Budget. Your most critical consideration should be budget. Don't be afraid to tell a contractor how much money you want to spend. "Sharing that information is important so that we can price a project accordingly," says Smith, voted the 2010 Remodeler of the Year by the Home Builders Association of Maryland. "A responsible contractor doesn't want to persuade you to spend more than you can afford."
Cost vs. Value. Hand in hand with what you can afford is the cost-versus-value factor, says Smith. "A good remodel is not just about what you desire, but what makes sense," he says, adding that your contractor should also serve as a "voice of reason." Will you get your money back on, say, a $10,000 investment? If you plan to stay in your house for 10 to 15 years, maybe. But if you’re planning to move in three or four years, something like re-siding your house may not make sense, especially when a simple paint job could give you the same effect.
Livability. If you hope to live in your home well into your later years, incorporate features that will help you "age in place" gracefully and comfortably. That can mean anything from adding curbless showers and grab bars in the bath to new lighting throughout the home to help you move around safely. With the greying of the American population, adding such features during a remodel can help with resale value, too, says Smith.
Bang for Your Buck. What parts of a remodel offer the best return on investment? Without a doubt, kitchens and baths, says Smith. Outdoor-living spaces—including screened porches and decks—are also safe bets, as is home technology such as remote locks and HVAC controls.
Going Green. You'll save money in the long run, as well as reduce your carbon footprint, by incorporating environmentally friendly features like low-flow toilets, foam insulation, and light-colored roofs. "You can go green without going 'crazy green,'" says Smith. "There are a lot of options out there."
Best Time to Remodel. Unless the weather is completely uncooperative for long stretches, you can pretty much plan on doing a remodel any time of year. For example, homeowners may start thinking about screened porches in the spring, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done earlier. And unless a roof is being torn off—in which case, the middle of December might not be the best choice—the job’s time of year isn’t that important. “We have tents and heaters and guys willing to work all year round,” says Smith.
Do Your Homework. When it comes to choosing a contractor, check that they have a Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license; that the workers have undergone background checks and are covered by workman's comp; that you talk to past clients; and that you have a good rapport with the contractor and crew. "Just because a company is good doesn't mean it is good to work with," says Smith. "Remember, you're going to be waking up with these guys!"
Contact Owings Home Services, a member of the Home Builders Association of Maryland, at 410-549-3800 or www.owingshomeservices.com.
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