When you are contemplating a home renovation there are many questions which go through your head. It can be overwhelming.
- Where do I begin?
- What can be done in this space?
- Can I add a bathroom in “that” space?
- Do I hire a contractor or an architect first?
- How much is this going to cost?
- How long is it going to take?
- Can I live here while the work is being done?
- How can I get more of what I want with a small budget?
The chances are that you will get different answers to these questions from the architect, the designer, the plumber or the builder – if only because their interests are all subtly different to yours. The best way to get answers to these questions is to hire a remodeling coach, or renovation consultant, whose interests are more closely aligned with your own. Acting as a third-party they can offer an unbiased evaluation of the existing conditions of your home, help you develop a game plan for the project with a realistic budget and schedule, and then establish – and enforce – the budget and project timeline.
A renovation consultant will help you determine a realistic budget for your project, prioritize your wants and needs based on that budget, and even help you decide if you should move rather than remodel. At the preliminary meeting with your renovation consultant you will discuss:
- What you want to accomplish with the remodel
- What is your intended budget
- The current condition of your home
- Design ideas
- Realistic timeframes
- What professionals need to be involved and when
After this meeting you should have enough information to decide if you want to proceed and you will know the essentials elements of a remodeling plan. A renovation consultant should be paid on an hourly basis or a fixed price, because if they are compensated on a percentage of the total project cost their interests are not aligned with yours.
