Dreams
to Reality
LAYING
THE GROUNDWORK FOR YOUR REMODEL
Remodeling your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
Not only can you keep your home up-to-date as your lifestyle and family
needs change, but a remodel can also be a great way to increase the
value of your single largest asset. Before the work begins, however,
you need to think your project through from start to finish.
PROPER
PLANNING ISTHE KEY TO SUCCESS
Every remodel starts as a thought or idea. But to keep your dream
from turning into a nightmare, you need to clearly define the scope
of the work you want to accomplish. Look over your project carefully.
What improvements would you like to make? Are repairs needed? Are
you planning a whole-house renovation, a new kitchen or an updated
bath? How about a new master suite or sunroom? And don’t forget
to consider future needs in your plans. Careful planning will allow
you to update your home, customize your living space to meet your
needs and in crease the value of your investment. When it comes to
resale value or return on investment, keep in mind that not all remodeling
projects are created equal. The general rule of thumb is that any
remodeling project that brings your home up to the level of your neighbors’
is worth the investment. It does not pay to be the most expensive
house on the block.
CHOOSE
A COURSE OF ACTION
Once a basic plan is in place, you need to determine which construction
alternative is the best approach for achieving your objective. Depending
on your needs and the size and complexity of your remodeling project,
there are several different options for you to consider before choosing
a course of action. Most remodeling projects are best handled by an
experienced professional. Sean Kelly Construction has a referral base
of experienced architects, engineers, interior decorators and designers
to help. They have the skill and knowledge that comes from years of
practical experience.
PAY ATTENTION
TO THE DETAILS
Whether you are adding a room or converting an existing space, give
special thought to the details. The type of lighting required, current
and future storage needs, and special appliances and luxury items
such as whirlpools, fireplaces, or high-end kitchen appliances are
just a few items to consider. If you plan on using a particular brand
of product, like a certain brand of windows or countertops, make note
of it at this time. These details will impact the design, function
and budget of your finished product. More importantly, they will give
your home a character all its own. Know what you like and don’t
like when it comes to colors and styles, but be open-minded about
new ideas and options you have not thought about.
DETERMINE
A PROJECT BUDGET
Establish a firm budget for your remodeling project. You don’t
want to end up short on cash and not be able to finish your project,
nor do you want to end up deep in debt. Sean Kelly Construction will
help you with a budget. Working with us can help you get the most
for your hard earned dollar. SKC may also know some cost-saving tips
that can help you get more for your money. He says, “it’s
a good idea to keep 10 percent of your budget in reserve for any unexpected
expenses. Unforeseen cost will in evitably arise and you don’t
want to be unprepared. The reserve will also protect you should there
be a sudden increase in the cost of materials or value added features
not in the original plan.
CREATING
A REALISTIC TIMELINE
Timing is critical when planning a home improvement project. Be sure
to select a start date and an approximate finish date that best fits
into you and your contractor’s schedules. Be realistic. If you
are remodeling your kitchen and jobs similar in scope take six weeks
to complete, don’t expect yours to be done in three. When determining
a remodeling schedule, make sure to factor in material delivery times.
Custom products like cabinets, countertops and lighting often have
lengthy lead times. Before the work begins, ask SKC what inconveniences
may occur and plan for them. Proper timing of your job can go a long
way towards reducing stress levels and making your job go smoothly.
A WELL-WRITTEN
CONTRACT IS ESSENTIAL
Put your agreement in writing. We will provide you in our contract
a comprehensive description of the project, a payment schedule, a
timetable, and the types of products that will be used. The responsibilities
of Sean Kelly Construction and any subcontractors will also be described
included. The contract will also list provisions for warranties, changes
in procedures (Change Orders), and, in case a conflict arises, alternative
dispute resolution clauses. In short, it will be a well-written contract
clearly spelling out what the customer is getting from the contractor.
There will be no gray areas. Please ask questions if you are unclear
about exactly what the contract involves. Once the ink is dry, you
are ready to begin. SKC is ready to turn the remodeling ideas you
have been dreaming about into reality.
Top
of Page
The
Construction Process
Definitely
Different
At Sean Kelly Construction the construction process is intended to
make you, the homeowner, and an active participant. We want you to
be part of the process, not a bystander. We don’t pretend to
know better than you do about what you want.
Initial
Meeting
