BUILD A REMODEL TEAM
By Susan Diane

One of the lessons I¹ve learned from eighteen years as a property owner utterly charmed with the magical process of remodeling, is that there is no formula to follow.
Absolutely every project is unique, subject to intangible and unpredictable influences like the seasons, the availability of trades people or even whatever inspired the remodel in the first place.
Having lived through a series of transformations at my own homes, I¹ve found that the guidance of commonly trusted "truths," are not necessarily guarantees for success. For instance, many of us like to boast twenty years experience, and yet this can occasionally translate to describe someone "set in their ways" and frankly, burnt out. Whereas another person with one quarter of those years under his tool belt, who has an enthusiastic approach to problem solving and knowledge of building options, may prove to be the most creative craftsman for a particular job.
Gathering together a remodel team requires a personal touch to match the expertise and personalities of each player with the goals of the project. Choosing the right people will depend on your ability to communicate what you¹re hoping to accomplish. Do you want to separate the TV from the hearth fire? Add more space or light? Increase convenience with a mud room or extra bath? Provide guest privacy? Or do you just want to create a themed kitchen, like Tuscan or "country?"
It¹s also important to completely understand the difference between new construction and what happens during a remodeling project. From a vacant lot of land, new construction is directed by a set of drawings, a "map" that an owner has accepted. The creative process is done and documented by an architect. The general contractor¹s bid specifically reflects those plans. There are few surprises, if any, as the project is known and agreed to by all involved. During construction, the contractor has possession of the project until he or she turns it over to the homeowner at completion.
With a remodel, you¹re inviting a crew to invade your existing home to tear it apart. And, aside from the indescribable mess, there may be a set of plans to outline new structural work needed, but these drawings don¹t cover what can¹t be seen until demolition has begun. A project typically has many unknown situations that arise and is full of surprises. It¹s an every day, on-going creative process, challenged with seemingly endless opportunities for problem-solving and decisions that must be made promptly or delay the progress of the work.
Of course, the "guess-timate" for this project could not have been founded on known details, so is therefore subject to change with every new piece of information. The final cost will definitely reflect any delays, and probably will include unplanned labor.
Undeniably, not for the faint of heart, but if you do decide to proceed with remodeling, I recommend that you don¹t choose a designer, architect or contractor based solely on price. Always make your decision after conducting an in-person interview to determine if the qualified candidates complement your personality. I¹ve never worked with contractors who did not do what they said they were going to do, and I attribute this to my interview process.
With my own remodel project or as an owner¹s agent, I¹m aware that the people hired will come into the sanctity of a home. These professionals need to be problem-solvers with open and flexible attitudes, determined to get the job done. With that established, we should have a ton of fun as remodeling is an adventure with few rivals at reaping the greatest rewards.

Susan Diane is owner of Remodel Network. She serves as a project coordinator functioning as an owner¹s agent for remodel projects. Contact her at (530) 550-8420 by phone and email: s.diane@sbcglobal.net.