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Free Tips
Read books and magazines, talk to your local renovation/building supply centre. Once you have a good
idea of what you want, prepare a detailed description of your renovation project. Put as much of it as possible in writing.
Get a clear picture of your current financial situation. Set a goal to stay within
budget. If you need financing, determine how much you can borrow, and allow a contingency.
Spend as much time as needed fleshing out your plans and specifications, whether you do this yourself or hire out.
The better the planning, the smoother the execution.
If you have decided not to do the
work yourself, have at least three contractors/ trade people bid on the job, submitting detailed written quotes.
Choose the best person for the job, taking into consideration the quote, the start and completion dates, and
their experience, professionalism and references.
Have a detailed contract drawn up which specifies, among
other details, the terms of payment. You can have your lawyer look at or write up a contract to be signed by your general
contractor.
Regularly check the work being done. It is important to be involved this will minimize and
eliminate any potential errors that could be costly or inconvenient.
Once
the work is completed to your satisfaction and you are certain that no undischarged liens have been placed on your property,
make your final payment to the contractor. Then sit back and enjoy!
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