We work hard to make the remodeling process as painless as possible, but a lot depends on you. A good contractor (ie. us) actually prefers that you are well informed about the process and play an involved role. We’re going to give it to you straight, so here’s what we hope for in the perfect client:
Know what you want. During that first consultation, we hope to see that you have a clear idea of what you want done. When a client is indecisive and changes their mind constantly, it causes lots of extra legwork and expense. This is not to say that you have to come to the process with the finished product detailed out in your mind, we are the experts and are happy to advise and design for you. But know what your goals are. We can take you the rest of the way.
Know your budget. Getting in over your head is bad for you, and it’s bad for the contractor (again, us). Be very clear with yourself as to what you are willing to spend and what is reasonable to expect for your money. Don’t be that homeowner that goes with the lowest bid, and is left standing in an abandoned, half-finished kitchen with broken cabinets and a fridge too wide for the space it’s supposed to fill (true story). Be realistic and know your boundaries.
Know your options. Before you even call us, do your research on styles and products for your project. The internet is an incredible resource for inspiration, reviews and product specs. Of course, we’re pretty confident in our ability to match the right design and product to your project, but you’ll feel more likely to trust us when you see the logic behind our recommendations. And it helps you refine your goals for your project.
Know what you’re getting into. Remodeling is rewarding, but it isn’t always a walk in the park. Things take time, and surprises are inevitable. We try to schedule and plan with this in mind, but we are merely mortal (working on a serum to change that, but it’s slow work), so plan your timing accordingly. Just try to remember that some delays are unavoidable, and we are in just as much as a hurry as you are to get the job done.
Know where you fit. You hire a contractor (there’s us again) because you trust their expertise and experience (aw, we like you too!). While it’s important to be involved, sometimes clients forget that we do know what we’re doing. Constant surveillance and multiple phone calls a day can actually hinder the progress of your project, not to mention increase stress on both sides. We’re not trying to kick you out of your own project, we’re quite aware that this is your house and you are the one paying for our work. But constant interruption and misplaced suspicion cause delays and frustration. Pick a contractor you can trust (we suggest OTM Designs & Remodeling) and then keep open and reasonable communication.
As a Design+Build General Contractor, I offer my clients a one-stop shopping approach to all of their home remodeling projects. I work with my clients from initial conception of a project through its completion. Every aspect of the job is managed by me and my professional crew. You will be included in every step of the design process until the final drawings are completed. No detail is left to chance. General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Remodeling Throughout the Los Angeles area.
Written By:
Offer Steuer
President
OTM Designs & Remodeling, Inc.
For more information you may contact us via email at service@otm1designs.com or you may call us at 888-981-1415. Our website is www.otm1designs.com.