Tag: Bathroom Remodeling - page 5

Tips On Hiring A Reputable Home Improvement Specialist

Posted on May 23, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

Home improvement projects come with some difficulties; the most common stemming from hiring an experienced, dependable contractor to execute the project. Whether you are knowing out a wall to increase the size of the kitchen or something simpler like tiling the bathroom floor it is crucial the contractor will perform at the highest performance level possible. Below are several tips to help homeowners find a reliable and steadfast home improvement specialist.

Ask friends, family and co-workers for references on work previous contractors have performed: If you know anyone that has had work done around their homes check with them to see if they would recommend the contractor that they employed. When looking for qualified individuals to work with no one is a better reference than those within your own tight knit community of friends, family and co-workers.

Narrow the selection down to three contractors before asking them to estimate your home improvement project: Interview contractors before getting bids or estimates from them. Do not allow the final selection come down to the estimate or bid amount. Find at least three contractors that offer exactly what you are looking for in a home improvement specialist. Seek estimates from all three contractors and work to negotiate the best overall value for your project.

Review the licenses, complaints and litigation history on contractors that you are interested in working with: Never waste time on a contractor without the proper licensing, bonding and insurance. Homeowners insurance does not cover many problems that can arise when hiring work to be done around the home. With the proper licenses, bonds and insurance in place a contractor is showing that they are serious in protecting project owners, their business and subcontractors from any and all losses that should arise.

Have an idea of what you want before seeking out estimates from contractors: It is important to be able to express exactly what you want in order to get to the end result you desire. Contractors cannot read minds. It is crucial to have a plan with definite ideas on what you are looking for. Do not speak to a contractor until you have a set plan. Once an idea is in place and you have a sense of what you want start seeking estimates from contractors. This is the only way that you will get a reliable estimate on labor and materials for your project from the contractors you are seeking to work with.

In our next blog installment we will continue providing tips to aid homeowners in the search to find a contractor to employee that will perform home improvement projects within your home.

Aspen Construction is an innovative building leader specializing in home additions, new construction, bathroom and kitchen remodeling. For all of your home improvement needs including electrical services contact us today at http://www.aspencoinc.com/.

Aspen Construction

Bathroom Remodeling, Buying New Construction, Custom Homes, home additions, kitchen remodeling, licensed contractor, New Construction, New Custom Home Construction, New Home Construction, Room Additions

Renovations Verse New Construction

Posted on April 28, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated May 5, 2016

An old age question that contractors are often asked; should we move forward with renovations on an existing home or opt for new construction? There are factors on both sides of the discussion that need to be evaluated when deciding what is right for you and your family. When considering between renovations and new construction take a look at the following five things.

Evaluate the costs associated with renovating verse the expense involved in new construction. Are the renovations that are needed structural? Structural renovations are often expensive and time consuming. It will most often be more cost effective to start from scratch over renovating when a lot of structural changes are needed. A new construction single story home runs around two hundred thousand dollars and two story homes around two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

Renovations, especially those involving the structure of the home can add up due to unforeseen problems that arise along the way. This doesn’t give you complete control over the budget whereas with a new home you can get a fixed price contract.

Consider the age of your existing home. You may have purchased this specific home because of the houses character, the charm of the existing neighborhood and other aspects that are irreplaceable. If you fell in love with the old wooden floors and the existing ornamental ceilings then remodeling is obviously the only way to go. Period features in older homes cannot be replicated in new construction.

Where is the home located? Is the property one of the reasons that you initially purchased the home? Are there landscape options mature and unable to be replicated in another location? Vacant land to build on is often scarce.

Look at the homes existing floor plan; does it match your family’s lifestyle? If the homes floor plan is unworkable then it makes more sense to start from scratch over. It may be cheaper to begin with a clean slate over completely renovating the homes existing floor plan into something that can work for your family and lifestyle.

Renovations are often more difficult to budget for. New home construction allow for a few years of lower expenses because everything is new. It is easier to maintain a new home and more energy efficient appliance, windows and more have been used to create your home. Also, new construction comes along with a warranty. Renovations are an expense that is comes along with the homes current maintenance expenses. So while you may budget your finances to achieve a new addition to the existing home it doesn’t mean that the water heater on the home or the roof won’t suddenly need to be replaced.

Aspen Construction

Home Improvements That Pay Off

Posted on April 28, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated May 5, 2016

Certain home improvements yield a higher value than others. The first thing that comes to mind when going for renovations that increase the equity seems to always be kitchen remodels. More important than a new kitchen is those basic home maintenance items such as a new roof, updated siding, fresh paint, basically any renovation that keeps maintenance low and appeal high.

Sometimes home improvements are needed instead of wanted. As a handyman I have installed many new furnaces when homeowners dreamed of countertops of granite and showers that steam. Often times as a contractor I need to remind homeowners that reliable furnaces and dry basements are far more important than updated kitchens and luxury bathrooms.

As a handyman I talk to a ton of real estate agents, architects and other contractors. We all agree that buyers can’t get past a roof that leaks however can get over a kitchen that would seat more people with the addition of an island. Homeowners are more likely to recoup their investment with the addition of new siding. Replacing the siding recoups around ninety three percent of its cost, replacing the roof and windows return about eighty percent or more.

Home buyers often take basic home systems for granted. When an offer is put in on a home it is expected that when the inspector checks the home out that the roof will not leak, the plumbing works, and heating and air conditioning systems are in order. Basic home maintenance items will eat up a new homeowner’s budget quickly; in reality however they desire to use their financial resources to update the aesthetics of the home. Maintenance items within the home can quickly eat away at a homeowners updating budget quicker than quick.

If 2016 is the year that you are thinking of finally get to the home improvements you have been putting off here are a few things to keep in mind.

What are you going to get back on your investment? How does the value of your home relate to others within the area? If you live in a neighborhood where your home is already going for top dollar it is going to be difficult to get money back on any of your home renovations. Installing a ten thousand dollar garage addition to create a three car garage where two car garages are the norm may not be the best investment for your renovating dollars.
If homes in the area have only one bathroom it may not make sense to increase the number of bathrooms in your home. A bathroom renovation can cost anywhere between nine and twelve thousand dollars. Adding another bathroom to a neighborhood where one bath is the norm may not yield that expense in increased home equity.

It is important to understand that not all renovations are created equally. Handymen that tell you anything other than that are lying. Yes, you may want an in-ground pool but be sure that you know you may not get your money back out of the investment; be sure it is worth it for you. If the value you will receive from the renovation is greater than the amount you will be able to recoup go for it!

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications. Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

age in place modifications, Basement Transformations, Bathroom Remodeling, handicap ramp installation, Handyman Services, Hardwood Floor Installation, Hardwood Refinishing, kitchen remodeling, Remodeling Contractor, Renovation Services, Wheelchair Ramp Installation

Tips On Purchasing New Construction

Posted on April 26, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

The main piece of advice anyone can give homeowners looking into new construction is to be sure everything from even the smallest changes is in writing. When you preview the model make sure you note all of the things that you like within the home. The model isn’t ever the base model; the model always includes upgrades that are not included in the base price of the home. Builders can customize the models available to meet your needs and wants. This is one of the great reasons to purchase a new construction home. It is however not without costs and additional time to complete the overall job.

A realtor is needed even when purchasing a new construction home. Strong realtors will guarantee to guarantee that you are covering the entire base. Realtors that specialize in new construction homes are familiar with working with builders and contractors. They understand the intricacies of negotiating add-ons and ensure that the buyer gets all changes in writing. A completion date on the initial contract becomes null and void when changes are continually made. It is impractical to add on customizations without adding time to the completion date. When the contract changes make sure that the contract gives you a new completion date.

A new home also needs a final home inspection as does a used home. Everyone makes mistakes. It is important to be sure that that a professional new home construction inspector does a final inspection on the home before you close on your new home. Inspectors find things that were not done or done incorrectly that could eventually cause bigger problems down the road for you as new home owners. An inspector is hired to do a final review over the work that has been completed. It is the largest single financial purchase you will make so be sure to have it inspected with a fine tooth comb before you sign on the dotted line making it officially yours.

Newly constructed homes often come with a new home warranty. Typically a third party will offer a home warranties for new home builders. Each builder will determine what they will cover in a warranty verse what they won’t. Negotiate a warranty in to your deal with the builder to ensure that your new construction home is covered in all ways possible.

New construction is a perfect way to ensure you are getting the home of your dreams down to the most minor details. Look to friends and family when considering a realtor and builder to assist in bringing the new construction home of your dreams into reality.

Aspen Construction

Spring Home Improvements

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

It is official; winter has ended and spring is here. Homeowners often find the spring a perfect time to begin the home improvements they have planned over the previous months. Below you will find the top spring home improvement projects to add to the resale value of your home.

Repair Roofing and Update Gutters: The structure of your home only functions properly when it is cared for. Roofing repairs should be done twice a year. Shingles replaced, flashing caulked and gutters put back in place. When the gutters around our home are not correctly placed the rain water can leak into the cement foundation and erode the soil surrounding the foundation causing major issues. Your homes main structure comes from the foundation and trusses. Proper care of these main components revolves around professional roof and gutter maintenance.
Put A Deck On: Homeowners looking to socialize, dine and enjoy the sunshine should consider adding on a deck. A deck can come in any size. Consider building a deck with pre-treated wood to ensure that it survives the harsh weather winter will bring.
Update Your Home’s Exterior: Inspect the exterior of your home. Does your current exterior look like it has barely survived the winter? Spring is the perfect time to update the siding on your home. Vinyl siding comes in a wide variety of good looking, energy efficient, high performance varieties. Look into exterior options that best meet the need of your homes climate.
Heat and Air Conditioning Inspections: Homeowners should have their heating and cooling systems inspected yearly. Before it gets hot it is crucial to make sure the air conditioning system is running properly and that vents are properly clean. If possible install a dehumidifier that runs along with the air conditioning system. This will prevent mold build up from occurring within the walls of your home.
Roof Repair: Heavy snow fall in the North is tough on a home’s single roofing. To ensure that damage to your roof is kept to a minimum inspect the roof for any moisture seepage. Check in the cracks, creases, loose roofing tiles and such on the roof. Any curling, peeling or shingle disintegration should be repaired to avoid considerable structural damage to the roofing.
Kitchen Upgrades: The number one home improvements that consumers should take to increase the value of their homes come from the kitchen. You don’t have to do a full kitchen makeover to increase the value of your home; consider new cabinets, updated hardware and add an island. This will help make the kitchen the gathering place you have always wanted.
Increase Curb Appeal: The first thing that people see is the exterior of your home. The outside should accurately represent the inside in order to attract the attention of future buyers. This can be done by updating the landscaping, adding an entry gate, updated roofing, adding on a patio and more. When you enjoy the outside of your home as much as the inside you have succeeded!

Home improvements that increase the value of your home are always the first to consider. Whenever you can improve the environment for your enjoyment in a way that will also add to the equity of the home it is a win-win.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Purchasing A New Construction Home

Posted on March 28, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

Building a home from the ground up can be very exciting. New construction allows you to make every choice and decision that involves your new home from flooring materials to the backsplash tiles. It can be slightly overwhelming so it is important not to get too caught up in the little decisions and that you focus on what is really important in the new home construction process.

In new construction it is important to make sure that the home is inspected every step of the way. You as the home owner will want to follow up with the builder on how any issues with the inspection process will be remedied. When looking to buy a new construction home to avoid issues with your new home down the road.

Research buying new construction how you would research any major purchase. Ensure that the developer and builder are in good standing with the state and local builder’s guilds. You do not want to work with a contractor or developers that have pending complaints or judgments. Ask about independent subcontractors they hire to work on your home. Take time to verify all licenses and construction bonds as well. Know the amount of insurance they carry along with the amount they are bonded for.

It is important to hire a real estate agent when building a new home. Don’t assume that the in house sales agent will assist you and guide you through the process. Those sales agents work on behalf of the seller of the new construction homes. They represent the developer’s best interests not the home buyer. This is where is pays to have a real estate agent working on your behalf.

Check the fine print throughout purchase contracts as they differ greatly from states to state. Real estate documentation differs. Have a real estate attorney review any and all documentation before you sign it. A builder’s contract usually represents the builder and contractor, not the buyer. You will want to make sure that addendums can be added to keep you protected during the phases of building and purchasing your new construction home. Have an understanding of what is covered under the builder’s warranties and what is not.

Don’t assume anything is included. Many model homes within new construction homes are built with all the bells and whistles. Avoid making the mistakes that many people viewing the model do. Assume that the cost of the home includes nothing. Ask for a detailed list of what the model home includes that is not included in the price of the basic new construction home you are purchasing. Model units often include high end lighting features, upgraded trim, architectural detailing and upgraded appliances. These all make the unit more attractive to buyers. Even the height of the doors and ceiling should be in writing as the model often has these enhanced features.

A home inspection is recommended even when purchasing a new construction home. Mistakes can be made by contractors and it is important to ensure the home is in proper order before it is yours. Not all new construction homes offer warranties or guarantees on the work that is done. Inspections should be done throughout the home by an independent inspector to ensure the home is up to code throughout.

Before you close on your newly constructed home you should walk through the space with the builder. During this time you can point out defects in the home that were established in the contract and that need to be repaired before the closing. Never close on a newly constructed home without this final walk through. Once you have closed and signed the official documentation the home is officially yours and the builder is off the hook for any and all fixes that were included in the original contract.

Aspen Construction

Bathroom Remodeling, Custom Homes, home additions, kitchen remodeling, licensed contractor, New Construction, New Custom Home Construction, New Home Construction, Room Additions

Considerations With New Construction

Posted on March 28, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

Building a home from the ground up is a dream that many homeowners have. With new construction homeowners can design the perfect home to include all of the special features, colors, materials and such that they have always wanted. As fantastic as all of it sounds the truth is that building a new home come with its own special set of difficulties. Before you decide to build a new home or to start searching local real estate for an existing home consider the points within this article. New construction is a process that occurs over time; it is important to know what you are getting yourself into before signing on the dotted line.

With new construction, homeowners must be involved in the design process. For some this is a win-win situation while others may find this a time consuming daunting task. Consider the time commitment that you have to give to building a new home. Will you have time to look into cabinets, flooring, fixtures, paint and more? New construction offers the opportunity to customize each and every detail. Is this something you are ready to commit to?

With a new construction home you will be the first person to live in the space. This is considered a benefit for many. However it is important to consider that you will also be the first person to discover and repair issues within the home. In order to safe guard yourself against any installation and construction issues have the home inspected by a licensed home contractor before signing off on the new construction. The same is true of buying an existing home. It is crucial that you are aware of any issues that may arise and able to address the repairs before the home is officially yours.

Another consideration is the amount of time it takes to build a custom home. Depending on the location and climate the process can take anywhere between three to six months from start to finish. Do you have that kind of time to wait? Consider the amount of time it will take to sell your current home. Are you moving to a completely new area? Will you be able to find something to rent if the home is not completed on time? Where will you store your belongings until your new home is finished?

When you purchase an existing home you already know that cost of the home. With new construction the cost is ever changing. Each custom feature comes at a price. Part of the new construction process is negotiating all of the extras as you proceed through the project. You will need to stay on top of the additional material and labor fees throughout the process to ensure that you are staying within a set budget. It is important that you get what you pay for. The responsibility of making sure this occurs falls on your shoulders.

After you have considered the myriad of possibilities involved in new construction do you feel comfortable tackling the challenges of new construction? Many people believe the extra effort involved throughout the process of building a custom home is all worth it in the end. At the end of the day they have constructed an environment that is customized to their exact wants and needs.

Aspen Construction

Bathroom Remodeling, Custom Homes, home additions, kitchen remodeling, licensed contractor, New Construction, New Custom Home Construction, New Home Construction, Room Additions

Doing It Yourself Verse Hiring A Professional Contractor

Posted on February 20, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

Doing a bathroom remodel yourself may save you money but at what additional cost? The cost of course is skill, convenience and every bit of your sanity. Extensive bathroom remodels should be left up to an experienced contractor. Hire a remodeling contractor that has experience doing the job right the first time. A licensed, insured contractor has acquired the skills necessary to ensure the job meets your specifications within an allotted period of time that is contracted between the two of you.

When hiring a contractor it is important that they understand what you are envisioning. Homeowners come up with a gazillion ideas on remodeling their homes; the problem comes when trying to articulate what you expect out of the completed project. When you can show your contractor pictures out of magazines or ideas found online it opens the lines of communication.

Your contractor should be able to take ideas from your design concepts to create a visual representation of exactly what you are looking for. This should be the first step in any home improvement project. Going into remodeling without a definitive concept in mind is never a good idea for you or the contractor.

When ideas are not set in stone before the job begins a project that should take a few weeks’ turns into a few months. The fixtures start to change, the color of paint no longer goes well with the tile and cabinet colors and before you know it aspects of the project that were not in the original contract which starts the demise of any time line that was established to begin with.

As new items start to be requested contractors have to halt where they are at in the project to reevaluate and order the homeowners new requests. When this occurs too often throughout the remodeling process it can really turn into a project that is outside the realm of time the contractor has established for your renovation. This in turn increases the amount of money the contractor deserves to be compensated, increases in material costs and restocking fees and more.

Professional home remodeling contractor that have established a solid reputation and work history within the industry make for an ease that doesn’t come from contractors who are new to the construction industry. The best way to find an individual to contract for the home improvement projects around your home is via referral, word of mouth and online reputation. It is hard for good contractors and their work to go unnoticed in the home remodeling industry.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

2016 Is The Year Of Bathroom Renovations

Posted on January 28, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

We are almost a month in the New Year and the thoughts of remodeling are still fresh in the air. The New Year is a perfect time to begin making soft plans for complete room renovations or small updates to different spaces within your home.

Contractors are already booking up their spring and summer with major kitchen renovations, porch additions, additions and more. If you are considering a renovation now is the time to meet with local contractors to establish an action plan. Now is the time to schedule your remodel to ensure that the contractor that you desire has time booked in to his schedule for your renovation project.

Consider the following trends of 2016

Bathrooms are the big rage of 2016 following the massive trend of kitchen remodeling that 2015 was witness to. Bathroom renovations will be the top remodeling project for home owners this year. Homeowners are looking to create a spa getaway in their own homes. Large soaking and free standing tubs are what is currently trending.

In bathroom spaces, shower surrounds will start to see a decline and a move to large custom showers moves in. Showers and tubs will be separate features within the bathroom space. Showers will be extravagant within themselves. The use of natural materials, larger showers and multiple fixtures will be the trend over the classic minimal cubical style stand up showers of the past.

The colors used within the bathroom space will be muted. Gray is a continued favorite in 2016 along with the inclusion of darker hues mixed in. Shades of charcoal mixed with whites and blacks offer a classic, sophisticated look to any space. Bathrooms tiles are popular in white paired with a gray color pallet with darker accents to create an elegant spa retreat. Hues of green, beige, blue and gray are nice to give your bathroom a beach like feel.

The bathroom sink trend of 2016 is moving away from the on counter giant bowl sinks and moving towards deep single sinks. Incorporating a large vanity with lots of storage is a key element in making large, deep sinks look like an attractive accent within the bathroom space.

When choosing faucets heavy metals are still popular, copper is trendy as is muted black. Replace gold and polished silver with darker faucets. The darker trend is not only saved for the faucets within the bathroom. Lighting options throughout the bathroom should include these darker, heavy metal shades to compliment other fixtures throughout the space.

Accent walls are also common in the bathroom of 2016. Consider using natural elements to bring character to the space. Accent walls of the past have always been set apart by using a bold color pallet; this is not so with bathroom renovations of today. Natural, reclaimed materials that add drama, warmth and character.

Statement flooring in the bathroom is not a trend that is letting up. The floor is a great pallet that provides an ample area to create something unique. This is extremely popular with spaces that have no clear wall space that offers an accent feature. Bringing interest to the bathroom can be difficult is such situations which is when the bathroom flooring becomes extremely important. Statement tiles and engineered hardwood remain popular trends in bathroom flooring.

With February fast approaching now is the perfect time to make an appointment to meet with residential contractors to discuss plan to revamp your homes bathrooms.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Barrier Free Bathroom Contractor, Barrier Free Shower, bath remodel, Bathroom Remodeling, bathroom renovations

Top Remodeling Projects of 2016

Posted on December 28, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

Why do people choose to remodel? When you are looking into home improvements for your home do you do so based solely on your own desires or do you renovate because of popular trends that hit the market? For those of you that improve your home based on trends that are popular this article is written directly for you. In 2016 these are sure to be the most popular trends in the home improvement industry.

Replacing the entry door of your home: The curb appeal of your home is of utmost importance when it comes to home improvement projects. One of the most lucrative projects that homeowners can undergo is replacing the homes entry door. This is in fact one of the most valuable renovations that homeowners do as it recovers the value of the project over one hundred percent.

The average expense of an entry door replacement is anywhere between four to eight hundred and fifty dollars. The total cost and added value does not necessarily increase the equity of the value a great deal, like full kitchen and bathroom remodels, however the return on investment of an entry door replacement is one that cannot be outdone by any other home improvement project.

Remodeling the homes bathrooms: Unlike an entry door replacement which is relatively inexpensive a bathroom renovation costs a good chunk of money and time to execute. Remodeling a bathroom continues to remain the most popular option in home remodeling throughout the United States. It is the one area in the home that is used by everyone that enters your home and therefore needs to be comfortable and welcoming.

For homeowners it is the room that is entered the most. It is one of the two most popular rooms within the home and really helps to sell your home. If your home is identical within a subdivision it has been proven the home with the updated bathroom or kitchen will sell faster and for more money than an equivalent home for sale in which the living room or bedrooms have been updated. The improvements within a bathroom will increase the asking price you can seek for your home upwards of sixty percent of the overall cost of the bathroom remodel including materials and labor.

Garage Door Additions or Remodels: When looking for projects that offer a high return on investment consider the replacement of your homes garage door. The total overall value s not much but you are almost guaranteed to recoup the expense of the renovation. If you replace your garage door for around one thousand dollars you can expect the sale price of your home to increase by at least the same amount.

Trendy home improvement projects aren’t always the most popular options when it comes to renovations. Many times homeowners are interested in projects to increase the value of their home in terms of their overall use and enjoyment of the space. No matter your reason for updating and improving your home be sure to keep trends and renovations in mind that will be popular to the masses. It is more difficult to sell a home that has been overly customized verse one that has a number of neutral improvements.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor