Remember the “Telephone” game? One person said a simple sentence to another, that person repeated what they heard, and after being passed on to several different people, the person at the end of the line might as well have been speaking a message in a foreign language. Unfortunately, this is what can happen with home improvements that aren’t clearly communicated to the building contractor. If there’s going to be a miscommunication, no one wants it at the expense of a major remodel! When you’re ready to start your project, Building EdLacer recommends completing a few steps before picking up the phone to call.
1. Have your budget in mind.
Knowing what you’re willing and able to spend goes a long way in planning for your upgrade! From there, we can help you prioritize your project/wish list (see item #4) based on your budget.
2. Know the purpose of your remodel/redesign. 
What do you want to get out of your project? Typically, upgrades and redesigns serve to increase the market value of your home (you’re selling), or to increase your enjoyment of living there (you’re staying). Different considerations are relevant based on the reason for your remodel.
3. Provide us with a pretty solid timeline.
This can be a starting point or an ending point. Are there specific dates (holidays, vacations, out-of-town visitors, etc) that we would need to plan/work around? Your timeline can be either a hard start (want to begin on July 22) or hard end (want to be finished before Thanksgiving) date. Of course, the project length will depend on the type of work being done. It is important to us that we communicate regularly throughout the duration of the project.
4. Prioritize your wish list!
What are your must-haves vs. the things you’re willing to compromise on? Maybe you know you want a new bathroom, and solid glass shower doors are a must-have, but you’re flexible when it comes to the room’s other materials and fixtures. It is important to let us know your priorities so we can come alongside and make those non-negotiables our priorities, too!
5. Create plans/drawings/drafts of your vision.
We all know a picture is worth a thousand words, so talk to us with pictures! Probably most important of all factors is your ability to express to us what you are looking for in your redesign. Helpful tools include online pics (Pinterest, Better Homes and Gardens, etc) or paper magazine photos. If you’re doing a larger-scale remodel, you will likely have architectural drawings. These are also invaluable to us as we seek to 
understand and see the end result you’re envisioning. Be as detailed as you can! Show us/bring us examples/samples of designs, colors, and materials. The more imagery, the better.
6. Know your HOA/other local regulating organizations.
If you are under the authority of a homeowners’ association, you must follow their guidelines (sometimes very strict) regarding any changes that would affect your home’s exterior. This could be anything from additions, roofing, adding/removing a parking space, changing windows, to changing exterior color. Doing a little research up front will give you more clarity in defining which changes are most doable.
Are there other things to consider? Is insurance involved in your remodel? Do you live in a historical home? If so, we will need to speak with these folks prior to beginning the project.
Making the initial time investment to complete these six steps will put you in position for an exciting, successful home improvement project. Once you’ve completed step #6, it’s time to pick up the phone; give us a call and let’s talk about step #7!