Author: Canadoo Admin

How to Choose the Best General Contractor for Your Home

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
How to Choose the Best General Contractor for Your Home

Home renovation or construction project can be the most daunting and overwhelming task to tackle. Choosing the best general contractor to handle your project is the most crucial decision you can make to ensure that the job is done professionally and on schedule. However, finding a professional general contractor who can breathe life into your vision can be challenging. So, how do you go about selecting the best contractor for your project? In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when hiring one.

1) Verify Credentials and License

The first step to finding a reliable general contractor is ensuring that they have a valid license. A licensee general contractor has the required training, knowledge, and experience to deliver on the job they have been contracted to do. Additionally, ensuring that the general contractor you are working with is licensed protects you from uninsured accidents or injuries that may occur on your property. Ask for their license number and contact the relevant authorities to verify their legality.

2) Experience and Expertise

Your ideal general contractor should have several years of experience working on similar projects to yours. They should also have specific expertise and not handle everything from roofing to plumbing. A specialized contractor will be most effective in delivering your project outcome. Check through the contractor’s website or portfolio to get an idea of the type of projects they have previously handled. You can also ask for references and their previous clients’ contacts to get an insight into their work.

3) Insurance Protection

Accidents and damages to property happen during construction projects. Therefore, your general contractor should have the necessary insurance covers to protect against such occurrences. Ensure that they have liability insurance and their workers’ compensation insurance to avoid incurring any liability for unforeseen events.

4) Communication

Construction projects involve several parties, including contractors, subcontractors, the homeowner, and the project managers. These parties should have clear channels of communication to ensure that the project runs smoothly and efficiently. Choose a general contractor that is available, approachable, and responsive to your inquiries. They should have the ability to communicate the progress of the project, have change-order procedures, and provide progress reports.

5) Pricing and Payment Terms

Choose a general contractor that offers a reasonable and detailed contract outlining the breakdown of cost and payment schedule. Some contractors may provide upfront quotes that do not cover everything that would be encountered during the project, resulting in hidden costs. Ensure that the contractor you hire offers transparent pricing, so ask them to give you an itemized list that includes materials and labor. Additionally, make sure that the payment terms are reasonable and provide for paying after completion of specific project milestones.

Choosing the best general contractor for your home construction or renovation project shouldn’t be a difficult task. By following the above essential factors to consider when hiring a general contractor, you can make an informed and satisfactory choice. Ensure that you conduct a background check and obtain references before hiring them. Consider checking with your local Building and Safety department to confirm permits for past work completed by the contractor. With these tips, your home renovation or construction project will be a success!

How Much Does a Full House Renovation Cost in Vancouver?

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
How Much Does a Full House Renovation Cost in Vancouver?

Undertaking a full house renovation is an exciting yet significant endeavor that can breathe new life into your home, enhance its functionality, and increase its value. However, one of the most common questions that homeowners in Vancouver ask is, “How much does a full house renovation cost?” The answer to this question is multifaceted, as the cost of a renovation project can vary widely based on several factors. In this blog post, we will explore the key considerations that influence the cost of a full house renovation in Vancouver, helping you gain a better understanding of the potential expenses involved.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Full House Renovation

1. **Size and Scope of the Project:** The size of your house and the extent of the renovation will play a crucial role in determining the overall cost. A larger house or a more extensive renovation involving multiple rooms, structural changes, or additions will naturally incur higher expenses.

2. **Materials and Finishes:** The quality of materials and finishes you choose will significantly impact the cost. High-end materials, such as hardwood flooring, premium cabinetry, and designer fixtures, will be more expensive than standard alternatives.

3. **Labor Costs:** Labor costs, including skilled tradespeople like carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and painters, are a significant part of the renovation budget. The complexity of the work and the local labor market conditions will influence these costs.

4. **Design and Architectural Services:** If your renovation project requires architectural and design services, such as creating detailed plans, obtaining permits, and ensuring compliance with building codes, these professional fees will contribute to the overall cost.

5. **Structural Changes:** If your renovation involves structural modifications like removing walls or adding load-bearing beams, the costs can rise due to the engineering expertise and additional construction work required.

6. **Permits and Fees:** Obtaining necessary permits from the local municipality is essential for any substantial renovation project. Permit fees can vary based on the scope of the project and the city’s regulations.

7. **Location:** The cost of living and construction in Vancouver can be relatively high compared to other regions. This can impact the cost of labor, materials, and services.

8. **Unforeseen Issues:** Renovation projects can sometimes uncover unexpected challenges, such as hidden structural problems or outdated electrical systems, which may require additional funds to address.

Estimating the Cost

While it’s challenging to provide an exact figure for a full house renovation in Vancouver, a rough estimate could range from $150 to $400 per square foot. This estimate includes both the high-end and more budget-conscious options. For a more accurate estimate, consider consulting with experienced contractors or design professionals who can assess your specific needs and provide a detailed breakdown of costs.

Tips for Budgeting and Planning

1. **Define Your Priorities:** Determine which areas of your house require the most attention and allocate your budget accordingly. This will help you focus on the most essential aspects of the renovation.

2. **Obtain Multiple Quotes:** Reach out to different contractors and obtain multiple quotes to compare prices and services. Remember that the lowest quote may not always be the best choice; consider the contractor’s reputation, experience, and past work.

3. **Allocate a Contingency Fund:** Set aside a contingency fund of around 10-20% of your total budget to account for unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process.

4. **Research and Plan:** Thoroughly research the materials, fixtures, and finishes you want for your renovation. Planning ahead can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly changes later.

Embarking on a full house renovation in Vancouver can be a transformative experience that enhances your living space and adds value to your property. While the cost of such a project can vary widely based on numerous factors, understanding the key considerations outlined in this blog post will help you approach your renovation with realistic expectations and effective budgeting. Remember that investing in a well-planned renovation can lead to a more comfortable and beautiful home for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.

Bathroom Renovations Ideas for 2023

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Bathroom Renovation Ideas for 2023

Bathroom renovations can be a costly and overwhelming task, but it can also be a lot of fun to bring your vision to life. Whether you want to add luxury touches to create a peaceful spa-like experience or need to update your outdated fixtures, there are lots of bathroom renovation ideas to help you achieve your desired look in 2023. Here, we’ll discuss the latest and most innovative bathroom renovation ideas for the new year.

Intelligent Toilets:

If you’re looking for a bathroom experience that’s modern and luxurious, you’ll love the intelligent toilet trend. Smart features in new toilets offer motion sensors, heated seats, and automatic cleaning, among other things. You can customize the temperature and preferred settings for your comfort. Some models even offer hands-free flushing.

Modern Vintage:

A popular trend that makes a comeback in 2023 is the modern vintage. That means combining a vintage aesthetic with modern features. Think of marble tables, freestanding tubs, and brass and bronze fixtures combined with a contemporary showerhead. Vintage flooring tile patterns are also back in style, offering a vintage yet modern look.

High-Tech Lighting:

The right lighting can quickly transform your bathroom into a relaxing oasis. In 2023, expect to see high-tech lighting incorporated into bathroom designs. Wall-mounted LED lighting fixtures or installed cabinets with built-in lighting brighten up your bathroom and make it look bigger and brighter. You may also combine different lighting techniques such as recessed ceiling lights, chandeliers, or pendant lighting.

Natural Elements:

Bring nature into your bathroom with natural materials like stone, wood, and plants. Use bamboo or wood panels to create a spa-like atmosphere. You can also create a green corner or a hanging succulent garden to make your bathroom more inviting.

Custom Storage:

Custom storage solutions in your bathroom can help bring order to the chaos and streamline your morning routine. Using pull-out drawers and hidden cabinets under the sink, you can hide clutter and store towels and toiletries in an organized fashion. A built-in cabinet or shelf might also work best against a wall to hold essentials.

A brand new year offers exciting opportunities to revamp your bathroom and transform it into a luxurious space with comfort and functionality in mind. From adding smart toilets, lighting features, and natural elements, to creating custom storage solutions and combining vintage with modern touches, there are numerous bathroom renovation trends that would make your space feel like a spa-like retreat in 2023. Don’t hesitate to incorporate a personal touch so that your bathroom renovation is an extension of your style and personality.

Top tips for kitchen renovations you need to know

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Top tips for kitchen renovations You Need to Know

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a home. It’s where we cook, eat, and gather with our family and friends. However, over time, it can start to look outdated and in need of a renovation. If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen, you may feel overwhelmed and not sure where to start. With so many decisions to make, it can be challenging to know what’s important. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tips for kitchen renovations to help guide you.

Plan your budget: One of the most crucial things to do when considering a kitchen renovation is to set a budget. This will help you decide on the materials and appliances you can afford and what changes you can make to the kitchen. You don’t want to find out halfway through your renovation that you have run out of funds. So, before you start, make sure you have a clear budget in mind.

Know the style you prefer: Next, it’s important to think about the design or style of your kitchen. Do you prefer a modern, minimalist look, or are you more drawn to a cozy, rustic style? Knowing the design you like will help you choose the right cabinets, countertops, and appliances that match your aesthetic. It’s also a good idea to look online or in magazines for inspiration.

Consider the layout: Another vital consideration is the layout of your kitchen. The layout will impact how you move around the room and can affect how functional it is. It’s a good idea to consult with a professional designer or contractor who can help you create the best layout for your space.

Focus on functionality: When renovating your kitchen, functionality should be a top priority. Consider how you use your kitchen and what your needs are. Do you need more counter space, or do you need additional storage? These requirements will help guide your renovation and will ensure that your kitchen is as functional as possible.

Invest in quality finishes: Lastly, it’s essential to invest in high-quality finishes that will stand the test of time. This includes durable countertops, reliable appliances, and long-lasting cabinets. These finishes will not only make your kitchen look beautiful but will also increase its value and lifespan.

Renovating your kitchen can be a challenging task, but with these tips in mind, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect. Remember to plan your budget, decide on the style you prefer, consider the layout, focus on functionality, and invest in quality finishes. With the right planning and execution, your kitchen renovation will turn out to be a success, and you’ll be enjoying your new space in no time.

How much should you spend on medical office renovation?

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Medical Office renovations in Vancouver

Medical office renovations have become increasingly popular over the years. With advancing technology and changing healthcare needs, it’s important for medical facilities to keep up with the times and provide a comfortable and efficient environment for patients and staff alike. Vancouver has seen a surge in medical office renovations, with many facilities opting for modern designs and state-of-the-art equipment to improve patient care and productivity. These renovations have not only enhanced the appearance of medical offices but have also created a better working environment for medical professionals. Overall, the trend towards renovation in Vancouver’s medical sector is a positive one, serving to improve the quality of care for patients and the working conditions for healthcare providers.

Medical office renovations can often be expensive, but it’s important to understand the breakdown of costs so that you can plan accordingly. A significant portion of the costs come from materials, such as flooring, countertops, and cabinets. Labor costs, including both skilled and unskilled workers, also add up quickly. In addition, there may be fees for permits and inspections, as well as costs associated with architectural and design services. It’s also important to budget for unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process. By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, you can ensure that your medical office renovation stays within your budget while still achieving your desired outcome.

a. Basic renovations

Basic renovations can greatly improve the aesthetic and functionality of a home. From installing new flooring to updating fixtures, there are endless possibilities to transform your living space. Not only can renovations enhance the look and feel of your home, but they can also increase its value. It’s important to carefully plan and budget for renovations, ensuring that they align with your personal style and needs as well as your financial goals. With the proper research and preparation, basic renovations can be a smart investment for any homeowner.

b. Customizations

Customizations allow individuals to tailor their experiences to their specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s adjusting the font size or changing the color scheme, customizations can enhance usability and accessibility. In the digital age, the ability to personalize technology has become increasingly important. For example, many companies now offer tone of voice customizations, allowing users to choose their preferred tone for voice assistants. Customizations don’t just benefit individuals, they also allow companies to stand out by providing unique options that cater to their target audience. Overall, customizations play a crucial role in creating a more inclusive and user-friendly world.

c. Furnishings and decor

Furnishings and decor play an important role in renovation projects. They are the elements that bring warmth, style, and personality to a space, making it feel inviting and comfortable. From furniture to accessories, each piece has the power to transform a room and reflect the taste of its inhabitants. Whether you prefer a minimalist or eclectic style, there are countless options available to fit your desired aesthetic. By choosing the right furnishings and decor, you have the ability to create a space that not only looks beautiful but also feels functional and cozy.

Tips for getting the most value out of your Medical Office Renovation Budget

When it comes to renovating your medical office, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the most value out of your budget. One of the first things you should do is prioritize your needs versus your wants. Focus on the essentials first, such as upgrading outdated equipment or addressing any safety concerns. Additionally, make sure to do your research to find the best deals on materials and furniture. You can also consider refurbishing or repurposing items that may still be in good condition but could use a new look. Lastly, be sure to work with experienced renovation company who can help you maximize your space and create a design that is both functional and visually pleasing. With these tips in mind, you can create a beautiful and efficient medical office without breaking the bank.

What can you expect when renovating a medical office.

When renovating a medical office, there are a few things you can expect. First and foremost, it is important to ensure that any renovations are compliant with the regulations and standards set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. This may require a bit of extra time and planning, but it is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of both patients and staff. Additionally, you can expect to work closely with contractors and designers to create a space that is functional, comfortable, and efficient. From updating equipment to improving the layout of the office, there are a variety of ways to modernize and streamline your medical facility. All in all, while there may be some challenges along the way, renovating your medical office can ultimately lead to a better experience for everyone involved.

The cost of complete medical office renovations in Vancouver, BC can vary greatly depending on the scope of work and additional customizations you would like to add. Nonetheless, it’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from qualified professionals and compare them before making any final decisions. Furthermore, with a tight budget, you’ll need to create a well-rounded plan that prioritizes what you want now, and keeps those extra details for later. If you do end up splurging on some luxurious items, make sure they’re worth the investment by choosing high-value furnishings and decor. And if you need some help getting started, there’s no shortage of amazing designers who specialize in medical office renovations – both experienced and novice – who are willing to assist in transforming your vision into reality! No matter what path you choose, with these tips and tricks in mind, we hope that your new medical office will be everything you dream it to be!

How to choose a renovation company in Vancouver, BC

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Tips for choosing a builder

There are many factors to consider when you are choosing a home renovation company. Some things that will affect your decision are, what kind of remodeling you want to do, how big your project is, and your budget. You might choose a company that specializes in a certain type of project, like roofing or exterior projects such as decks.

Alternatively, you may prefer a general contractor who can manage all types of projects. However, there are countless contractors in and around Vancouver, BC. How do you know that you have found a trustworthy and reliable renovation company? Let’s talk about some questions you can ask, and things you can look for, to choose the right renovation company for you.

First of all, you can start by defining what you need. After all, not all Vancouver renovation companies offer the same services. If you have a project that is really specific, like just renovating a bathroom, you might want to hire a contractor who specializes in that service. However, if you are redoing a condo or house, you may want a general contractor who can manage the whole project and subcontract out to other companies as needed.

Secondly, it’s important to choose a company that you feel like you can trust.

Here’s a hot tip: a genuine professional will point out places where you can save money or improve your plans. They will be invested in you having a home you love, not just in getting their money out of you. Also, they should be willing to disagree with you and point out if they think you are making a mistake!

Here’s an important part of the hiring process that is easy to overlook: checking out their paperwork. Reputable, reliable renovation companies will be able to demonstrate the following:

  • Professional Association Memberships
  • Licenses and Insurance
  • Warranties

Legitimate Vancouver renovation companies will be members of trade organizations such as the Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association and the Canadian Home Builders Association. This means, they have committed to obey a Code of Ethics and to be accountable to a larger organization. Trade organizations count on their good reputation, and companies that violate their standards won’t keep their membership. If a company has been around for a while, and has been a member of these professional organizations for a while, that points to good business practices.

Furthermore, a trustworthy Vancouver contractor will be licensed to provide services, and will also have insurance to cover any errors or damages on their end. Ask for, and check out, your company’s license and insurance information. A warranty policy also falls under this idea. Your renovation company should offer a warranty on the work they do, in writing and as part of your contract. (By the way – you need a contract!) This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their work.

There are many renovation companies to choose from in Vancouver. If you hold a high standard for your contractor’s legitimacy – that means, good reviews and they check out on paper – then you will be able to narrow your choices and count on an excellent renovation project.

Checklist for Replacing Your Deck

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  • Checklist for Replacing Your Deck

If your house has a deck, you are probably aware of how important that outside space is for your enjoyment of your home. A deck is a wonderful place to spend a sunny day, or entertain friends and family on a warm evening. However, because your deck is outside, it gets exposed to much more wear and tear than the inside of your home. Poor weather, sunlight, and temperature changes all affect your deck and can cause it to look shabby, or even develop dangerous weaknesses. With that in mind, we’re going to look at three things:

  • Basic maintenance to keep your deck safe and looking good
  • How to know when you need to replace your deck
  • What you need to do to prepare for replacing your deck

Basic maintenance and inspections

Let’s begin with a thorough checklist for inspecting and maintaining your deck. This should be done seasonally, as changes in temperature and the daily weather will cause damage to your deck throughout the year. During your inspection, you are looking for a few key issues: corrosion, cracks, and rot.  These are all problems that lead to safety issues for your deck.

  • Corrosion can make metal pieces weak, and they might eventually fail. It can also be a sign too much water is getting into an area.
  • Cracks can form where wood or other materials are stressed over time; make sure to be especially thorough when you check stairs, railings, and structural beams. Cracks often start to form around nail or screw heads, or knots or other weak spots in the lumber.
  • Rot causes wood to get progressively weaker, until it is no longer able to stand up to stress. If you notice nails are coming loose and working themselves out of a piece of wood, inspect that piece for rot. If you can push a screwdriver with relative ease into any wood, especially if it will go in a centimeter or more, you should replace that piece of wood. Areas of high moisture, such as where posts are close to the ground, are at high risk of rot.

Before you start to make any repairs to your deck, follow this inspection checklist:

  1. Inspect the underside of your deck: Using a flashlight, look at the underside of the deck. Make sure to check the metal flashing that attaches your deck to your home. Look for signs of water damage where your deck connects to your house.
  2. Check the joists, posts and beams: After you check the underside, check the structural parts of your deck, especially the ones out of sight. Look for signs of rot on posts and joists and check all the hardware, making note of what’s seriously rusted and needs to be replaced. Most importantly, check the bottoms of the posts where they meet the ground, and make sure there is no sign of decay in the wood; this is an area where moisture from the ground can cause a lot of problems.
  3. Check the surface: Inspect for cracks, rotting deck boards or protruding nails. Walk around the surface of the deck to listen for squeaks. Feel for soft spots or sagging areas and make note of any cracks or loose nails that need repair.
  4. Inspect the railing and stairs: Make sure your railings are sturdy, with no loose posts or slats. Inspect any stairs leading to the deck to make sure there are no loose, damaged or rotting stairs that need to be replaced.
  5. Hot tubs/jacuzzis: If you have a hot tub/jacuzzi, make sure you have inspected its area of the deck very well, and that you are also inspecting and maintaining the hot tub regularly . A hot tub is heavy! It can be dangerous if the deck underneath it is damaged. Furthermore, a leaky hot tub can cause rot from water constantly seeping into the wood around it.

Once you’ve done your inspection, you’ll need to assess if you can do repairs and maintenance to your deck, or if there are any more serious problems that mean it needs to be replaced. If the deck is in good shape, you should do the following maintenance:

  1. Replace any rotten wood and corroded metal fixtures
  2. Fix loose nails and other fasteners
  3. Clean and stain your deck – power washing can remove dirt, mold and plant growth, and insects, and regularly staining and sealing the deck is the best way to protect wood from sun and moisture.
  4. Prepare for seasonal changes – for example, if you get snow in the winter, it’s a good idea to lay a tarp over the surface of your deck to protect it from standing moisture, and/or clear the deck regularly.

Planning to replace the deck

What if, during your inspection, you realize that your deck is starting to have too much wear and tear, and it needs to be replaced? Or alternatively, it’s no longer meeting your needs and you want to upgrade it? Replacing a deck is a relatively straightforward job, but it does count as construction on your home and there are rules and standards that need to be followed. We always advise hiring a qualified contractor to do big projects such as deck replacements, but this is also a common DIY project. However you choose to proceed, make sure you plan for the following:

  • Get a building permit: Decks fall under building codes and bylaws, and you need to get a permit for the work before you start. If you don’t, you might be forced to stop work and face fines.
  • Obey building codes: A qualified contractor will always stick to building codes when designing and building your deck. Be prepared to pay for a building inspector to come and check the deck when it is finished.
  • Use the right materials: Make sure all of the lumber, fasteners, stains, and other materials being used are designed for outside use, meaning they will resist corrosion and rot better.
  • Block off the deck access: once the old deck has been removed, there is a risk of people accidentally falling from the patio door. Make sure this door is locked and secured for safety.

A deck is a wonderful feature for a family home. With care, yours can have a long useful life. Or, you can replace it with the deck of your dreams!

How Much Does it Cost to Renovate a Whole House in Vancouver?

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How much does it cost to renovate a whole house in Vancouver?

Are you thinking of selling your home, and you want to increase its value? Have you recently bought an older house that needs work? Have you been in your home for a long time, and want to update it? Do you have an investment property that you want to add value to? If you have said yes to any of these situations, you are probably thinking about renovating your house.

If you are hoping to renovate your home, it can be hard to know where to start when making plans. You are probably trying to get a rough idea of how much your renovation might cost, as a place to start. Unfortunately, it’s hard to really get a good idea of the expected costs without getting a quote from a general contractor. However, here we can discuss some general costs and ballpark numbers, so that you can have something to work with at this stage of planning. While renovating a whole house in Vancouver isn’t a cheap project, it will add value to your property, and make it more liveable for you as well. So, let’s look at some of the factors to consider.

All at once or room by room?

First of all, what is the scope of your project? Are you just interested in redoing a few rooms? Or, are you planning to make significant changes or even gut the whole house? If you are planning a lot of changes, there are pros and cons to doing the work room by room, or getting the whole house renovated at once.

Some of the advantages of doing renovations room-by-room are:

  • You can likely stay living in the house for much of the work
  • You can spread the upfront costs out over longer periods of time
  • You have time to make decisions on future projects and can see how the current project goes before taking the next step
  • You can more easily “DIY” some parts of the project without getting in the way of a contractor

Some disadvantages are:

  • Going room by room can stretch renovating over months or years. It can feel like you are renovating forever!
  • It’s likely your labour and materials costs will be at least somewhat higher than if you did everything at once
  • You won’t be able to make significant changes to layouts

Some advantages of renovating your whole house at once are:

  • You can completely rethink the layout of your house and make big changes
  • You may be able to save money on labour and materials by completing the whole project in one go
  • It will be done much faster over all

Some disadvantages are:

  • Your upfront costs will be much higher and you may have to borrow a lot more money
  • You will probably not be able to live in the house and will need to budget for other living arrangements
  • Very large renovation projects can take an emotional toll on a homeowner

If you have a large project in mind, it’s important to get quotes from several contractors to assess the expected costs for what you want to do. You can ask them to assess for “everything at once” or for the cost room by room.

House renovation costs in Vancouver

Now, as we said before, it’s hard to guess how much a home renovation project is going to cost. Especially in Vancouver, housing prices and values change quickly, and there can be a lot of competition for good contractors. Therefore, take the following information as a guideline only, to help you guess at costs.

Whole house renovations

Currently in BC, the average homeowner is spending $15-$60 per square foot on whole house renovations. However, this cost accounts for more low to midrange renovations, which generally means budget-friendly appliances and materials, and doesn’t include overhauls on more than a few rooms. People usually prioritize the kitchen and the bathrooms, and do more cosmetic work on the rest of the house, such as paint and flooring.

If you are hoping to gut your house down to the studs and do major renovations, include new roofing or exterior work, or use higher end materials and appliances, you are likely looking at a renovation that will cost you between $100,000 and $200,000 dollars. That can be an intimidating figure! However, if it adds significant value to your home, it can be worth it.

Also be aware that significant problems such as a damaged foundation, asbestos, or severe fire or flood damage will increase the costs of renovations greatly.

Finally, the amounts above assume that you are hiring a contractor to do your renovations. While you may be able to complete some renovations yourself, we strongly recommend hiring a qualified general contractor for your work. They will work faster than you and take care of details like ordering materials and getting permits, and they often can get materials at a better price. Furthermore, you will be confident that your work is up to code, and there will be a warranty on the work in case of problems down the road.

High value rooms

If you are planning on doing just parts of the work now, you may be curious about what the most expensive rooms are to renovate. Unsurprisingly, kitchens and bathrooms usually cost the most to renovate, but also will add a lot of value to your house if done well. In Vancouver, the housing market is very volatile, so having a modern, desirable home is a good idea. As a rough guess, experts suggest that you plan to invest 5-15% of your home’s value into your kitchen and bathroom renovations. Currently, houses in Vancouver are have extremely high property values, so this worth double checking with a contractor, but it’s also a very good idea to over-estimate your budget. You don’t want to be surprised by extra costs when you can’t afford it.

Renovations are rarely cheap and rarely easy. However, it’s worth it to live in a home that feels like it’s just right for you and your family, or to know that you are getting the best value for your investment. Take time to plan your projects, and take your questions to your local home renovation experts.

Home Renovation Checklist

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Home Renovation Checklist

A home renovation is a big project, and sometimes the hardest part is knowing how to get started. Therefore, we’ve put together a home renovation checklist for you to follow as you plan your renovation. By following each step, you can be confident that you will not get too many surprises along the way.

Step one: Set your goals and your budget.

To begin, you should get an idea of what you want to get done and how much you want to spend. This is a time for a bit of research, to see what other people might be spending on a similar project, so you don’t end up with unrealistic expectations.

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • why do I want to do this renovation? (For example: I am trying to increase the value of my home; my bathroom needs new fixtures)
  • what problems need to be solved? (For example: the bathroom only has a shower and I want a tub)

Step two: Decide on your priorities.

In any renovation project, there are some things that MUST happen in order for the renovation to be successful, and there are other things that would be nice to have, but you can let them go if you run out of money or time. For this reason, an important part of your checklist is a list of the “musts” and the “maybes”. For example, in a bathroom renovation, you might decide that the top priority is to replace the shower and the toilet, while replacing the light fixtures can wait if some unexpected costs come up. 

Step three: Choose your contractor.

Next, you want to hire your renovation team. There are many good resources online to help you choose a general contractor, so we won’t go into it in too much detail here. However, this is a very important decision to make, so don’t be afraid to ask for quotes from several companies, and make sure the team you choose is qualified to do, or manage, ALL of the work you need done. 

Step four: Write up your contract.

Your contractor will be in charge of making the actual contract, but, since you are following a handy home renovation checklist, you know that you want the following things included in the contract:

  • a communication plan (how you will check in, and how frequently
  • budget and payment schedules, including a cushion for unexpected costs (ideally 10-20%)
  • details about permits, insurance, and what will happen if something goes wrong
  • a plan for the post-renovation inspection and adjustments (once you have lived in the space again, you may notice a needed change)
  • projected timeline – when you expect the renovation to start and end

Step five: prepare for the project start.

If you are renovating your home, you must take time to figure out how the renovation will impact your day-to-day life. For example, if your kitchen is being completely overhauled, you might decide to move out for a few weeks so that you don’t have to live without a kitchen! In a nutshell, prepare yourself for the disruption of the renovation and do some planning to make things go as smoothly as possible.

You did it! Once you work to the end of this list, you should be ready to start your renovation project. 

Tips for Choosing a Builder

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Tips for choosing a builder

Tips for choosing a builder in Vancouver, BC

When you are planning a home improvement project, choosing your builder can be the most important choice you make. Therefore, you may be feeling some stress about this decision. What are the most important things to think about when hiring a builder? There are many different details that might affect your choice. Here are a few tips to help you make this decision easier.

  1. Start with a solid plan.

Even the best contractor can’t give you a good quote without details. If you want to get a good idea of what your project will really cost, don’t start to meet with builders until you have a plan for your project. This can include drawings and details that are important to you. Basically, the more information you can give to a builder, the more accurate the quote will be.

  1. Know if you need a generalist or a specialist

Depending on your project, you may want to hire a general contractor to plan and do all of the work, or you may just want to hire a specialist for a clear task. For example, if you just need a brick patio laid into the ground your yard, you may want to hire a mason instead of a general builder. Remember, though, that many general builders can do a wide range of tasks well. More importantly, they can also hire and manage those specialists for you, as part of their overall plan.

  1. Get a few quotes

Each different builder or contractor will have a different plan for your home renovation project. Therefore, getting more than one quote will let you choose the price and the plan that works best for you. You can also then ask questions about certain details of a plan, so that you understand it better or can help the builder understand your vision.

  1. Get everything in writing

Don’t start any work without a signed contract. Even if your project is small, you will prevent a lot of headaches by writing down, ahead of time, what to do if problems come up. It’s also a good idea to discuss how often you will be updated, who is responsible for permits, and to talk about and agree on insurance.

  1. Once you’ve chosen a builder, trust them!

You are choosing a contractor who you think will be able to manage and complete your project. So, don’t try to be too involved! It is the builder’s job to oversee the work and communicate to you about it. They can do their job better if you aren’t in the way. Sit back, relax, and trust in your good decisions.

Choosing the right builder is probably the most important part of your home renovation project. Indeed, it can make or break your project. However, it doesn’t have to be a hard or scary choice if you follow the tips above. With some planning and research, you shouldn’t have to worry about your projects success.