Every home renovation project – from a small bathroom to a large addition – requires a step-by-step process for successful completion. The first step in every project is the design consultation. Some may consider this an extraneous step, made simply for aesthetics. This is simply not the case.
Some contractors offer a free consultation, but this can be misleading. A “free” consultation will often end with a basic estimate that is worth what the client paid for it. The contractor will come to the client’s home, take measurements of the space, and get an incomplete idea of what the client envisions for the project. With this limited information the contractor will come up with an “estimate,” but the amount listed is often lower than what the client will actually end up paying. “Cost eating,” or a lowball estimation of the amount of materials and labor, is common for an inexperienced contractor and can leave clients with unfinished projects and contractors with no profit. Alternatively, the contractor surprises the client with extra costs during or at the end of the project that should have been noticed in the design consultation, but are now the client’s responsibility.
Flexibility in the contract is necessary for unforeseen circumstances that may arise during any renovation. A client may decide during renovation to go with a different tile option, or demolition might expose a mold issue that needs to be addressed. A successful design consultant will give a client all the information they need to make any informed decision.
At Remodeling Wizards of Maryland, this is our process:
Step 1: Create a drawing
Our professional takes measurements and our designer prepares a drawing. Our designer takes duct work, electrical, and plumbing into consideration. The measurements of new appliances will also be considered and added into the design, as well as any other hardware. The goal here is to make sure everything fits, is functional, will be up to code, and is included in the drawing for both of us.
Step 2: Aesthetics
The design will give you the overall picture of how your space will look and feel. We consider things like frosted glass windows on cabinet doors, black brackets under wall shelves, granite or soap stone counters, feature walls, mosaic backsplash tiles, or any other design choices to make your space your own.
Step 4: Scope of Work
Once the drawing is complete, the scope of work is developed. “Scope of work” is the determination of how long the project will take from start to finish, and how much materials and labor will cost.
Step 3: A Cost Quote
The words “estimate” and “quote” do not mean the same thing. An estimate is just a ballpark of the potential cost. A quote takes into account the full scope of the work and is much more precise. Our experts may give free estimates – or ballpark projections of costs – based on our experience. For example, we know that a full basement renovation can run between $75-$100k. Our website features ballpark estimates for a number of home renovation projects. This is not a quote.
A quote is a signed document between us that describes in detail the scope of work and total fixed cost of the project. That is why the consultation phase is necessary in order for us to provide you with a quote.
What you get
At the end of a consultation phase, you get a detailed drawing of your project, a scope of work with the final quote, and hopefully the feeling of trust and confidence in our company so you choose us for your current and future projects.
Our Goal
Remodeling Wizards of Maryland strives to provide a seamless process for our customers. Our design consultation phase is just the first way for us to make sure we can provide an exceptional product you’ll love.
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