Undertaking a home improvement can be a real pain. There are lots of details, scheduling issues, appointments, and decisions that have to be made. And don’t forget the “unforeseen circumstances” that might pop up, leading to project delays and budget overruns.
You need someone in your corner to take the pain out of creating your new beautiful living space so you can enjoy the experience.
I’ve Got You Covered at Every Phase of Your Project!
As your Home Improvement Consultant, I help you where and when you need help on all kinds of home construction and renovation projects. For some people, all that is necessary are nudges and reminders. Others might lead hectic lives and need me to do the project for them from start to finish.
Here’s How My Home Improvement Consultant Services Can Help You on a Typical Project
Initial Home Meeting
During our first consultation, I will review your wants, needs, and your proposed project budget. I can then give you an estimated cost of your project based on your preferences. My estimated budget provides a range of expenses for each area of your project, including contractor fees, appliance packages, vanity, and fixture selections.
Selection of Professionals
Once we have determined your preliminary scope of work, we can determine what types of professionals your project will need. If your project involves an extension and requires permits, for example, we may need to hire an architect and site engineer. For more straightforward projects, only a contractor may be needed. I will introduce you to my contractors and we can get a schedule for when your work might begin.
Project Design
We need a road map for the contractors to follow. Based on your project’s size and scope, we may need to have an architect do drawings. If it is a kitchen project and you are getting new cabinets, we can work off an installation plan from the cabinet company. I can draw up a simple layout plan for an uncomplicated facelift project where we replace items that need to be updated.
Defining Project Scope and Budget
Once we have selected professionals and have a design in hand, I can get actual work and materials estimates. We will then plug them into your budget to give you a better idea of your overall project cost. You will then meet the professionals who will be doing the work. If needed, permits will be applied for with local building departments.
Finalize Budget and Project Approval
We can work together to revise any aspects of the budget so that you are comfortable with the project’s cost. I can often make suggestions about alternative ways or budget-friendly designs to accomplish your objectives and achieve the look you want. Once the budget is finalized, we can schedule a start date to commence work.
Ongoing Project Management
Project management involves making sure that your contractors have all they need to get your project done properly and on-time.
Depending on how involved your project is, this may involve:
– Daily on-site visits
– Selection of needed materials and fixtures
– Scheduling workflows
– Being on hand for deliveries and inspections
– Billing, invoicing, and budget tracking
– Interfacing with the town for permits, if needed
– Dealing with “unforeseen problems”
– Daily project updates with client and contractors
Project Completion
Near the end of your project, we can review and create a punch list of unfinished items that will need to be overseen and completed before final payment. If additional new needs or items were discovered along the process, they would be added to the punch list as well.
Going Forward: Maintenance and Care
Once your project is completed, I can advise you on home maintenance, recommend contractors for roofing, gutters, driveways, tree trimming, drainage, etc, and give you care tips for your new fixtures and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a General Contractor?
No, I act as a liaison for my client to the contractor. My role as a Home Improvement Consultant is to ensure that your contractor has all they need (materials, decisions, permits, etc.) to build your project on time and within budget.
Are you an Architect?
No, I am not a certified Architect. However, I am a designer, having been in the commercial and residential building profession for over 30 years.
Do you do the work yourself?
I do not perform the work myself, but I do help you find the best contractors for your particular job. As part of my Home Improvement Consultant services, I can help you hire them and then keep them informed and you as well on the project’s progress.
Do you do furnishings, rugs, window treatments?
I can suggest Interior Decorators who can help you redesign your living spaces and select items like rugs and furnishings. My focus as your Home Improvement Consultant is on building the permanent features and fixtures in your home.
How do you bill for your services?
I typically bill by the hour. Occasionally I will bill a percentage of the total job, but I find that is not the best scenario for my clients.
Is your initial home meeting free?
Unfortunately, no. During our first meeting, I will be giving you a ton of detail and advice all of which I have worked very hard to obtain.
