We’ve really been enjoying the faqs of renovation series on our site, and we hope you have, too. A lot of emails have come through lately, with questions on all of it- especially topics we’ve covered.
So to make things even easier to find, and because we’ve shared a TON of info so far, we thought it would be best to have them all in a nice little recap before we move forward. This is so you can click through and decide what you’d like to read. {Of course, we think it’s best to read them all, because knowledge is power and stuff.}
Consider this the Cliff’s Notes version so you can keep them all organized.
Our first post was on Designers + Contractors 101. Here’s some topics we covered:
• When do I need a contractor and when do I need a designer?
– Also known as, tile doesn’t come with a return policy once it’s installed
• What comes first, the contractor or the designer?
– We’re big believers in having a vision for your home. Come see why.
• How much do contractors and designers charge?
– Average rates and how they work
• How should I pick a designer?
– How to pick one based on the following criteria
• How should I pick a contractor?
– Things to consider, and red flags
• Things to remember as the homeowner… from being realistic, to following your gut instincts, and the process.
Post two was getting started. Here’s some topics we covered:
• Why do you need a contract?
– It doesn’t equal a lack of trust. And other common misconceptions.
– The scope of work, bids and allowances, and so much more
• Can I act as my own contractor?
– We’re talking about full on renovations of entire homes + list a bit of pros + cons
• What are subs?
– Phrases you’ll hear thrown around and what the heck that even means
• Do I have to pull a permit?
– And other ways to not go to jail – JK – but seriously check this one out.
Post three was about working with a designer. Here’s what we covered:
• What’s the purpose of a designer?
– And why your great Aunt Bessie may not always be right
• Types of payment
– The three general ways a designer will charge
• Do I need a contract?
– How to know when you need one, and what it should cover
• Just a few things designers probably want you to know
– And other things to consider, from your house, to boundaries
Post four – Reality Check. Here’s what we covered:
• Once you get started, this is known as the reality check phase.
– Where dreams and big visions collide with, well, reality
– It can all be a little overwhelming
– Why living in a social media/tv world, isn’t always a good reference point
– You may want to punch someone, and cry… and that’s okay
Post five: the differences between estimate and budget. Here’s what we covered:
• What about them Apples?
– RARELY are you comparing apples to apples when it comes to looking at different bids
– What this really means
• A bid isn’t a bill
– and other common mistakes that people misunderstand
• Cost plus bids
– And why you shouldn’t pick a contractor based on a piece of paper, alone.
• Comparing the bids
– What you really should do and why this matters
• Let’s line dance
– And really, the next step when it comes to all things money
• Payments
– And other things to consider in the process
• Your canvas
– It’s your house, so here’s how to end up with a beautiful project
– And other red flags to look for
We truly hope this helps clear up any questions you may have. We know this is a lot of info, and just felt the need to recap, before we moved on.
To see all the posts we have so far on one page, just start at the bottom and move on up. Check them all out in thumbnail format, here.
As always, let us know if you have any questions. Have an inspired day!
Cindy Richter says
Fantastical post! Goodness me y’all are thorough! I do have a quick question. Now that you’ve used and have the microwave in the island instead of counter height or higher, do you like it? Thanks…BTW Love how it all turned out!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Cindy! Thank you so much! Jamin is truly enjoying writing these. We LOVE the microwave in our island. We can’t imagine it anywhere else now that we’ve had it for some time. The kids can reach and serve themselves, so that’s another bonus. Microwaves have always been a bit of an evil necessity so it’s nice to not have it hovering up high. I hope that helps! ;}