Financing for larger projects i.e. additions, major
renovations, add-a-level, in-law suites are now extremely
difficult, unless you have collateral. Ten years ago, all you
needed was a good credit score and history and the ability to
meet the payments. Check out your ability to borrow and share the
budget with your builder and architect.
Additions, major renovations, add-a-level, in-law suites are
projects that need planning with all parties involved, the home
owner, architect and the general contractor should be involved in
all of the homeowners budget requirements that dictate the size
and quality of materials and fixtures to be used. The contractor
has a very good idea as to the cost of fixtures.
In-law suites are usually relative to the sale of the
property to provide the funds for the new addition or renovation.
Additions should have all the accomodating features, i.e. size,
bathroom features and adequate living space and still offer curb
appeal at the same time. Features like private balcoly, decks,
porches, etc., should be considered if budget allows.
In-law suites, additions and renovations have to conform to
local codes. Your contractor should have a handle on these codes
if the project is in the basic target area that he normaly does
business. Some projects can be done without the expensive
architect fees if the contractor has adequate experience. Choose
a home improvement contractor with the more experience, the
better, contractor age and experience is of prime importance.
Don't choose young inexperienced contractors unless you want
trouble. A contractor with 25 years under his belt should be a
minimum experience.
If a contractor, you are considering has had a couple of
negative comments, but has hundreds of approved projects,
consider him instead of a contractor that has only two or three
projects with no negative ones. Remember, experience counts.
Any construction contractor worth his "salt" should have hundreds
of completed jobs. Volume and quality is extremely important in
choosing a good contractor that you can trust finishing the
project with your approval.