6 Checkpoint List For A Smooth Bathroom Renovation

The idea of a bathroom renovation is a dreamy idea with endless options, and potential. If you are not prepared, it can be a nightmare. So before you take a trip to the local tile store or begin speaking with contractors, know where you stand before being told where to. Below you will find a 6 checkpoint list for a smooth bathroom renovation.

Budget

Don’t wait to be told how much a project would cost. Know what you have to spend, and this includes material as well as labor. This magic number is very important as it will help you in deciding where on the scale your budget falls. Don’t ever take on a project with smoky mirrors in compromising your budget. You may love the idea of having the ultimate bathroom, but will hate it over time if you are financially strapped because of it.

Time

No matter what you are told, whether it is days for a small project to be completed or weeks for a larger one, factor in worse case when it comes to “out of use”. Sometimes there are unforeseen things that happen to cause a delay. If your walls have never been exposed, you do not know what you may find. Hidden problems are expected, water damage as an example can be a hindrance depending on the severity and required repair. Allow more than enough time, and have alternative options ready. This is huge for a residence with only one bathroom, and a family.

Purpose

When the idea of a bathroom renovation calls to action you should know what direction you wish to go, and why. The idea of a “full gut” can be scary, but if you are mentally prepared for what needs to take place to achieve the result, you will not be quick to jump when you hear the old tile hit the floor. We have found that when a customer thinks a renovation through, it is not as overwhelming. There are many factors to consider like the style of tile, fixtures, lighting, pattern, design, color, type of tub, and sink. Are you rearranging the plumbing? When these factors are not taken into account they can add a lot of confusion to the vision of the result. Know what you wish the bathroom renovation to look like. Sometimes going for an upscale look without creating a hole in your wallet can be as easy as pairing different styles. Always consider functionality into the bathroom renovation equation, and whether it will serve everyone’s lifestyle.

Size

When it comes to bathroom renovations, size matters. Whether you are doing a one for one exchange in vanities, to tubs, moving electrical fixtures, know and be sensitive to measurements. In a small bathroom every inch counts, you will be surprised how much room a larger vanity and toilet can consume. Just because it looks great on the shelf, it does not mean it will work the same in your bathroom. Carefully monitor colors as well. Depending on your choice, a darker tone in tile can make a small bathroom appear a lot smaller.

Contractor

A handyman should never be confused with an experienced contractor. Your bathroom renovation can uncover hidden issues that your neighborhood handyman may not know how to address. The bargain can be great in the beginning, and surprise you in paying double in the end. The old saying stands “if you want something done right……”. Reliable contractors are licensed, insured and should be an expert in your area of choice in renovation.

Hardware and fixtures

Sometimes, just a coat of paint, a change in hardware and fixtures can immediately spruce a space. When you are considering a bathroom renovation, opt to start with small changes before you take on the larger one. You would be surprised what high-end fixtures like matching faucets, shower-body, and trim can do. It may buy you some time to save a little more money if the bathroom renovation is paramount.

Financing Options For Your Next Project

Whether you have decided on working with one of the Big Box Retail giants, like Lowes or Home Depot, a local contractor, a close friend who is a jack of all trades or a construction company on your future home renovation project, the undertaking of the decision to move forward with a home renovation may be one half of the battle, but paying for it is another. Regardless of what the condition is of your current project, and the pictures of what it could be, the final cost will sway you into 2 categories of “need vs. want”. For the sake of keeping this post simple, you have chosen to move forward regardless. With that said, you have options when it comes to getting what you want, even if it is your dream kitchen, your fantasy master bathroom, etc.

Do not immediately get discourage or concerned about wanting a home renovation that you feel is over your budget because of the dollar amount on contract. Yes, cash is King, but financing your home improvement project is Queen. A homeowner has options, and all those options should be considered. If you have the luxury of paying for a home renovation out of pocket, that is fantastic. Using your last cent in savings or a good chunk of it may not be. Before you pull that trigger, please consult with your financial advisor on the ramifications. In the meantime let us take a glance at 4 ways to finance your home improvement project. These 4 ways should help you in determining your purchasing power, and you can do this on your own without any assistance. Be your own financial advisor, and uncover the facts that best suits you in whichever direction you deem comfortable.

1.       Title 1 Home Improvement Loans: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, aka HUD provides private lenders with insurance to extend financing for up to $25,000.00 for home improvement for a term of 20 years. There are restrictions to what would be okay to finance, luxury items like a swimming pool or hot tub do not qualify. These loans are not equity driven, but they are credit, and a homeowner must show their ability to pay. Loans on single family homes may be used for alterations, repairs and for site improvements. Loans on multifamily structures may be used only for building alteration and repairs. A homeowner can inquire on their own with any bank, mortgage company, savings and loan association, and credit union, that is approved as a Title 1 Lender. Just walk into your bank as an example, and ask them if they are approved to issue Title 1 Loans.

2.       Contractor Loans: Some construction companies do offer financing options, they are state, and county specific with their own restrictions. The financing partners are lenders, and not the contractor’s own funds. There are several programs available, like a no interest loan for a fixed period or a very low rate for a promotional period, the terms vary, as do the rates. Whether a no interest loan or a competitive promotion term, get the facts on what the rate will be at expiration. Perhaps you are planning on selling the property, and need to lowest payment or no payment while you get your home ready. Regardless of what your plan is be informed, and do not sign anything that is not in fine print.

3.       Personal Loans: A better alternative to using your credit card. The rate will be a lot more competitive than what the credit card issuers will offer you, and they are fixed (not variable). The only drawback is finding an institution that still offers these unsecured loans. They are not equity driven, and the lenders that offer them have a higher standard in credit qualifying in-lieu of the risks. Again, be informed and read the fine print. Take into account the monthly payment, and all your other expenses.

4.       Home Equity Line of Credit: Considered the best option in financing due to the lowest rate available. These loans are offered by most lenders, they are variable and equity driven. In taking out a HELOC you are borrowing against the equity of your home. Most lenders who offer these loans have reduced their Loan to Value limits, so qualifying can be a challenge when it comes to market conditions in your community. These loans are considered the best alternative in comparison to most financing options. When inquiring about these loans, a licensed loan officer at a local branch will be able to tell you if you qualify. Most lenders have automated access to valuation of properties, so even if you are not sure about the value in your area, the lender may have the tools to assist you.

Granite Countertop Alternatives

Granite countertops are a class on its own. Whether you have decided to go with granite in your kitchen or bathroom, there are other alternatives to consider as well. We tend to follow trends, because that is what we hear, and see. Granite has always been very popular, but others may surprise you with a different look, and feel.

Glass Tile: Aside from the obvious appearance, and how this material pairs with natural light, this choice will get you a scratch and fade free surface. Its finish is mildew and mold free, and the colors are endless giving you many options in style, design, and overall look.

Richlite: This 100% eco-friendly paper composite is made of recycled material that is non-toxic. It is heat, stain, and scratch resistance. Richlite also comes in many colors, and the color is throughout. Due to the make of the material, its temperature is warm in-comparison to marble or granite. Richlite is fabricated on the spot, and is very durable.

Quartz: Very durable, man-made, stain, and crack resistance. Quartz comes in a wide range of colors, though expensive, and not heat tolerant.

Soapstone: A natural stone that has quite a bit of quartz in it. Very durable with a smooth matte finish. Requires some maintenance (oiling and buffing), color darkens with age.   

Concrete: Heat resistant, and if properly sealed; very durable. This look is not for everyone. It gives off an industrial appearance, and can be very expensive with person customization.

Lava Stone: A new, but very expensive volcanic stone material. This product is heat resistant, scratch, and stain free. It is extremely durable, and is available in a wide range of colors.

Stainless Steel: This is 100% recyclable, and very durable, impervious to any stains and heat, can be cut to size. Unfortunately, this material is prone to dents and scratches.

Top 5 Air Conditioning Tips

If you live in New York, you are no stranger to its brutal heat wave in the summer. We loathe the painful cold winter months, and wish heavily for warmer days. We often forget how hot our summers can get

until we step outside into nature's oven in the middle of August.

Homeowners will be spending an average of almost 20% of their annual energy bill on cooling this year. Though this may be 20% well spent for comfort, it can increase if you are not sensitive to your air conditioner's regular, and required maintenance. If you want your air conditioner to run accordingly during its peak usage, and without any unexpected repair costs, you will want to keep these 5 tips in mind for optimal results.

1. Clean and replace (when needed) the air condition's filter.

Sounds simple enough, and if you read other blogs on tips and maintenance you will see this as a top priority. Guess what? No one ever does it, or if they do, the percentage is below average. The filter collects dust and allergens as they circulate throughout the home. When your filters are neglected they become clogged, forcing your air conditioner to work double the amount of time to give you the same results you. Golden rule is to have your filters changed every 2 to 3 months. 

2. Annual checkup.

If you are lucky enough to have central air, just the same way you have your heating unit inspected annually (so we hope), the same applies to your air conditioning system. Annual maintenance checks for leaks, worn out coils, filters, freon levels, and any inconsistencies with performance goes a long way. Addressing any potential issues can minimize your unit's failure.

3. Thermostat adjustment.

Consider a programmable thermostat to adjust your settings for set times throughout the day. When used efficiently, this is a huge money saver.

4. Sealing cooling ducts.

Air travels from room to room through your ducts. Proper sealing will improve your unit's performance by as much as 20%. Duct sealant, like mastic or foil tape to seal your seams and duct's connectors will prevent any loss of air.

5. Think Energy Star.

Nothing beats the savings of an Energy Star central air system or individual unit. These units deliver less energy consumption and are a much better value.

Always keep your unit protected in a heavy plastic sheeting when it is time to store it, and before doing any kind of work to the air conditioner, be sure the unit is unplugged. Room air conditioners have one or two capacitors, which can be found behind the control panel and by the fan. Capacitors store electricity, and you can receive a severe shock even when the air conditioner is off.

Choosing The Contractor That Is Right For You

There are many decisions in life that you have to make. Some are easy, and others very hard. Choosing the right contractor for your home improvement needs should be just as important, and will be one of the most crucial decisions you’ll ever have to make depending on the scope of work. If you are planning a few “must dos” around your home, it serves to do your homework on your contractor, and prepare yourself. In the grand scheme of things, your findings, and research will have an impact the tipping scale. It could make a difference in the outcome of your future home improvement project, whether a blissful experience or a shocking train wreck. You hear the stories, they do exist. Here are 5 tips to add to your checklist:

(1). Verify license and insurance: do not be afraid to ask for proof of insurance with general liability coverage for at least 1 – 2 million dollars. Depending on where the subject is located, some management companies mandate as high as 5 million in coverage and should include workers compensation. Why is this important? This insurance covers a range of mishaps from accidents to pure negligence and innocent, but costly oversight. You do not want to have to pay for something you did not cause. 

If you are not working with a licensed contractor, you are walking a tightrope without a net. The Department of Consumer Affairs requires an exam to be taken, finger prints to be kept on record, and registration of contractors in their area of expertise. If DCA does not know who your contractor is, you won’t either when something goes wrong, and your contractor does not return your call after being paid.

(2). Lowest estimate does not always get the charm: if you have gathered countless estimates on your project, at various amounts, the lowest does not equal a score. Be very careful in your decision making. A bathroom renovation is not a shirt, and in this business you really do walk away with what you pay for. If you are considering the lowest estimate, get your questions ready, and find out why the estimate you have is so much lower than the others you have gathered. Compare apples to apples. Trust me, there is never a true bargain. You are paying for the discount somewhere. Buyer beware, as we say.

(3). Research your contractor’s record: we live by internet, and chances are if your contractor has a history of shoddy work, it is has been posted on some community online forum or with the Better Business Bureau. The BBB maintains open and closed files on complaints and will rate your contractor. If your contractor has open, and unresolved matters with the BBB, you may want  to consider moving on to the next candidate. Regardless of the reason, you do not want to have the “shame on you” experience. 

(4). Memberships or affiliations: if your contractor has loyalty to his trade, he will belong to various associations related to his craft. Though this should not be considered a deal breaker. A contractor who participates in trade associations has a vested interest and demonstrates focus in their community as reputable tradesmen. They take what they know, and do seriously, and want to maintain the faith of their customers. If the research on your contractor falls short on everything including their affiliation with any trade unions or associations….run.

(5). Check references: a HUGE must. Depending on the scope of your home improvement needs, whether it is a kitchen, basement, bathroom renovation; just taking a contractor’s word that they can do the job is not enough. Ask for references, and when you get them, consider taking a look at the finished product. Best visual is proof with the naked eye. Be sure to ask about the experience from start to finish: How long did the work take? Was the work completed within the time noted on the contract? How did the customer find the contractor you are thinking of using? Have they used the contractor for other work? 

I would not encourage getting too much into the cost because styles, make, design, material, and overall layout will not be the same as yours. There are many factors that impact the bottom line in any renovation. In the end, you want to walk away feeling that you made the right choice, and your gut will never be wrong. If it feels wrong, it usually is.

5 Biggest Home Renovation Mistakes

So your mind is made up, and you are ready for a home renovation project. You have met several contractors, some referred, others you found, reviewed many estimates, even laughed at a few, and feel you have nailed it. Countless pictures have been shown to you, vision has been sold, and you have enough samples in product selection to open your own home improvement store. Are you as ready as you think? 

True, it took you weeks, maybe even months of researching to help make that final decision, and you feel that the contractor of your choice is going to bring your vision to light. This all may be true, but there are mistakes you do not want to make that tend to get overlooked. If you are looking for your upcoming home renovation to be headache free, these are 5 mistakes to avoid running to the medicine cabinet.

Thinking you have enough money

1.       Some home renovations can be a dollar for dollar experience, and you walk away with what exactly you wanted, and paid for. There are times when you may not be so lucky. One should always be prepared for an unexpected surprise. The bigger the project you are doing, the higher your chances are in unforeseen obstacles that may add to your already paid for renovation. You will be surprised what you encounter when you open walls, things like mold, termites, rotted beams, leaky pipes, are some to name a few. 

Ask your contractor to give you a small list of the unexpected for a home like yours. Not all homes have the same issues, there may even be a common occurrence with all the homes in your community since they were constructed at the same time, and more than likely by the same company. Your contractor may be aware of them if he has done work in your area. Thinking you have enough money may not be enough. Have an  emergency fund ready just in case. Your contractor is definitely not going to pay for it or he may be able to add a 10% contingency to be withheld in the event that something arises. If all goes well, the funds withheld are reimbursed back to you.

When size does not matter to you

2.       You have a small bathroom, and want to take it to the next level by replacing your standard tub with a swanky jacuzzi tub. Yes, they are beautiful. They are also space eaters, like that “must have” vanity at Home Depot that is 2 sizes bigger than your existing one. Yes, it can fit, and so does a golf ball down a P-trap. The size may not matter to you at the time, but it will, it always does.

Trend seeker

3.       Yes, that royal blue square shaped, see-through basin looks amazing on that black granite counter-top. Just because, it was mentioned as the top 5 sellers for 2013 does not mean it will be nominated for an Oscar next year. Fads disappear rather quickly, chasing the latest trend can have a short shelf life. When trend seeking, go with a style that does not have to be re-invented annually. Your contractor will love it, but debt seeking is not a trend.

Taking on too much

4.       Home renovations should never be a burden, always have a specific idea in mind, and do not make it complicated by adding on to it with a knee jerk decision. Give careful thought to a process, and what it means to alter them. Changing your kitchen cabinets is one thing, but then deciding on moving your plumbing, and placement of light fixtures can be an overwhelming experience. Taking on too much can leave you with regrets, and a financial obligation to a decision that could have stayed an easy and less costly one.

Blind eye to your home’s bones

5.       So you live in that wonderful cozy cape in the suburbs. The one that was passed down from your grandparents. Yes, an upgrade may likely be in the future. You do not want to ignore the home’s bones, discounting the outside style of the home and going with a modern Italian retro look in the inside can become a cast for a broken bone that will never heal. That white marble floor in your kitchen with the swanky, eat-in white leather nook may work elsewhere, just not in your home. This can also be a hindrance if you ever need to sell the property. Over the top personal customization only serves the owner, and will be an expensive transition back to normal.

Best Money Saved Is At Home

I don't know about you, but I have been taking a tally recently on the amount of time I spend dining out, and thinking more, and more if I am really getting my monies worth. Is it me or has the quality in food gone down? Perhaps it has been this way, and I have been very forgiving. Forgiving why? Why am I compromising? I guess for a long time, I have been giving a blind eye because I am too busy caught up in the moment. Whether it is the drinking scene, the vibe, being surrounded by people, I find that I have been feeding into a fix at my expense, and it needs improving.

The other day I was at a popular spot, and ordered a cream of chicken that was served in a Crate and Barrel soup bowl. You know the one I am taking about, it is the one that is 3 times larger than the 1/2 cup of soup that is poured into it. It was actually comical, even the waitress gave me a smirk as she served me. We made eye contact as we both stared at the bowl with an outrageous basil leave in the center, there was a knowing without words. I am a big wine drinker, so yes, wine was a must. My $10 dollar glass of red was served in a huge goblet with the obvious cheap fill that I have now started to become observant to. Granted, the place is a chic eatery in the city, but come on.....In the end, who is the joke on?

The experience has not been the first, and I have been taking a genuine effort in being a critic than the customer. Meaning the times I have gone out to eat I have been on guard, watching the picture repeat itself over, and over. I have a thing about complaints at a restaurant. Unless I plan on not eating anything, I usually just settle for what is served or ask to have the platter removed off the bill....if I only touched it a couple of times. I have come to the conclusion that it is time to make time at home. It is sad when you have to make a run for a Big Mac after dinner.

By no means am I boycotting the dining out scene. I love it! There are many great places that serve with a smile, and deliver to perfection. Unfortunately, those places are either too far, and out of the way or just too expensive for a Tuesday night out. For me, I am just tired of wasting hard earned funds on a meal that I am only taking bites from. I might as well just walk into a restaurant and hand over a $20 dollar bill, and just leave. I know for me, the choice to eat out has always been impulsive. I do it, just because. Well, just because does not serve anymore. It is time to be sensible. The kitchen is the heart of the home. If your kitchen is missing a beat, then work to make it tick again. What is keeping you out of your space? Look at what draws you out of your house, and bring it in. Is it a certain style, design, or paint color. This you can fix. It can be as easy as a new dining room set.

I should be ashamed of myself because I have a wine rack of bottles that are just sitting there while I am wasting my money on less than a 1/2 a glass at a swanky wine bar, and I happen to be a good cook when I do. This experience cannot be mine alone, and I am sure that others agree, as well as can relate. So, if you are like me, make an effort to take the time out for a home cooked meal. You wind up enjoying it more, than signing a bill for mediocre. If wine is your thing, and I know I am not alone with this addiction...buy a bottle or open the ones you have in your rack. Do not wait for the company to arrive to open that expensive bottle of wine. Just go for it. Treat yourself to it. If you are like me, you are spending the same amount of money on a few $10 dollar glasses of wine anyway. What is the point in waiting? Pay yourself first!

The more you push yourself for a good dining experience at home, the less time, and money will be spent having a bad one somewhere else. Home improvement begins in the kitchen and starts with you. Give yourself a night out at home. Turn off the lights, and get those candles ready. Sometimes we are paying for an experience that we can replicate in our own homes. Plan a fun night, whether it is pasta night or open a cook book, and be creative. Just because, you cannot cook, it does not mean you do not know how to read. Trust me, you can do it. You may even surprise yourself with a hidden talent, 2nd servings, and with some monthly savings in the end.