall Remodel   The Interior Design Trend for 2012…  I want a “Fresh New Look” for my home. Top on the list: New Furnishings New Window Treatments New Accessories   Homeowners want more natural light and color, They want an “On-Trend” look for their home that’s current but also timeless.  With Sandella you’ll have ONE point of Contact from Concept to Completion for your Convenience!   MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY!   http://www.Sandella.net Be Sure To Stay Connected With Us:

The Interior of a Custom Home Arizona 85268

The Interior of a Custom Home – Video

This video is part two of The Construction of a Custom Home.  This video showcases the interior of a custom home built by Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors.

This home is over 11,000 sq ft (under roof) and is located on the golf course in FireRock Country Club in Fountain Hills, AZ. It has a gourmet kitchen, formal dining room, living room, great room, media room, two large guest suites, master bedroom suite, home office, 6 bathrooms, wine cellar, 4-car garage and a beautiful outdoor living area with negative edge pool, grotto, fire pit and BBQ.

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors designs and builds homes from concept to completion taking into consideration your style, sq footage and budget!

Call today for a FREE consultation 480.836.1543 or visit us at http://www.sandella.net

Custom Home Building – Remodeling – Interior Design – Architectural Drawings…all in ONE company!

Contact us today!

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HOME BUILDING: THE VALUE OF A CUSTOM HOME

THE VALUE OF A CUSTOM HOME

By Cheryl Sandella, ASID Allied Member, Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

How do you define value in today’s economy in regards to new home construction?  Are you basing the value merely on the lowest price of construction?  In today’s market it is crucial that we don’t discount the value of quality construction by just focusing on the costs. 

At Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors we truly believe that value also has to include the overall building experience and goes hand and hand with the overall budget. 

Our approach is different than many other Arizona design and build firms.  We like to approach the project as a team effort together with the architect, general contractor, interior designer, construction crews and of course the client.  This ensures value because everyone is on the same page from start to finish. 

In many circumstances the client will purchase land from a realtor without ever getting the opinion of a home builder, the expert who will actually build the house on the lot.  After purchasing the lot, many will continue on to hire an architect, again without consulting with a builder.  Many architects will design a house based on the client’s wishes, without a strong focus on the construction documents, which in turn determines the cost of the project.  Clients can get caught up in the “pretty pictures”, which can cause them to lose sight of the budget.  When a builder is involved, he will focus on the construction costs and work with the architect to design a home that is in the client’s budget while satisfying their design wishes.  Therefore, we prefer a client to approach us FIRST before purchasing their building lot or hiring an architect. 

Consequently, we know that many people don’t follow those steps, mainly because they don’t know of them.  With 30+ years in home construction, we have the wisdom to know where the changes should occur to meet the building budget and will confer with the architect to make the necessary revisions. 

Choosing a design and build firm that has experience in the industry and a long term relationship with subcontractors, suppliers and vendors is also important for the budget.  At Sandella we work closely with our crews and have what we call the “meeting of the minds” sessions before we start any new project.  Although working in this manner takes a lot more time, we feel it is well worth it because the client will have a better built home in the long run, which is true value. 

A good design and build firm will have experience, a construction crew and a protocol in place so they are able to execute the project once a contract is signed.  Typically and unfortunately, most building firms do not.   Generally, most price out a job too low and in return have to run around town trying to find the lowest bidder to do the work to fit into that budget.  In the past, they never took the time to build rapport with subcontractors and therefore it makes it difficult for them to execute a job properly. You’ll either get inferior work and materials or will pay extra at the end with change orders.  Their motto is to “move on” and typically will disappear once a project is finished.  We are here for the long run; we’re part of our community and are raising our families here. 

Communication, Integrity and Trust are the three main attributes of a good design and build firm.  We make sure to listen to our clients; we take effective notes on their wants and needs (dreams) for their new home construction, while keeping a keen eye on the design and budget.  We keep our clients informed on every aspect of the design and build process and will have numerous meetings making ourselves available to answer questions or concerns they may have.  Our job sites are executed very efficiently to ensure that schedules and specifications are followed to their exactness and we’re detailed oriented and meticulousness throughout the project.  We’re a company comprised of experts who keep our word and make good on all of our promises.  

It is our job to carry on our shoulders, the responsibility and value of building a client’s dream home.  We take this duty very seriously and are accountable for the execution of fine custom homes that meets our clients’ needs, lifestyle and budget.   

Contact us for a quality custom home designed and built based on value. 

Article by Cheryl Sandella, ASID Interior Designer, Fountain Hills, Arizona

©2011 Cheryl Sandella, All Rights Reserved, Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors, LLC. 

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors, a design and build firm, in Fountain Hills Arizona.  Together they design, remodel and build homes throughout the valley.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”. If you want tools, tips and guidance to design, remodel and custom home building, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net 

Cheryl Sandella

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net

2011 BUILDING AND REMODELING TRENDS (PART ONE)

2011 BUILDING AND REMODELING TRENDS (PART ONE)

Happy New Year!  Last year I wrote an article on the top trends for 2010 and it received a positive response so I’m excited to bring you the top trends for home building and remodeling for 2011.  I’ll be dividing it into two articles so part two will follow shortly.  Since more and more people are choosing to stay in their homes longer, it has caused home remodeling to become the number one trend for 2011 with kitchen and bathroom remodels at the top of the list.  New custom home builds are beginning to peak again, but for 2011 the trend is for smaller, more practical and green homes.  Whether you’ll be building a custom home from scratch or remodeling an existing home keep these new ideas in mind for your 2011 projects: 

 

Smaller Homes:

In 2010 it was rumored that the shift would be to build custom homes on a smaller scale.  For 2011 it is happening, with the square footage shrinking down about 10 – 15%.  The trend has shifted to an awareness level of being value conscious and living realistically.  Even though smaller square footage is being requested, quality materials and finishes are in no way being compromised.  

The footprint is able to shrink down because rooms are requested to be more multi-purpose and multi-functional.  Organized space with integrated storage solutions will create a home to feel more spacious and uncluttered. 

The craving is for warm and clean–line design with a fusion of contemporary and traditional styles. 

The Design

Since the trend is moving towards smaller homes, the floor plan will allow for an open layout to incorporate multi-functional rooms.   Today’s family wants an open and adaptable floor plan that’s comfortable and versatile.  This type of plan allows a room to multifunction, particularly in kitchens / family rooms where cooking, dining, gathering and entertaining can take place. 

 Even though the square footage is shrinking people don’t want to feel closed in.  High ceilings, wider doorways and halls, master bedroom suites and open gathering spaces are still pleasing and make a smaller home feel more open and spacious. 

For existing homes, removing interior walls will create an open and flexible floor plan and improve the flow; therefore, creating versatility for families who love to gather and entertain.  The open floor plan, particularly kitchen and family room, appeals to an enormous segment of the population.  These types of renovations are practical and wise for re-sale.

The Home Office:

Home –based businesses are still growing and with today’s technology, it makes working from home very feasible.  Home offices are in such demand for both those who own home-based businesses as well as those who don’t.  The home office serves as a room to have a working space where the computer and other equipment is kept.      

In remodel projects a spare bedroom, garage bay or a portion of the family room will be renovated to create the ideal space for the office location.   If there isn’t any additional space then an addition is requested to accommodate a home office.  Either way, the trend is to have a room or area that is private, quiet and out of the traffic pattern. 

Green and Efficient:

The present outlook is still green with energy efficiency being top of the list.  You can begin with energy efficient windows, solar panels, tankless water heaters, LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, low VOC paints and stains or take all measures necessary to completely reduce your carbon footprint. 

The changing homeowner is looking for easy maintenance, high quality materials and integral smart systems that can easily transition their home to be greener, healthier and smarter. 

The tax credits have been extended for another year so it only makes sense to take advantage of the savings and update your home using these durable and sustainable materials.

Outdoor Living Spaces:

With the trend of smaller homes comes the idea of larger outdoor living spaces.  Expanding the interior living space to the outdoors is being highly requested for home remodels in 2011.  These outdoor living spaces can be simple or elaborate and should fuse properly with the homes architecture.  Some designs are multi-leveled and contain different seating areas, fire pits, hot tubs and outdoor kitchens with the intention of creating a “resort style” atmosphere. 

The outdoor kitchen tops the list with requests for large BBQ areas with counters to cook and serve on.  Sinks, refrigerators and storage compartments complete the space. 

Whether you’re building a custom home or renovating an existing home keep abreast of these popular trends.  Having this information will help guide you when it comes to complete your wish list.  Our lives change and with that our needs change.  We want our home design to change with us as well.  Make smart decisions to keep your house current if you should ever decide to sell. 

Stay tuned for part 2 which will feature kitchen, bath, floors and more! 

We hope you found this information helpful. Please feel free to comment…we’d love to hear from you!

Contact Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors for a FREE consultation

Call or Click:  480.816.4233 or http://sandella.net/contactus/contactus.html

 

Article by Cheryl Sandella, ASID Interior Designer, Fountain Hills, Arizona

©2011 Cheryl Sandella.  Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors, LLC. 

 

 

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors in Fountain Hills Arizona and design, remodel and build homes in the valley. To read more about her go to www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html  

 

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”. If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design, remodel and custom home building, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net 

Cheryl Sandella

 

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net

AVOID THESE 5 MISTAKES WHEN RENOVATING YOUR HOME

HOMEOWNER AWARENESS…

DON’T MAKE THESE 5 MISTAKES WHEN RENOVATING YOUR HOME

 

1) HIRE AN UNLICENSED CONTRACTOR – many consumer-protection agencies are reporting an increase in home improvement complaints.  The complaints are about contractors who do shoddy work or abandon the job half-way through or better yet never see the contractor again after giving them a huge deposit to start the work. 

Many homeowners make the huge mistake of hiring unlicensed contractors in an attempt to save money.  The truth is that most of the time this mistake ends up costing the homeowner more money in the end.  (plus additional time and aggravation)

Please be aware of the consequences you may be faced with if you hire an unlicensed contractor.  Below is a brief list of risk you take when hiring unlicensed contractors:

Unlicensed contractors are actually a liability for the homeowner and can expose you to considerable financial risks ranging from repairs to rebuilding to medical costs. 

Unlicensed contractors have no legal regulations to abide by or professional standards to follow. 

Unlicensed contractors may not even have the proper skills, knowledge or ethics to do a home renovation project.

Unlicensed contractors can be subject to fines and even arrest and prosecution for performing construction work without a license. 

Did you know that your homeowner’s policy does not cover unlicensed contractors?

A licensed contractor must have the proper training and expertise in the trades they are practicing.  They must follow legal regulations, safety and building codes. 

A licensed contractor must be bonded and insured.

Hiring a licensed contractor can’t always guarantee you’ll get a quality job but it does provide you with some peace of mind that the contractor does have adequate knowledge and expertise in their trade. 

Most states require a contractor to be licensed.  Many agencies will verify a contractor’s background and years of experience to make sure that person is qualified to hold a license.  Many states even require a contractor to pass an extensive written exam.  

Hiring an unlicensed contractor is the homeowner’s responsibility, too.  If homeowners didn’t hire them, they would be forced to either get the necessary license or stop the improper work all together.   

REMEMBER YOU HAVE NO RECOURSE AGAINST AN UNLICENSED CONTRACTOR.

Most homeowners are confused about what work a “handyman” can perform.  In the State of Arizona a homeowner can NOT use a “handyman” if the work requires a local building permit.  According to Arizona’s ROC, the total cost of the project, including labor, materials and all other items does not exceed $1,000.00.

Total cost of the project as an example means, a “handyman” cannot build a brick fireplace for $1,000.00 in a $10,000.00 addition to a home.  The “total” cost of the project would be considered as $11,000.00.  In such cases, the “handyman” would be required to be a licensed contractor.

In addition, homeowners are also confused when it comes to interior designers contracting to do remodel work or acting as a construction manager.  An interior designer must be a licensed contractor to do any type of remodel/construction work.  They cannot bid or enter into a contract with a homeowner for any type of construction work.  Interior designers can be a great asset to your renovation by helping you select materials and products, space plan, add window treatments and new furnishings.  However, they cannot bid or enter into a contract with you for any type of construction work unless they’re licensed in remodeling or a general contractor.

The reason for these licensing requirements is to protect the health, welfare and public safety and to promote quality construction in Arizona.

If you’re planning on doing any type of renovations to your home be sure to hire ONLY licensed contractors.   You wouldn’t hire an unlicensed doctor or lawyer to work for you, so why would you risk your own safety and property value by hiring an unlicensed contractor? 

2) CONTRACT WITH THE WRONG CONTRACTOR – don’t contract your bathroom remodel to the roofing contractor or have your electrician install your tile floors. 

Be sure to hire the appropriate contractor who is qualified and licensed for the specific work you want preformed. 

Many contractors may know how to do multiple trades but only a General Contractor can do that.  (or sub contract to the appropriate trades)

It is wise to hire a General Contractor because they have knowledge and expertise in ALLareas of construction.  They can do the pricing, scheduling and are the liaison between you and the subcontractors. 

Hiring a General Contractor can save you a lot of time and money and also give you peace of mind because your entire project can be handled by one person. 

3) START WITHOUT A PLAN – it is imperative to have a plan when doing any type of improvements to your home.  I’m very surprised at how many people actually start projects and think they can figure it out as they go. 

In order to have a successful home renovation you must follow a plan.  If you start your project without one, you will have one delay after another and you’ll not only waste time but you’ll waste valuable dollars as well. 

Be sure the plan also consists of a time line and budget. 

If your renovation is to update a room or introduce new materials then you’ll need to have a detailed list that encompasses the scope of the work and details. 

If you’re doing larger projects, like a full kitchen remodel, an addition or expanding a room then you’ll need to invest in drawings, construction plans and documents.  For some projects it can be beneficial to hire an architect for complete drawings, elevations and details. 

Planning ahead will not only save you time and money but it will give you peace of mind. 

4) ATTEMPT “DO IT YOURSELF” PROJECTS – Many homeowners attempt DIY home projects in an attempt to save money, but many go wrong.    

Over 25% of these homeowners have to call in a professional to either fix the damaged work or to complete the project.  Many times the professional has to start from scratch because it’s too difficult to salvage the substandard job. 

Most DIY projects take three or four times longer than it would take an experienced professional contractor to do.  Many people don’t have this much time to spend/waste. 

So many homeowners are never really satisfied with their DIY projects. Very often when it comes to resale, no one is willing to pay top dollar for inferior work so they end up losing money in the end. 

5) SPENDING TOO MUCH OR NOT SPENDING ENOUGH – I see this oh so often…many people just filling their home with upgrades that the real estate market isn’t going to support.  And on the other hand I see people trying to put in junk in hopes to make a ton of money on a resale.  It is not wise to do either.

Make sure the upgrades you put into your home renovation project are appropriate to the home’s market value and the standards of the neighborhood.

When renovating use quality products and materials that the area can support so you can recoup the money you spent if you do decide to sell.

Spending money on a good quality kitchen and/or bathroom renovation is wise because you’ll be able to recoup the money you invested and your house will “show” well.

Know that people are very savvy and they can spot substandard craftsmanship or cheap materials and they will not be willing to pay top dollar for that.

Contact Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors for a FREE consultation call or click:  480.836.1543 or http://sandella.net/

 

Article by Cheryl Sandella, ASID Interior Designer, Fountain Hills, Arizona

©2010 Cheryl Sandella.  Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors, LLC. 

 

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member and CEO and Founder of Sandella Custom Home and Interiors.  She is a talented designer dedicated to providing homeowners with a high level of design standards and expertise, while providing guidance and support throughout the home renovation process.  Presenting every homeowner with a precise plan and customized design.

Cheryl is known for her keen eye and ability to pay close attention to design and details while never loosing site of the homeowner’s lifestyle, budget and dream.   She works closely with her husband and partner of over 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor and together they design, remodel and build homes in the valley.

To read more about her go to www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html   and sign up to receive the FREE Guide, “How to Create a Design Notebook” and to discover upcoming promotions, programs and services. 

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella is a sought out Interior Designer who specialized in design, remodel and custom home building.  Cheryl is the CEO and Founder of Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors.  She publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”.  If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design, remodel and custom home building, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net  

Cheryl Sandella

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net