Tip #4
Did the contractor ask pertinent questions?
When they came to your home for the bid did they initially ask exactly what you wanted?
If you’re calling for bids on a kitchen remodel, did they ask if you had plans? Are you completely gutting and re-arranging the space? Have you looked at tile, appliances and your finished product?
What’s important here is, are they coming in and getting a sense of your vision or “creating” a product that’s their vision?
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Seven Tips for Hiring a Contractor
Tip #3
Did the contractor walk through your home with you?
In other words, did they look at your home, ask questions and hear what you wanted as far as what they were bidding on?
It’s very important that you feel as if they are paying attention to what it is you want as well as need during the process of the job.
This is where you can test what kind of experience you’ll be getting during the remodel with this contractor.
In January I will be launching www.remodel411.info which will be featuring my blogs and they will be interactive, you'll be able to post. It will also let you know where you can get the Remodel 411 - Remodeling is a Relationship book. Stay tuned.
Did the contractor walk through your home with you?
In other words, did they look at your home, ask questions and hear what you wanted as far as what they were bidding on?
It’s very important that you feel as if they are paying attention to what it is you want as well as need during the process of the job.
This is where you can test what kind of experience you’ll be getting during the remodel with this contractor.
In January I will be launching www.remodel411.info which will be featuring my blogs and they will be interactive, you'll be able to post. It will also let you know where you can get the Remodel 411 - Remodeling is a Relationship book. Stay tuned.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Seven Tips for Hiring a Contractor
Tip #2
Did the contractor arrive at the scheduled time?
Did you show up on time? I've had homeowners who did not show up for appointments. The contractor’s time is also valuable. If you set a time - be there. Give what you wish to get in return.
If the contractor did not show up on time, did he call to let you know he would be late? I scheduled a tree trimmer to come out to my home to give me a bid. I spoke to his wife and set the date and time. On Wednesday, the day of the appointment (4:30), the contactor called at 3:45 and said they were just finishing up a job and could they come around 6:00. No problem. They came at about 5:50. That is what I mean when I ask, “did they call to let you know they’d be late?” Professionalism. It also lets you know that communication is something this contractor is familiar with. Remember, the biggest part of the job and how well it goes relies on clear, open and honest communication.
Did the contractor arrive at the scheduled time?
Did you show up on time? I've had homeowners who did not show up for appointments. The contractor’s time is also valuable. If you set a time - be there. Give what you wish to get in return.
If the contractor did not show up on time, did he call to let you know he would be late? I scheduled a tree trimmer to come out to my home to give me a bid. I spoke to his wife and set the date and time. On Wednesday, the day of the appointment (4:30), the contactor called at 3:45 and said they were just finishing up a job and could they come around 6:00. No problem. They came at about 5:50. That is what I mean when I ask, “did they call to let you know they’d be late?” Professionalism. It also lets you know that communication is something this contractor is familiar with. Remember, the biggest part of the job and how well it goes relies on clear, open and honest communication.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Seven Tips for Hiring a Contractor
Tip #1
When calling for estimatesmake sure the contractors you are calling RETURN THEIR PHONE CALLS!
I know this seems like an “of course I know that” tip, however, you’d be amazed at how many people who’ve experienced nightmares didn’t follow that tip when selecting someone to work in their home. This can lead to what I call the Emotionology of Remodeling "syndrome".
Emotionology of Remodeling:
When thinking about remodeling your home I’d like you to think of the why’s of the project you’re considering. So many times people enter into a home improvement project
without any foresight of what’s involved. There are many things to consider depending on how big
the project is. Some of the questions to consider are:
How long is this project going to take?
How will I feel once it’s done?
What are the real costs and what value will it add to my home and my life?
If you are considering a remodeling project really ask yourself these questions before beginning and it will make the whole process much easier.
Please visit our newly updated Eye for Detail website
with more articles, publications and Reva’s bio as well as an excerpt from the soon-to-be-released book - Remodel 411 - The Relationship of Remodeling.
www.eyefordetail.biz
When calling for estimatesmake sure the contractors you are calling RETURN THEIR PHONE CALLS!
I know this seems like an “of course I know that” tip, however, you’d be amazed at how many people who’ve experienced nightmares didn’t follow that tip when selecting someone to work in their home. This can lead to what I call the Emotionology of Remodeling "syndrome".
Emotionology of Remodeling:
When thinking about remodeling your home I’d like you to think of the why’s of the project you’re considering. So many times people enter into a home improvement project
without any foresight of what’s involved. There are many things to consider depending on how big
the project is. Some of the questions to consider are:
How long is this project going to take?
How will I feel once it’s done?
What are the real costs and what value will it add to my home and my life?
If you are considering a remodeling project really ask yourself these questions before beginning and it will make the whole process much easier.
Please visit our newly updated Eye for Detail website
with more articles, publications and Reva’s bio as well as an excerpt from the soon-to-be-released book - Remodel 411 - The Relationship of Remodeling.
www.eyefordetail.biz
Monday, November 8, 2010
“I always check out a contractor’s license and won’t work with someone who doesn’t have one...
....because I’ve had problems with contractors before!”
When I got a call from someone who told me this, she was calling me for a bid not a coaching session, however, I still address these kinds of comments from a coaching mind.
I simply told her that I not only coach homeowners but contractors and I tell both parties to check out the other party thoroughly and “listen to their gut”.
I told her that a problem “with a contractor” isn’t ever one-sided. I said I’ve heard plenty of stories about “not so wonderful” clients. I’ve also experienced them (that’s another article, however).
She actually paused and said “I guess so, I’ve never thought of that as a possibility”.
So, you see, a remodel coach is still a genre that’s much needed. It appears many homeowners still view a remodel as a one-sided relationship and that’s the myth I’m open to change.
It’s far more than one-sided. It’s a conversation between ALL parties.
What I talk about in the chapter on Listening in Remodel 411 is: listening is the most important aspect of communication. Remember, we have two ears and one mouth for a reason!
If you or anyone you know isn’t sure about how the communication needs to go to create a successful remodel please call or “pass me on” to someone you know who may be thinking about a remodeling project. A great remodeling relationship will create a wonderful experience for all concerned.
When I got a call from someone who told me this, she was calling me for a bid not a coaching session, however, I still address these kinds of comments from a coaching mind.
I simply told her that I not only coach homeowners but contractors and I tell both parties to check out the other party thoroughly and “listen to their gut”.
I told her that a problem “with a contractor” isn’t ever one-sided. I said I’ve heard plenty of stories about “not so wonderful” clients. I’ve also experienced them (that’s another article, however).
She actually paused and said “I guess so, I’ve never thought of that as a possibility”.
So, you see, a remodel coach is still a genre that’s much needed. It appears many homeowners still view a remodel as a one-sided relationship and that’s the myth I’m open to change.
It’s far more than one-sided. It’s a conversation between ALL parties.
What I talk about in the chapter on Listening in Remodel 411 is: listening is the most important aspect of communication. Remember, we have two ears and one mouth for a reason!
If you or anyone you know isn’t sure about how the communication needs to go to create a successful remodel please call or “pass me on” to someone you know who may be thinking about a remodeling project. A great remodeling relationship will create a wonderful experience for all concerned.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
7 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Remodel On-Purpose
These tips will help you choose the best contractor/client for you. The more knowledgeable you are about your expectations as a homeowner/company, the less problems will arise during the project.
Communication and research are truly the first steps to making a wise decision. You do this for most large purchases, why not before you move into the relationship of remodeling?
Homeowners, learn why you “should” never choose a contractor based on the price alone - either the highest (thinking you would receive more value and better product) or the lowest because you “need to get a deal”.
Contractors, learn that it’s OK to say no and why not to choose a client out of the desperation of “needing” a job or the money.
1. You pick a contractor/job based on money alone.
It really is true that “you get what you pay for”. Whether it’s high or low it’s quite simple - know what’s included, what are you really getting for the price you will pay?
If a client isn’t right for you (you see the red flags before you even begin) walk away. Especially if you are desperate for a job because, trust me, if you take that client on simply because you need the money, it more than likely won’t go well.
2. You think all contractors/jobs are the same.
No two contractors are the same and all remodels aren’t the same because all houses and homeowners are different.
Since all personalities are different, it would stand that, since remodeling is a relationship, every contractor will bring something different to the experience, as will each homeowner.
When meeting for the first time, communicate and listen!
3. You MUST shop at least 3 contractors/subs for bids.
Homeowners, just as a good contractor has loyal customers and no time for price shoppers - contractors, so do subs have loyal contractors they work for.
Once you find a good fit, go with it. If you feel comfortable with them and their communication, it’s (in most cases) that simple - flow with it.
4. In a “down market” you should get it for less/charge less.
Homeowners: just as your cost of living hasn’t changed, so hasn’t the contractors’. Contractors: remember this when bidding your jobs. Everyone: use some common sense.
5. You think the job gets done “over-night” or, as a contractor, you underestimate the time needed to complete the job.
When you’re in a hurry to get the bid to the customer or have the job completed and rush the bidding process or the work, no good will come of it. Patience and time, as well as clarity in the process, whether it’s bidding or communicating about the time, is the key.
6. You pick a contractor who doesn’t draw up a sensible time schedule and talk about how that could change. Contractors, heed this.
Talk about time, money and mess up-front, early and talk about it with clarity and good communication/listening. Contractors, take time to really figure out what you need to earn and to complete the job as well as any unforeseen changes and DISCUSS them honestly and in lay terms with the client.
7. Homeowners don’t ask for references and call them. Contractors don’t pay attention to red flags or clues.
This is probably the simplest way to avoid nightmares along with clear, honest communication. Listen, ask questions and if you don’t feel you are a fit for each other - walk away. It’s OK for the client and it’s OK for the contractor to say no.
Communication and research are truly the first steps to making a wise decision. You do this for most large purchases, why not before you move into the relationship of remodeling?
Homeowners, learn why you “should” never choose a contractor based on the price alone - either the highest (thinking you would receive more value and better product) or the lowest because you “need to get a deal”.
Contractors, learn that it’s OK to say no and why not to choose a client out of the desperation of “needing” a job or the money.
1. You pick a contractor/job based on money alone.
It really is true that “you get what you pay for”. Whether it’s high or low it’s quite simple - know what’s included, what are you really getting for the price you will pay?
If a client isn’t right for you (you see the red flags before you even begin) walk away. Especially if you are desperate for a job because, trust me, if you take that client on simply because you need the money, it more than likely won’t go well.
2. You think all contractors/jobs are the same.
No two contractors are the same and all remodels aren’t the same because all houses and homeowners are different.
Since all personalities are different, it would stand that, since remodeling is a relationship, every contractor will bring something different to the experience, as will each homeowner.
When meeting for the first time, communicate and listen!
3. You MUST shop at least 3 contractors/subs for bids.
Homeowners, just as a good contractor has loyal customers and no time for price shoppers - contractors, so do subs have loyal contractors they work for.
Once you find a good fit, go with it. If you feel comfortable with them and their communication, it’s (in most cases) that simple - flow with it.
4. In a “down market” you should get it for less/charge less.
Homeowners: just as your cost of living hasn’t changed, so hasn’t the contractors’. Contractors: remember this when bidding your jobs. Everyone: use some common sense.
5. You think the job gets done “over-night” or, as a contractor, you underestimate the time needed to complete the job.
When you’re in a hurry to get the bid to the customer or have the job completed and rush the bidding process or the work, no good will come of it. Patience and time, as well as clarity in the process, whether it’s bidding or communicating about the time, is the key.
6. You pick a contractor who doesn’t draw up a sensible time schedule and talk about how that could change. Contractors, heed this.
Talk about time, money and mess up-front, early and talk about it with clarity and good communication/listening. Contractors, take time to really figure out what you need to earn and to complete the job as well as any unforeseen changes and DISCUSS them honestly and in lay terms with the client.
7. Homeowners don’t ask for references and call them. Contractors don’t pay attention to red flags or clues.
This is probably the simplest way to avoid nightmares along with clear, honest communication. Listen, ask questions and if you don’t feel you are a fit for each other - walk away. It’s OK for the client and it’s OK for the contractor to say no.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
When will we get over the wholesale mentality?
I realize that, for years, we’ve really wanted the free lunch, something for nothing and had the thinking “free, that’s the price tag I love!”
Is that really what we believe or is it that we must simply be more conscious of what we pay for things and, if we don’t need them, we don’t buy them?
I was talking to someone yesterday about PR for my businesses and, in discussing the remodeling business, the discussion came to money and the cost of remodeling. What I told her and know for sure is, until I got over wanting everything on the cheap, whether clothes, services, cars or the like, how was I ever going to earn enough to get a remodel done right, earn a profit for the company and pay me? It wasn’t going to happen.
As I continued to want to get “a deal” on everything, I drew to me homeowners who wanted to get the same thing from me. When I really started looking deep within myself as to my part in not earning enough to profit the company and pay myself, I realized that I definitely had a part in it because of my “pay me what I’m worth but I’m not willing to pay you what you’re worth” thinking.
The day I made a decision to “stop that!’ was the day I became free of worrying about whether or not someone wanted to afford me.
Notice I said wanted to afford me? That’s exactly what it is. It’s not a matter of “can they?” It’s “do they want the experience I bring to the table or not?”
I decided to no longer be “on sale”. Now, that didn’t happen overnight but I’ve held my ground and it is turning around. When you stand for something or a way of being treated for years it takes some time for the shift to happen. But….happen it does.
As we were talking, she absolutely got what I was saying, not only about remodeling but in the area of any kind of business transaction.
Now, there’s nothing wrong with garage sales, outlet shopping and using coupons, etc. However, there’s a place for everything and everything in its place. When it comes to services such as getting a website built, remodeling your kitchen or getting a good massage, I believe you get what you pay for.
What do you want to pay for? Do you want a contractor that shows up because they’re earning a living and can afford to come to work everyday or doe you want someone who’s spotty at best about their time and how they manage a project?
I encourage you to really think about this when it comes time to remodel your home and ask questions about the price from a place of authenticity - meaning “I just want to be conscious of what I’m paying for” rather than “You’re charging more than I want to pay so give it to me for less”.
We all must be conscious of what we pay for things and when as well as if we really can afford it or not. If you can’t afford something, don’t make the person who’s providing the work wrong for what they charge. Figure out if you really do want and need what you’re asking for and go about saving until you can get it at the price being asked.
For the most part, it’s probably a fair price. Remember everyone must earn a living unless they’re doing something as a hobby. I’m not remodeling or coaching as a hobby - I’m in business to profit the company and earn a living for myself.
Happy thinking!
Reva Kussmaul
CEO – Eye For Detail Inc.
http://www.eyefordetail.biz
Is that really what we believe or is it that we must simply be more conscious of what we pay for things and, if we don’t need them, we don’t buy them?
I was talking to someone yesterday about PR for my businesses and, in discussing the remodeling business, the discussion came to money and the cost of remodeling. What I told her and know for sure is, until I got over wanting everything on the cheap, whether clothes, services, cars or the like, how was I ever going to earn enough to get a remodel done right, earn a profit for the company and pay me? It wasn’t going to happen.
As I continued to want to get “a deal” on everything, I drew to me homeowners who wanted to get the same thing from me. When I really started looking deep within myself as to my part in not earning enough to profit the company and pay myself, I realized that I definitely had a part in it because of my “pay me what I’m worth but I’m not willing to pay you what you’re worth” thinking.
The day I made a decision to “stop that!’ was the day I became free of worrying about whether or not someone wanted to afford me.
Notice I said wanted to afford me? That’s exactly what it is. It’s not a matter of “can they?” It’s “do they want the experience I bring to the table or not?”
I decided to no longer be “on sale”. Now, that didn’t happen overnight but I’ve held my ground and it is turning around. When you stand for something or a way of being treated for years it takes some time for the shift to happen. But….happen it does.
As we were talking, she absolutely got what I was saying, not only about remodeling but in the area of any kind of business transaction.
Now, there’s nothing wrong with garage sales, outlet shopping and using coupons, etc. However, there’s a place for everything and everything in its place. When it comes to services such as getting a website built, remodeling your kitchen or getting a good massage, I believe you get what you pay for.
What do you want to pay for? Do you want a contractor that shows up because they’re earning a living and can afford to come to work everyday or doe you want someone who’s spotty at best about their time and how they manage a project?
I encourage you to really think about this when it comes time to remodel your home and ask questions about the price from a place of authenticity - meaning “I just want to be conscious of what I’m paying for” rather than “You’re charging more than I want to pay so give it to me for less”.
We all must be conscious of what we pay for things and when as well as if we really can afford it or not. If you can’t afford something, don’t make the person who’s providing the work wrong for what they charge. Figure out if you really do want and need what you’re asking for and go about saving until you can get it at the price being asked.
For the most part, it’s probably a fair price. Remember everyone must earn a living unless they’re doing something as a hobby. I’m not remodeling or coaching as a hobby - I’m in business to profit the company and earn a living for myself.
Happy thinking!
Reva Kussmaul
CEO – Eye For Detail Inc.
http://www.eyefordetail.biz
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