Ok so you bought a house and now you want to make it yours or it needs some repairs? Here’s some tips on how to do it well.
What do you want to do?
Is it a paint job or a full remodel? Building an addition or upgrading cabinets? It may seem obvious but what you want to do needs to be refined and focused. It sounds fun to say “Let’s redo the whole kitchen” but what does that really mean for your time and budget?
Are you going to do the work or someone else?
I know we’ve all seen instagram videos on re-doing your basement, but do you really know how to install electrical outlets and drywall? There’s no shame here. I worked construction after college and I know how. todo it all. I even finished my own basement over a years worth of weekends. But I’m done with that now with four kids. I need help! So I hired a general contractor to run the entire project. It costs more but I get my weekends back (and less headaches).
Determine if you want someone to run the entire project for you (a general contractor) who will hire (and pay) all the sub-contractors, purchase all the supplies, keep the project on task and ensure it’s done professionally at every stage. You pay the contractor (and they take a percentage of the cost). It’s the easiest way to run a project, especially for those who have not done it before, though it costs more than running the project yourself. Make sure they are licensed and insured.
Or you can be your own general contractor and hire out sub-contractors to do the individual jobs. Say you wanto to finish your basement. You would find and hire individual companies to do the various elements of your project: an electrician, a plumber, a framer, a drywall person, a painter, etc. This will save you overhead from paying a general contractor, but you will need to be able to speak the language of each of those sub-contractors and be able to pay them individually and keep them on schedule (and out of each other’s way).
Or of course, you watch a lot of youtube videos and do the work yourself!
Contractor Recommendations in the Foothills
General Contractors
John Orlando. Local Evergreen construction contractor. He did my basement soccer field. 303.913.4029
Crafted Space Co. Phillip Vaccarella lives in Evergreen and his kids go to school here. 303.859.4863 | CraftedSpaceCo.com
Ted of All Trades. They live by Marshdale soccer fields. 303-419-3947
www.tedofalltrades.com
Concrete
High Country Finishing. Hugh McDonald has been doing it for more than 30 years. concreteevergreen@gmail.com | 303.888.0699
Asphalt
Asphalt Artistry. Shane has been doing it for more than 30 years as well! www.asphaltartistryinc.com
Obtaining permits for your improvements
By far the most difficult thing about major improvements in your home is obtaining the appropriate permit from the county you live in. Not all improvements need permits (minor projects or upgrades that don’t involve changing the landscape of your home or moving walls, electric, plumbing, etc) but major projects do.
Depending on what county you are in, you would need to apply for permits and have various check-ins throughout the process.
For example, here’s Jefferson County’s process.
A general contractor would do all of this for you, or if you are running the project yourself you will need to ensure your permitting is up-to-date throughout the project.
Best home upgrades to improve your value
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels: These rooms remain focal points for buyers, and even minor updates like new countertops, fixtures, or energy-efficient appliances can add significant value.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades: With more buyers looking for sustainable and cost-effective living solutions, upgrading to energy-efficient windows, insulation, and smart home technology can make your home more attractive.
Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, and improving the exterior of your home with fresh paint, landscaping, or a new front door can increase its perceived value.
Additional Living Space: If possible, consider adding extra living space, such as finishing a basement or attic, or creating outdoor living areas like patios or decks.
When considering renovations, focus on projects that align with your local market and avoid over-improving beyond what your neighborhood can support. You don’t want to be a 6 bedroom mansion on a street with 2 bedroom bungalos.
Let’s get going
Real estate improvements in the mountains doesn’t have to be complicated. I can help you decide on how and what to do to your home to make it smooth process. Let’s go!
