Do I really need a general contractor?

Do I really need a general contractor?

You should hire a general contractor if your project… If you are simply having your living room repainted or your shower drain fixed, you do not need to hire a general contractor. If you are having a major renovation done, such as your bathroom, kitchen, or basement, it’s a good idea to invest in a general contractor.

Can I do renovations on my own house?

Do-it-yourself (DIY) Renovating your own home can be a rewarding experience and can work well for simple improvements. Indeed, popular TV programs make home renovation look easy. However, for larger or more complex projects, inexperience may lead to unforeseen environmental and financial costs.

Is it worth it to hire a contractor?

How long will it take to complete the project? If you think a week or more is needed, consider hiring a general contractor. With his or her knowledge of the time any subcontractors will need, the contractor can keep things moving smoothly.

Where do I start if I want to renovate my house?

Whole Home Remodel – Where to Start

1. Determine what you can remodel yourself – and what requires a contractor.
2. Determine your budget.
3. Decide on the design and style of your home.
4. Acquire the appropriate permits.
5. Research builder’s risk insurance.
6. Create a timeline and stick to it.
7. Get started!

What comes first in a home renovation?

This is why experts agree that choosing to remodel your kitchen or bathroom first is traditionally the smartest move. And while kitchens typically cost more to remodel than bathrooms, they tend to yield a better return on investment, so they end up paying for themselves over the long run.

How much money should you give a contractor up front?

In California, the state limits advance payment at the time of contract signing to 10\% of the total estimated job cost or $1,000, whichever amount is lower! All payments thereafter are supposed to be made for work performed or for materials delivered to the job site.

How do I keep my contractor honest?

5 Tricks to Keep Your Contractor Honest

1. Use a Contract. Hiring a contractor, especially one that works by estimate or bid, will require a contract to be signed so that both sides stick to the agreement.
2. Be Specific.
3. Get an Estimate.
4. Use Invoices.
5. Never Pay It All Upfront.

In what order should I remodel my house?

Step 1: Planning. Nail down a budget.

Step 2: Demolition.

Step 3: HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing.

Step 4: Framing and Drywall.

Step 5: Painting.

Step 6: Cabinets & Fixtures.

Step 7: Doors & Windows.

Step 8: Clean House & Air Vents.

Is it cheaper to remodel or tear down and rebuild?

When considering the possibility of a whole home remodel, part of the process is deciding whether or not you should invest in your current space or build a new home with the features you want. Long story short, it’s almost always cheaper to renovate inside your existing home than rebuilding.

Should you hire a contractor for your home remodel?

Here are a few of the most important pros and cons that should be considered when deciding if you should hire a contractor for your home remodel. The quality of the work: As a licensed professional who is bonded and insured, a contractor is going to deliver quality and adhere to codes and regulations.

Is home remodeling difficult to do?

Home remodeling is daunting to say the least. Between the time that it takes out of your daily routine, the cost, and deciding what to renovate first, there’s a lot to keep track of when renovating every room in your home – not to mention the coordination it requires with interior designers, contractors, and other professionals.

What does a typical house renovation contractor do?

For smaller home remodel projects, a typical house renovation contractor is equipped to both conceive and deliver the project fully. These smaller-scale projects can include installing countertops, flooring, ceilings — essentially elements that don’t change your home structurally.

How do I start remodeling my house myself?

Determine what you can remodel yourself – and what requires a contractor. Determine your budget. Decide on the design and style of your home. Acquire the appropriate permits. Research builder’s risk insurance. Create a timeline and stick to it. Get started! Home remodeling is daunting to say the least.