Homeowners who do their homework and understand the details of a remodeling project are generally happier with the outcome. “When clients come to our showroom, we make sure to educate them,” says Richard Plummer, owner of Ric’s Kitchen and Bath Showroom in Castro Valley. There are so many options and types of material to choose from, learning the pros and cons of each is important to making an informed decision. Different materials have varying warranties, maintenance methods and costs, and it pays to learn what to expect.
You can build a checklist from the following questions:
• What has the contractor worked on lately?
• What’s a practical budget for the quality of appliances and materials expected?
• What are the long-term maintenance costs and methods for the flooring you choose?
• Do you want to find the most eco-friendly products and materials?
• Will you need design services from a contractor?
• What are the sources and suppliers of the materials you’ll need?
Look for a contractor that’s willing to build a trusting relationship. In an industry known for ’major investment horror stories, says Ric, it pays to build a history with someone you can turn to for additional work or repairs when something fails. It’s a very competitive industry, and businesses that establish strong local ties are usually the ones that survive.
