Why renovate and how to hire a contractor

With housing starts at record highs and plenty of do-it-yourself TV shows to choose from, home renovations have become a very large business.

This brings us to the next question, why renovate? You may have bought your home a few years ago and it was perfect at the time. Things may have changed since then. Your family needs are different. No need to move again, so renovate. In new houses a common renovation for the fall and winter is finishing basements. A finished basement adds to a useful living space for a growing family or a convenient home office space.

An aging house may have a tired looking washroom that is screaming to be refreshed. The holiday season will be upon us before you know it and you may want a new look before you do any entertaining. Now you have contemplated and decided which renovation is just right for the next step, hiring a professional contractor and how do you find the contractor to suit your needs? Watching home improvement shows on TV may be very educational but remember the project is to complete during that time slot. Some projects are just not feasible for our busy life styles. Like the old saying goes "the trick of the trade." It takes years to learn the "tricks." Some jobs are better off left for the "pros."

How do you find the right pro for your job? Referrals are a good way to find someone who is dependable and does quality work. Asking the sales associates at your local building centre is a good way to start. Do not settle for one quote. Numerous quotes can be educational. Was the quotation done in a professional way? Was it written in proper detail? The lowest quote may not be the best quarter quotes your get what you pay for.

Local newspapers have a good listing of contractors. When meeting with the contractor do not be afraid to ask questions. How long have they been in business, what type of jobs do they specialize in and are they are connected to sub trades? Can they provide references similar to your renovation?

Most important, is the contractor willing to listen to your needs, can he provide interesting feedback or suggestions to customize the project to your liking? It is your living space and must fit your lifestyle.

Hopefully I have given you an overview and some food for thought and happy renovating.

Courtesy of Terry McCurdy, Pro Renovation, 905-584-1103.