homeimprovementinfo's Journal: What Do You Need to Consider For a Home Makeover?

When you first start thinking about home renovations Toronto, you know you will probably need a general contractor Toronto , but you are not sure what else. Yes, you have a vision, but how do you put that together with your budget, materials, time constraints, and choosing a contractor company Toronto?

Choosing a Design

Look at magazines that feature different homes. Look at the spaces that need a makeover, and start visualizing how you want them to change. Collect pictures from magazines and the internet that show what you want. You may have a budget, but at this point, you are just dreaming, so do not limit yourself. When you have an idea of what you want, then talk to different contractors and tailor it to your budget.

Selecting a General Contractor Toronto

It might seem hard finding the right contractor company, but it is not. There are a few things you can do to make sure you get a reputable company.

- If you know someone who has recently had their home remodeled, you can talk to them about the general contractor they hired and what they thought.

- Make sure they provide you with documents that prove they are properly licensed and insured. They should give you copies of their insurance certificate, their Toronto contractors certification, and the status of their workers compensation.

- Check at least three references. The references you will get will probably be from people who liked the general contractors work. Make sure you ask questions to get a feel for the kind of work they did. Also check for any complaints against the company.

- Get estimates for the work you want done, and make sure you get them in writing. Get them from at least three companies.

Considering Your Budget

How much can you afford to spend on a general contractor Toronto? How much will it cost to remodel your home the way you want? If your budget and your projected renovation costs do not match, there are some ways to cut costs.

- Hire a Specialist. If you only need some specialized work done, like painting, or new cabinets, it is better to get someone who specializes in the work you need done.

- Tax Credit. Certain home renovations, including new air conditioners or furnaces, improving your driveway or garage, and so on may qualify for Canada Tax Credit. This is a great way to save a few thousand dollars.

- Limit Major Renovations. Do not move walls, plumbing or wiring if at all possible.

- Try Cheaper Materials. If you want hardwood floors, but there is no way you can afford them, try engineered hardwood flooring. There are many cheaper, but still attractive replacements for most materials.

Experienced General Contractor Toronto Benefits.

If you hire a general contractor that has had a lot of experience renovating homes, like the guys at http://www.m2contracting.com, you are much more assured that you will get your remodel done with fewer disappointments. An experience contractor will be able to give you a pretty exact estimate how long it will take for your home makeover. He can give you a breakdown of how long each step in the process will take, from lighting and electrical to plumbing, walls, floors, cabinetry, and so on.