Kyla Brooke
Kyla Brooke, Vanguard PropertiesPhone: (707) 481-0098
Email: [email protected]

Hiring a home remodel contractor

by Kyla Brooke 09/13/2023

Photo of professionals shaking hands

While designing a house from scratch usually requires professional help, it's not always clear if you need a remodel contractor. If you have a remodeling project you plan to handle on your own, is it necessary to hire somebody to help? Here are some of the key points to consider when it comes to remodeling contractors:

What's the difference between a renovation and a remodel?

Renovation refers to a project meant to restore or enhance an existing structure or feature. A remodel, however, usually involves building or adding something entirely new.

What does a full remodel include?

Remodeling is usually done to change the function or design of a space. This may be done by removing walls in bathrooms or by transforming a kitchen's layout so cabinets and sinks have different locations. If you make significant changes to multiple rooms in the home, you can consider it a full home remodel.

Do I need a contractor to remodel my house?

A remodeling contractor usually has architectural training as well as experience in remodeling. They will serve as your liaison to coordinate hiring labor, ordering materials, obtaining applicable building permits and working within your budget and deadlines.

How do I find local contractors?

If you've decided to hire a contractor, the next question might be: How do I find the right one? Some great ways to find an excellent contractor include:

  • Asking friends or colleagues for personal recommendations.
  • Asking your real estate agent for professional connections.
  • Searching online for reviews in your local area.

What should I look for in a renovation contract?

A home remodeling contractor will draw up a contract for you and your proposed job. These contracts include the pertinent details of your partnership, including:

  • License numbers and liability insurance information.
  • A clear list of requested changes or tasks.
  • Protocol for access to job site.
  • Budget and timeframe.
  • Payment schedule.

These are only a few things you'll find on a remodeling contract, but a reputable contractor will go through every piece of the document to make sure everybody understands expectations.

In addition to handling important details like finding quality materials and obtaining all the necessary permits, a general contractor will help give you peace of mind about your project. Keep these factors in mind when putting together the details of your next home improvement adventure.

About the Author
Author

Kyla Brooke

With a passion for real estate, my background as a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, successful real estate investor, property manager for my own real estate ventures, business owner, educator, and strategic planner brings you:
  • Excellent listening, communication, and negotiating skills
  • Ability to clarify goals and issues.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills.
  • Management & marketing skills, with attention to the big picture and to the details.
  • Knowledge of houses, both funky and fine.
  • Knowledge of the housing market, both locally and nationally.
  • Patience and humor.
Why work with me:   
  • Support in clarifying and achieving your real estate goals.  
  • Consistent sales record in both appreciating and downturn markets.
  • One of the Top 5 Producing Agents in the Russian River, 2022-2012, A Vanguard Top Producer in Sonoma County 2022-2014.
  • Member of Top Agents Network (Requires being in the top 10% of Market Share).
  • A Team of Real Estate & Construction Professionals to make your transactions easier. 
  • Ease in transactions and step-by-step support throughout the buying and selling process and     
  •                beyond.
  • Knowledge of real estate in the Russian River, Sonoma County & knowledge of national markets.
  • Investment and property management experience in the Russian River area.
  • Best tools for creating custom marketing for you and your property needs for both sellers and buyers.
  • Amazing negotiating skills.
I love Sonoma County and the Russian River area. With a long-term interest in affordable housing and in improving the quality of people’s lives, I am actively involved on a community level in social and cultural issues, in life transitions, and in issues related to aging. My life work is about making sure that you can have the greatest quality of life possible. I have sold the Blue Heron, The Pink Elephant & Patterson Point Preserve. This involved creating a grant with Sonoma County Agricultural & Open Space District and devising a loan plan for individuals in the community to provide the additional funds necessary to purchase this exceptional property. I am a creative thinker and am able to market and sell properties of many kinds. I also have worked on issues relating to water, septics, and riparian habitat in the Russian River area on both the county and state levels. Adventurous, curious, and open-minded with a background in trauma and disaster mental health, I work predominantly by referral, which means that I spend time making sure that you receive excellent care. I am NEVER too busy for you and for your referrals, and know how to go the extra mile for you. Now, let’s get down to business!