Homeowners have really difficult choices to make during a remodeling project. The number of decisions that need to be made for an average remodeling project is around 10,000 (Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies). That's right. More decisions need to be made before, during and towards the end of a remodeling project than the amount of decisions it takes to plan a wedding (my wife does not believe me - this is not the first time). Whether it be a kitchen, bathroom, basement, deck, porch, or addition project, I am going to try and simplify the hardest choices for you and then the others will just make sense.
1.)Determine the scope of work;do you need to improve a defect, older area, or family dynamic.
2.)Budget and how to pay; equity is down and cash is king (but cash you worked hard for).
3.)Timing; can you live in your home during construction, vacation time, or time work to be done with the right season.
4.)Return on Investment; are you choosing a project that will improve your life or pocketbook.
5.)Choosing the Remodeler; Subs vs In-house crews, good reputation, warranty with longevity.
6.)Materials; Dependability, modern vs traditional, colors, textures, and energy efficiency.
7.)Owner Involvement;Willing to participate to trim costs or is turn key for you?
8.)Frugal is In; Smart people spend money wisely, overpaying is no longer cool.
9.)Process; Your project deserves it and you deserve a great process with predictable results.
10.)Green; Choose your level of green, from small envelope impact to using recycled materials.

If you can wrap your head around the top ten most important issues, you will have a very successful project. At the end you will love your contractor and your life (or at least your house) will be magically transformed (usually happens).

As an industry we are in uncharted waters. We have overcome the challenges of the early 80's and 90's and here we stand ready to reinvent the wheel again. What is the difference you ask? We are in an era of low interest rates (if you qualify), more material options than ever and numerous Eco-friendly, earth conscience options.
While most homes are not getting any younger and with the majority of residences on their 2nd-3rd families, it is always the right time to improve your comfort at home.