New Decade, New Addition

A new year often encourages us to make promises and resolutions to ourselves or amongst family and friends. 2020 is here and many have considered the new decade a fresh start. For some, it might be to eat healthier, exercise more or to quit smoking. We have to ask… Have you resolved to quit putting off your renovation plans in 2020 and take action?

Here are a few things you’ll need to know if you’re considering a major renovation or addition this year.

#1. Research. Research. Research.
Do the leg work up front. Get to know your potential contractor. Will you need a permit for this job? Is the type of work you’d like completed allowable within your municipality? If you’re unsure, ask us lots of questions.

#2. Be realistic with your needs, wants, and budget.
How extensive is the work ahead? If it requires permit it will also require a set of BCIN drawings. Will you be able to live through this renovation or will you need to find a short term rental? Have you considered how you would like to finish your space or outlined what is a need vs. what is a “nice to have?” Most important: Have you considered a realistic budget that you are comfortable spending to complete the work? We can help with that! At Catalyst, we have developed a unique Design-Build process to guide you through the most important planning phases before project kick off. This provides clarity and transparency. It includes an audit of your renovation goals, permit ready drawings (if applicable) and a formal quote to eliminate scope creep.

#3. Timelines are HUGELY important.
The worst thing you can do is underestimate the amount of planning and research that goes into a properly executed project. Ask yourself: When do I envision myself in this newly finished space? On average, a small bathroom renovation can take 3-4 weeks of planning. For a major renovation or addition this timeline can double. Note that these are general timelines that can shift project-to-project but can be used as general averages. Essentially, if you’re hoping renovate in the Spring or Summer you should be in touch with a contractor, like Catalyst, right now. Once we’ve determined key items such as scope of work and a budget with you we will determine a realistic timeline to complete the work. For a small bathroom renovation this could be 3-4 weeks. A major renovation or addition could take 3-5 months. Don’t be disappointed, reach out to us sooner rather than later!

#4. We are your advocates.
By hiring Catalyst, you’re ensuring that we go to bat for you. Our Design-Build process is proven to work amongst our clients. We support you every step of the way from planning to production. We continually train our crew on new techniques, technologies, and products, and we are committed to staying up-to-date with changes in the renovation industry. We invest to stay current and have implemented a cloud-based construction software system that tracks all of your projects in real time – plus, all homeowners have online access to view the status of their projects in real-time from their smartphone!

Keeping these factors in mind will ensure a smooth planning process for you, the homeowner. We strive to inform and guide our clients when making these kinds of decisions for your home and your family to protect your investment. There’s nothing we love more than a happy client when we hand back the keys! It’s a big part of who we are. We look forward to working with you.

New Decade | New Addition
Article by: Sara Collins
Lead Designer, Catalyst General Contracting