How do you choose the Right One? Renovator, that is ‒ especially one in your area. 

First, before you go looking for the R.O., be confident in your decision. If you’re on the fence about whether to move or remodel, speak with a real estate agent who knows your community. Find out what your home’s resale value would be ‒ with and without the renovations you are considering. 

Then do some serious research. Find out as much as you can about the average price, scope of work, return on investment and material options for your project. Look at local renovators’ websites. View their portfolios. Read customer reviews. You will want to know that the people you are allowing into your home are going to do a great job, so check them out thoroughly before you begin.

Choose a renovator who carries the RenoMark® logo and study the benefits of RenoMark. Do this because it can be critical to the well-being of your renovation and to your peace of mind.

Be sure you understand that it is almost impossible to compare estimates, so take time to understand what you’re getting. Every estimate must be in writing. Does each estimate include descriptions of complete installation, finishing details, on-site supervision, quality materials, and warranty?

Get very clear descriptions about how your project will be created, from design through to selections, and during construction. 

Pay close attention to prospective contractors’ methods for scheduling, communication with your project team, and quality control.

Don’t count on a lower price. A lower price might look attractive, but it can cost you more in the long run if installation is not done properly or if low-quality materials are used.

Keep your long-term goals in mind. If you love your neighbourhood and can make the improvements you want to your home, the return on investment may not be as important. Your long-term lifestyle might be your priority.

Interview your renovator. Don’t be afraid to ask about his or her education, training, specialties, familiarity with local codes, and any references or issues with past clients. A true professional will appreciate any and all questions. 

Talk to neighbours who have recently completed a renovation. Ask them if they would recommend the firm they used. 

Ask each prospective renovator about their process and how they expect to get paid. Make sure a contractor knows you will not be paying in advance. Reputable professionals understand this. Discuss your payment schedule (and don’t even think about paying in cash). 

Know if they’re the right fit. Make sure your chosen company’s way of doing business fits with you and your family. Is finishing on time important? Is being on budget important? Will they help with selections if you need guidance? Is it okay if you do some parts of the renovation yourselves?

Make sure you “click”. Chemistry is so important! There’s no point in having an excellent renovator if you don’t get a good sense of how you’ll get along. You’ll be spending lots of time together, potentially for months. You’ll be in some tight spaces, especially if you’re living on-site during all the upheaval. Like any good marriage, honest, open and constant communication will be essential. You have to like each other.

Get it in writing. This is critical. If you use a RenoMark renovator, warranties, insurance, permits and all other fine details will be looked after and part of your contract. 

If you don’t use a RenoMark renovator, make sure your contractor is properly insured. Get their certificate of insurance (COI), and then verify it with the insurance company. Your renovator MUST carry the appropriate insurance or you could be liable for any accidents on your property. 

Ask how delays are handled because they do happen despite the best-planned timelines. What happens when materials are suddenly not available or bad weather gets in the way?

Keep a list of the contractors you are considering and notes about what you like or don’t like about them.

Sleep on it. Take your time. Read the fine print of the estimates you have received. Don’t let anyone pressure you into making a decision right away. This is a big event and a big investment, so take as long as you need to decide.