Fall is coming faster than you think! If you're remodeling your kitchen this fall, now is the time to begin. Planning a major home improvement project takes time, especially when you're working with a busy, reputable contractor.
There are many steps you can take now to get the process started. Getting an early start will help ensure the work is completed by the end of the year.
1. Make a list of essential features.
Start by asking yourself why you're remodeling and what you hope to accomplish. What are your must-haves? What problems should your remodel solve?
Knowing the what and why behind your kitchen remodel can help you stay on track as you plan your upcoming project. If you're on a tight budget, having a list of must-haves can help keep your costs focused on the most vital aspects of your remodel.
Having a list of goals will also be important when you start vetting contractors. Being able to communicate your ideas and the essential features of your new space can help your contractor create a design that you'll love.
2. Get inspired.
Kitchen remodels can take a long time and can be stressful, too. It's important to get yourself excited early in the process to help you stay motivated throughout the project. Get inspired by researching attractive finishes and styles that can make your kitchen remodel more rewarding.
- Start a Pinterest board. Pinterest is a place where you can gather favorite pictures and ideas for your kitchen remodel. Later, you can share ideas from your Pinterest board with your contractor, interior designer, or other members of your household.
- Explore materials, styles, and colors. Visit showrooms to view countertop materials, light fixtures, and more. Exploring the options in person can help you decide which materials truly fit your style.
- Follow home fashions. Look at home magazines while you're in line at the grocery store or while you're browsing the Internet. Follow home trends and talk to your spouse or household members about the home fashions you like best.
- Keep it timeless. Consider timeless kitchen styles like real stone countertops, custom cabinets, and hand-crafted millwork, and more. These features last a lifetime and can help ensure that your kitchen will be easy to use, easy to maintain, and beautiful - even years or decades from now.
3. Make a budget.
Kitchen remodels are expensive. Make a budget you can afford. If you're paying in cash, this makes budgeting for your kitchen remodel easy. Communicating with contractors about your limits can help you decide whether your budget is realistic for what you hope to accomplish.
You may discover while vetting contractors that you're unable to make all the changes you need for an amount you can afford. If this happens, you may need to change your expectations or your budgeted amount.
If you borrow money to finish the project, know the payment schedule and terms before borrowing. Only borrow from lenders you trust. Shop around to get the best rates and to find the right loan structure for your needs.
4. Vet contractors.
Once you've established a budget, start vetting contractors. The best professionals are booked up three or four months in advance, so if you're remodeling your kitchen this fall, start meeting with contractors now.
- Write a list of questions to ask. Have a list of questions to ask each potential contractor. Asking them the same questions when you're meeting on-site makes it easier to compare one contractor to another.
- Get referrals. If you know a neighbor or relative who has remodeled their kitchen recently, ask them about the experience. Would they recommend that contractor to someone else? Would they hire that company again?
- Meet at least three contractors. Don't hire the first contractor you meet. Meet with several professionals and choose from the best. Don't forget that the lowest-cost bid may not be the best contractor for your needs. Low-cost contractors may be cutting corners, hurrying through projects, or skipping steps. Low-cost contractors also hire inexperienced workers that can do more harm than good.
- Check references and the license. Check three references before hiring a contractor for your project. Contractors in Connecticut are required to have a state license. Check the license on the state of Connecticut's license lookup website.
5. Create the design.
If you've hired a design-build contractor, they can help you create the design for your kitchen. Once the kitchen design is created, you'll sign a contract, and the contractor will put you on the schedule.
6. Sign the contract.
Read the contract thoroughly before signing it. Never sign a contract that you don't understand or agree with. If you have questions, ask your contractor. Never hire a contractor for a kitchen remodel without signing a contract. If your contractor says that your remodel doesn't need a contract, consider hiring someone else.
Don't Wait to Start Your Fall Projects
Good contractors have busy schedules. It may be several months between your first consultation with a contractor and the day they start work on your remodel. If you're planning to remodel your kitchen this fall, start vetting professionals right now!
Litchfield Builders has created a free guide to hiring a Connecticut contractor. Download our guide to learn more about finding the best professional for your project. To discuss your home improvement project with an experienced home renovation contractor, call us today to schedule an in-home consultation.
