Tips for Remodeling Your Baton Rouge Home

Spring and summer are great times to plan and then carry out home remodeling projects. Things like painting, siding, roofing, and window repair are best done when it the weather is mild. This year, credits are available through the Stimulus bill for insulation, doors and window, and alternative energy sources, so there is extra incentive to make upgrades that make economic sense while making the home more attractive and comfortable. Finding a contractor might be a little more difficult in some areas where some owners are staying put rather than selling, but quality licensed contractors are out there waiting for your call.

The home remodeling industry is basically unregulated, so contractors can charge whatever people will pay. It is the career choice of scammers who "were doing a job in the neighbor and have extra supplies" and prey on the elderly and the uniformed.

Since many remodeling tasks are best left to licensed contractors, what should a homeowner look for before entrusting a job to a contractor?

There can be a lot of variation in the charges for different projects, so getting three estimates is a sound practice. It might be a good idea to visit Lowe's or Home Depot (or check on line) to get a ballpark price for the supplies. This could be helpful if there is a big spread in the estimates. Often the supply costs to contractors are similar, but the mark up on the materials and the labor vary widely. Even though you might want to stay within a budget you have in mind for the job, going for the cheapest contractor might not be the best idea; ironically, picking the most expensive one does not guarantee quality. If you anticipate selling your home in a few years, don't go overboard on the cost so your home's value is in line with neighborhood prices.

Using a contractor recommended by a friend can be a great idea - but still get a few estimates. Your friend's job might give you an idea of how the finished product looks and the workmanship of the contractor and his crew. You might also hear war stories and editorial comments that will help you assess if you're friend's contractor is good choice for you. If have to pick a contactor blind, make sure to ask for recommendations and actually call the customer to see if they would recommend the business. You might even call the Better Business Bureau to verify if the vendor has had complaints against and how he has resolved them.

If you are installing windows or other products that qualify for tax credits or rebates, make sure that the contractor gives you the proper receipts so you can claim the credit. Make sure to tell the contractor that you want to take advantage of the rebate so he buys qualifying materials.

When a contractor is at your home working with power tools and working on ladders, accidents can easily happened. To prevent liability and undue usage of your own homeowners' insurance, make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded, insured, and covered by workmen's comp. A reputable contractor won't minds showing you're a copy of his paperwork.

After you have decided on the contactor, he will probably ask for a deposit. To make sure that he follows through and completes the work, give him the minimum he requests as a downpayment and make additional payments at intervals. Only pay the balance when the job is done to your satisfaction. Contractors often schedule several jobs and may not come back to work on your job if they have no incentive.

If you wonder which improvements you make will increase the asking price of your home in a few years, ask an experienced Realtor® for direction. Sandy Sandlin and her team at ReMax Excellent Properties can give you the help you need. If you are ready to buy or sell house now, Sandy knows Greater Baton Rouge real estate.