I am following a thread on my contractors’ LinkedIn site about how much markup folks are charging around the country for remodeling projects. From the thread sparked this thought: As a professional remodeler I understand what it costs to run my business and I charge...
Yes, I've got those big box bluuuuuues. How many of you can say the same thing? I even saw a TV commercial for something recently that was mocking them hard. What every town needs is an old fashioned hardware type store where the employees know what (H. E. Double...
I recently attended a gala dinner fundraiser for Second Chance, a shop that sells used building materials in Boise, Idaho. It was a fundraiser to support alcohol and drug rehabilitation. They provide safe housing and have no religious affiliation. During the meal,...
Big Bucks is no joke. We are constantly trying to get our clients to focus on not changing the scope of work while we are in the Design Developmental stage of remodeling. The next challenge is to deal with our own creative nature when it comes to finding opportunities...
Change Orders are a form used to note things that have "changed" from the original DOW (Description of work). They may be designated for additional funds, negative funds, or neutral. The most important part is that they confirm and document that something was changed...
Each of us homeowners most likely has a code upgrade clause in our homeowners insurance policy. If not, get that insurance rider! It is worth every cent. The purpose is to have the home brought up to the current code if a disaster strikes (loss occurs) and rebuilding...
Redefining a Ranch-Style Home: Levco’s Second Story BreakthroughThe Challenge Our client, who is an Architect, wanted to add square footage to her home. Her lot was constrained and could not go sideways or down.The Idea To use bonus room trusses to create a second...
North End Historic Basement & Master Suite AdditionThe Challenge The Owners had a new son and no Master Suite. They already had a basement but the home was just too small.The Idea The home built in 1943 it was in the North End Historic District and contributing....
Basement wet bar from a storage areaThe Challenge Our client had a walkout basement room that was used for relaxing and entertainment. There was a TV and a couch plus a pool table. They used a vintage cabinet to hold liquor, but the idea of a wet bar in the room was...
Basement Finished in StyleThe Challenge The basement of this home had a chronic water problem. A previous contractor had done a wimpy repair and another contractor was planning to dig a trench around the room to add a pump system to allow water that came in to be...
