What a remodeling project should cost is a great question. "Hell If I Know" is usually the answer. Remodeling is not a commodity especially in older homes that I typically work on. For me, I take this responsibility seriously and need to do a few things first. Before...
Flipping a house means that someone bought the house with the intention of adding value to resell for a profit. Sadly, this practice has been abused, it used to be a noble profession. Heck I did it all over my neighborhood for years before I became a business. Sadly,...
We look at our skills and expertise to determine if we are a good fit for our prospects. Sure, we do all sorts of different projects, but I was recently asked what we are best at. I like to put a modern twist on the old saying "Cheap-Fast-Great, pick 2." Quality,...
A friend and potential client used another contractor because we were more expensive than she could afford at the time. We designed her project, and then parted as friends. Now that the project is nearing the finish, here is what her experience was. The regrets keep...
While researching an article on how long things should last, it dawned on me that remodeling and building science as well as the industry as a whole has really evolved in my lifetime. I am regularly asking my prospects "how long they expect your remodeling project to...
As a sustainability nut in the remodeling world, I often learn lessons the hard way. This recent example reminded me again that as counter intuitive as it seems replacing old parts is the best practice when the budget is tight. I am often asked to reuse existing parts...
Whole House RemodelThe Challenge The property was occupied during design and the new owners were very occupied with their school aged children. Lots of deferred maintenance items had to be addressed. The Idea The home was purchased in advance of moving in with the...
Garage renovationThe Challenge The sagging roof caused be removed bracing over the years made it look like a sway-back horse. A chiropractic adjustment and some serious support were needed. Keeping with the historic look and feel of the garage was important. There...
Garage workshop remodel The Challenge One of the bays was already used for this shop and the other two for cars. The look of the structure was to harmonize with the home. The plans were drawn by others and were not correct. Stucco work was a nightmare done a backup...
Aged home interior makeoverThe Challenge This home was built in 1955 it had good bones. The kitchen had been remodeled by a previous owner and half of the garage had been converted into a den/laundry room. The clients wanted to open up the kitchen, add another...