Popular home shows on TV can make a renovation appear effortless, making DIY extremely tempting, especially if you enjoy working on your home, or managing a tight budget. But the truth is, a successful renovation takes time, resources, and expertise to achieve the desired outcome.
Choosing to work with a professional renovator is a smart choice, for several reasons.
#1. Project management: Managing the various sub-trades (plumbing, electrical and so on), and knowing when to bring them in to the project, is essential to saving time and money. If the renovation disrupts your day-to-day living, or impacts the exterior of the home exposing you the elements (windows, doors, siding and roof), delays can become troublesome and costly.
#2. Trade connections: Having access to skilled workers can be a challenge as trades in Vancouver are in such high demand. Professional renovators come with established working relationships with the trades and sub-trades. Remember, carrying out plumbing, electrical and gas renovations all required licensed contractors by law and are definitely not for the DIY enthusiast.
#3. Contractor rates: Your professional renovator will have access to building supply contractor rates, often being able to pass on a savings to you.
#4. Building permits: Every municipality has permits which must be adhered too. More than just the cost of the permit, knowing the implications of the regulations will help to define the real cost of your renovation. What started out as a simple project may impact building code for wall structures, plumbing or electrical, impacting time and budget. Keep in mind that someone looking to buy your house in the future may ask about the renovation work and want verification that the work was done to code.
#5. Experienced eye: Renovating any existing structure will inevitably turn up surprises. The experienced renovator will bring solutions to renovation challenges.
Purchasing a home is one of the most expensive investments you will ever make, so protect yourself by working with a professional renovator who has the training, experience and resources to transform your space.
It’s a good idea to talk to a contractor as early on in the project as possible, and before you make a final decision. An experienced renovator may be able to suggest ways of reducing the cost of your project while still using professional services where you lack the time or skills.
Visit the GVHBA #HomeRenoPros exhibit at the Vancouver Home and Design Show, October 27–30 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West. It’s your opportunity to meet, talk to, and check out the work of many of GVHBA’s design/build teams. Come and meet the GVHBA team too! We look forward to seeing you at the show and helping you with your next renovation. For more information, go to www.gvhba.org/consumers/consumers_events.
