Monthly Archives: June 2017

You probably already know that we do top-of-the-line remodeling projects here at Michael Lohman General Contracting. If you’re reading this, chances are good you’re contemplating your own project. There isn’t one of us who hasn’t thought about how much we would appreciate and enjoy the home of our dreams, prepared to our specifications. Buying or building the right home can get you there, or at least take you most of the way… but sometimes, the absolutely perfect environment is one remodeling project away. Large or small, remodeling projects should be considered carefully before they start. This ensures that everyone involved is on the same page and there are no surprises. The result should always be a home that is closer to what you desire for your life. That is what Michael Lohman General Contracting exists to provide.

Get It In Writing
Your written contract is the guide to what you are asking your contractor to do and what your contractor is promising to provide. If it’s not in writing, there’s  no way to prove that it exists. That means there’s no way to refer back to it if there is any question about what’s expected of the job. A detailed written record is an essential reference for both you and the contractor when embarking on any remodel project, so make sure all the details of your remodel are specified and agreed. If you look over your documents and you don’t see something you expect, or you see something that doesn’t work, talk to your contractor and revise the written documents. This protects both of you. 

What Permits Do You Need?
You’d be surprised how many people don’t know that you very likely need a building permit — or more than one of them — for your remodel project. Depending on the project, a permit might not be necessary, but the bigger it gets, the greater the likelihood you’ll need that paperwork. Interior work, for example, rarely requires a permit, but expanding your home, constructing an outbuilding (or constructing an outbuilding beyond a certain size), and significantly changing a structure’s appearance or composition will probably require permits. Your local government should be consulted regarding permit requirements before you start any remodeling project. If you’re not sure, ask your contractor what’s required. A good contractor will help you understand what paperwork must be obtained before the project can begin.

Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?
Every remodel is fueled by money. Your budget is extremely important because it determines the scope of the project. You’re paying your contractor for the work, yes, but you’re also paying for the materials used to do the work. Where are you buying those materials? Are the costs for them competitive? Are you sacrificing quality for cost? A good contractor will help you to understand not only the work to be done, but the materials you should use to have that work done. Unlike some contractors, Michael Lohman General Contracting won’t just expect you to buy the materials and then leave you to figure them out on your own. We’ll work with you to make sure all the components of your project are properly in place.

You should also consider the scope of your remodel from the standpoint of what it does for you and your home. You may have plenty of money for a project, but just because you can spend that money doesn’t mean you necessarily should. Again, working with your contractor to determine the scope before the project starts will ensure that you get not just what you want, but what you actually need.

Be Prepared To Be Flexible
Finally, before you start your remodel, remember that you may need to be flexible. Every job starts out with a plan… and plans sometimes need to change. There are always unexpected issues or even costs that may come up. Budget for these ahead of time — and remember that time is part of that budget. As the old saying goes, you can have your work done well, cheaply, or quickly… but you can only have two of the three. When it comes to remodeling, it’s best to budget both plenty of time and funds for the best outcome, but as always, your contractor acts as your guide to make sure you get the best possible work within your budget and according to a timeframe that works for you both.