"Amanda was really very good! At first I was very skeptical, thinking why did I pay money to just speak with someone on the phone about my kitchen remodel project... but after just a few minutes of her addressing some of the issues/questions I emailed to her earlier, I knew it was worth it. It was very clear that she knew her business and she gave me several ideas that I had not even thought about. I told her that I would definitely recommend her to friends and I will very likely use her again myself for my next home project!
It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.
Since DIYing a basement remodel isn't typically advised, there are some ways that you can still save money on this project without putting yourself in danger. Some ways to save money on a basement remodel include:
Painting walls yourself versus including in the cost of the remodel
Installing light fixtures yourself
Choosing prefabricated fixtures, like cabinets, over custom ones
Choosing a budget-friendly flooring option, like laminate or vinyl flooring, and add rugs where necessary
Some older homes have toilets in the basement to combat sewage backups. This type of toilet, also known as a Pittsburgh potty, acted as a safety valve over the incoming sewer line. If a line backed up, it would back up into the toilet because it was the lowest fixture in the home, keeping it out of sight and away from the finished areas of the house.
Basement toilets were also used by workers with messy jobs, like those who worked in coal mines or steel mills. This way, they could clean up and avoid tracking dirt through their home.
Lifting a house and adding a basement is one way to add usable square footage. Lifting or jacking a house is a complex process, and it can be expensive, not to mention that you won’t be able to live in your house while it’s lifted, due to safety concerns. Lifting a house should only be done by experienced professionals.
Key trends include home gyms, theatre rooms, additional rooms (bedroom/office), and more, with personalized styles reflecting individual preferences.
The Beowawe, NV homeowners’ guide to basement remodels
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
Hiring a bad basement remodeler can wreak havoc on the look and longevity of your unfinished space. Here are red flags to look for as you vet basement contractors.
