WHERE TO START: 

FREE Tip #1) First, decide on your remodeling company. Be sure they are licensed and do not have any complaints against them with the Better Business Bureau. Ask for referrals. If they did good work for a customer, that customer should be more than happy to tell you about it. Look at their web site for testimonials and license and insurance information.  Before and  After pictures are always nice to look at. Be sure to ask how long the work took to complete from start to finish.

FREE Tip #2) Next, with any home project, always create a wish list, then a budget, and finally a game plan. A professional can help you with this. It will help you avoid overspending and making unnecessary and costly mistakes.

FREE Tip #3) Most importantly, if you will be remodeling more than one main room at the same time, consider staying away from your home while it's 'under construction'. You may not realize before hand how annoying it can become to not be able to get to the kitchen for a simple glass of water.

FREE Tip #4) Have you lived with white walls on the interior of your home just because you don't know what color to paint them? Remember to never choose a paint color unless you bring a sample home and see it in the room you are going to paint in the daytime and at night. Most paint stores sell sample size jars of paint just for this purpose.

FREE Tip #5) Painting the exterior of your home instantly creates 'curb appeal'. There are many options to choose from. Depending on where you live - either by the beach or in freezing weather conditions, we can help you select the right type of paint for your home's exterior. Don't be afraid to choose a bright color on a piece of furniture, door, crown molding or window frame, especially if the walls and trim are neutral. You may also need to get the color pre-approved from your homeowners association if applicable.

FREE Tip #6) There should be one main focal point in each room - a fireplace, entertainment center, or large window work well. Once you select the 'theme' for your focal point, it will be easier to choose the design for the remainder of the room.

FREE Tip #7) When choosing flooring, keep in mind that the texture of a floor can completely change the look and feel of the room. Consider high traffic areas, water hazards (a leaky dishwasher can reek havock on a wood floor), etc. when selecting what type of flooring to have installed.

FREE Tip #8) After those main projects have been completed, it's time to look at your accessories. Clutter is one of the biggest problems in homes. Select only your favorite pieces, and donate, sell or store the rest.

FREE Tip #9) Do you want to sell your home and not update it since you are planning on moving anyway? Keep in mind that investing in your home now can speed up the sale of your home. You may want to consider paying now to save later. 'House stagging' has become popular in speeding up the sale of homes. It could mean the difference of selling your home in a few months, not a few years. Also, save all your receipts from the project. Investments in your home can be deducted from your capital gain when you sell.

Call us today to find out more - We look forward to serving you! 386-492-4242

3 Tips on How to Trim Home Repair Bills 

1.  Be Clear on the Phone: If a repair man knows what to expect, he or she will come prepared, saving you both time and money. Offer to email a photo of the problem if that will help. Be detailed about the problem.
2.  Save on Base Charges: Some repair companies usually charge a flat fee to come to your home or business. It could be $25 to $95 or more. If the electrician is coming to look at the kitchen plug, don't forget the back porch plug and garage light as well.
3. Purchase Supplies Yourself: If you need your floor tiled or a room painted, most repair services charge a markup for materials. Some even charge an hourly fee for shopping for the supplies. If so, let your handyman know that you already have the material he will need to complete the job.

Protect Yourself

• Do sign a contract that is as specific as possible about the work to be done. Be sure it includes the price and as many details as possible. Request a copy for yourself.
• Do ask to see proof of insurance and license.
• Do keep your receipts from the project. Investments in your home can be deducted from your capital gain when you sell.
• Don't make a final payment until work is completed.

Go Green!

Here are a few tips to save ENERGY and MONEY: 

Use Compact Fluorescent Lighting - Install a Programmable Thermostat - Seal Air Leaks - Use Energy-Efficient Appliances - Recycle - Buy locally (cuts down on transportation costs) - Improve the thickness of your insulation - plant plants in your yard that are designed for your climate. If you are in a warm-weather climate, plant drought-tolerant trees, bushes, flowers and grass. Many people are opting to put down rocks in lieu of sod as well.