General

A 2015 survey by Houzz & Home provides insight into the challenges faced by homeowners who are planning home improvement projects. According to the survey, the top three concerns are choosing the right service provider, finding the best products and materials, and staying on budget. Here’s how you can address these challenges head on:

Finding the Right Service Provider

This is the leading concern, so it’s clear that homeowners understand the correlation between hiring the right contractor and a successful home improvement project. Since the building industry is only minimally regulated in many states, you will need to do your own research and evaluate contractors to find one with a good reputation. The following qualities are important items to consider:

  1. Up-to-date licensing, as well as proper liability and workers’ compensation insurance coverage.
  2. Longevity in your community, local references, and a track record of outstanding customer care.
  3. Product manufacturer certifications and industry affiliations.
  4. A thorough knowledge of local building codes and permit requirements.
  5. Positive online reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Finding the Right Products and Materials

The vast range of building materials and products on the market today can make choosing the right ones extremely difficult. No wonder this is the second greatest concern for homeowners planning an improvement project. There are three important criteria to consider when making product and material choices:

  1. Quality and expected service life.
  2. Upfront and lifetime costs.
  3. Architectural style of your home and your personal taste.

Once you have defined the style you want, the experienced contractor can help with decisions. They will know the cost versus expected lifespan for the products as well as have access to the materials you need to make the selection process much easier.

Staying on Budget

Budget concerns rank as the third-most common worry for those planning a home improvement project. The easiest way to stay on budget is to choose a knowledgeable service provider with good communication skills. You and the contractor will work together on the following:

  1. Discuss the scope of the project and the specifics of what you want to accomplish.
  2. Develop a realistic plan for the project and a budget that matches your goals.
  3. Talk about any potential problems that may crop up and have a contingency budget in place to cover them.
  4. Break down the project details and costs in a signed contract.

If you are planning a home improvement project and you are looking for a reputable contractor with decades of experience, contact us at BELDON® Home Solutions.

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