I need to have some work done on my home. Can you give me an estimate?
The first step is to talk to Mitch Speck, senior consultant and project manager, who will discuss with you the scope of your project and set up a complementary meeting at your home. Mitch will then present a “ballpark” budget based upon your needs. If he feels like you may be a good candidate for design-build, he will suggest a follow-up meeting with you and an opportunity to meet with our lead spatial planner, Debbie Speck.
Our house needs repairs, renovations and an addition. How do we approach our project?
We can help you determine your priorities and tackle your project in phases. We can take care of the repairs early on, since there may not be a need for architectural services. The more design-intense renovations and additions can be done in a second phase as a design-build project.
What does design-build mean?
Design-build is an integrated process of design and construction from conception to finished project. The design effort starts with an interview to discuss your ideas and how you will use your new spaces. Soon after, a design concept is presented to you along with a preliminary budget. You will be included in every step of the design until the final drawings and material specifications are completed. With the design and specifications completed we will provide a firm price contract to complete your renovation.
What if I can’t decide whether to remodel, move or build a new home?
For substantial renovation projects, this is a fundamental question. The cost of comprehensive renovations can approach or exceed the cost of a new home. This is where Specktacular Home Remodeling can help you by creating preliminary budgets and providing design guidance.
How long will it take to complete my project?
Every project varies depending upon the scope of work. Repairs can usually be done in a matter of days or weeks. Small projects with limited design will take 2-8 weeks. Most medium-size projects take 2-6 months including design and construction. Large renovations/additions usually take 1-3 months of design and 6-10 months of construction. Sometimes, large projects can be fast tracked if there is a special need.
I want to get started right away. Can we just start now and design as we go?
We do not recommend working through design issues during construction. We prefer to use fixed price contracts that are based on specific parameters. Too many times, we hear examples where homeowners are subject to increased project costs because of decisions not made and conditions not anticipated prior to starting their project. Over the years, we have learned that the best practice is to allow proper time for design, prior to construction.
What kind of contract will I be asked to commit to for a design-build project?
For design-build projects, we start with a separate design contract. Architectural, engineering and geo-tech fees are typically included in this contract when necessary. Prior to construction we will prepare a fixed price contract. Our fixed price contract is determined by figuring the hard costs of the labor and materials and adding a markup (our overhead and profit).
What kind of contracts will I be asked to commit to for a project with limited or no design?
For smaller projects, prior to construction, we will prepare a fixed price contract. Our fixed price contract is determined by confirming the project parameters and specifications followed by figuring the hard costs of the labor and materials and adding a markup (our overhead and profit).
There are so many decisions to make regarding design and material selections. How do I narrow down my choices to fit my budget?
Mitch & Debbie will assist and guide you through product selection, showing you samples, referring you to appropriate suppliers and listening to your budget and style needs. Often, we recommend the use of an interior designer for professional assistance in making color and finish selections.
Do you use your own crews on projects or do you use subcontractors?
We typically perform framing, site demolition, repairs, painting, trim/finish carpentry, cabinet installation and cleanup. Electrical, plumbing, air conditioning and heating work are subcontracted due to the special licensing requirements. Most of our specialized trade contractors have worked with us for several years. We have strong relationships with them and they will treat you and your home with respect. Among our trade contractors are those that specialize in granite and marble, ceramic and porcelain tile, painting, custom cabinetry, concrete, drywall, faux painting, ornamental iron and others. As part of our service, we will match the appropriate specialist to your project.
Will my project require custom cabinets?
Once we have designed your renovation to fit your budget you will get the choice of using custom and/or semi-custom cabinetry. Specktacular Home Remodeling is an authorized dealer for Cabinetry by Karman. Karman has several standard product lines with multiple wood species, door styles, colors, sizes and options at very competitive prices. Another advantage with Karman is that our cabinets are fully customizable. Basically, if we can design it, they can build it!
Do you have contacts with people who assist in financing?
We have sound relationships with area lenders that we can put you into contact with. If you already have a lender, we can work with them to solidify a payment schedule for your project.
Some contractors want 1/3 to 1/2 of the contract money up front. What does your typical payment schedule look like?
You work hard for your money. We do too. Our intention is to not take too much money out of your account before we need it while making sure that we keep our obligations met. Included in our contract will be a very specific payment schedule tied to measurable milestones of your remodel. Typically we will have a small down payment due at contract signing and progress payments throughout your renovation. Examples of measurable milestones may include “at initiation of drywall installation” and “upon delivery of the cabinetry to your home.” Basically, we want to make the payment schedule specific so both parties can agree when it is time for the next payment.
What area of town do you work in?
With our business located in Sandy, we prefer to work east of Portland. Our service area includes Sandy, Gresham, Damascus, Happy Valley, Clackamas, Boring, Eagle Creek, Welches, and the mountain communities.
Why should I hire Specktacular Home Remodeling when I can get the same thing for less elsewhere?
Will you really be getting the “same thing?” Price should not be the only factor in choosing a contractor. Often a low price is a red flag and should be a cause for concern. Specktacular Home Remodeling (SHR) has been in business for over 19 years. Debbie and Mitch are nationally certified by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and we maintain an “A+” rating with the Better Business Bureau. We choose our trade and subcontractors carefully, ensuring they share our vision for quality, work ethic and high customer service. Ask to see our portfolio or visit some of our recent projects. Call our references and ask questions. We believe exceptional design and construction are essential when it comes to improving your home — which is, after all, your most important asset.
What is NARI / Oregon Remodelers Association?
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the only independent national association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. Oregon Remodelers Association is the local chapter of NARI. Specktacular Home Remodeling is a proud member of NARI and Oregon Remodelers Association.
Why should I choose a NARI member?
NARI Members meet the association’s stringent criteria for experience. NARI members also pledge a commitment to high standards of practice and NARI’s Code of Ethics.
How many estimates should I get for a remodeling project?
You can go about the process in different ways. Conventional wisdom dictates three estimates for any remodeling work you are going to have done. However, if a home improvement contractor comes highly recommended by a trusted source, you have met and talked with the contractor and feel comfortable working with him or her, getting additional estimates may not be necessary.
Should I plan more money than the contract price?
Additional work or a change in the project’s scope of work requested by the remodeling homeowner will usually require a contract price change. Planning for the unforeseen or putting aside some extra money for a upgrade can help make a less stressful remodel.
What can I expect to do while a remodeling project is being done in my home?
Most importantly, keep the lines of communication open between you and the remodeling contractor. Ask questions. Let them know what your family schedule is and whether you have pets confined somewhere. It’s important to keep the work areas off limits to children and pets for their safety. You may have a little extra dust and dirt in your house during this time as well, so keeping the work area off limits, as much as possible, will avoid tracking the dust to other parts of the house.
Does Specktacular Home Remodeling work in Washington?
At this time, we have chosen not to remodel in the state of Washington.
What if my question is not listed here?
Please contact us via email, phone, fax or regular mail with any other questions.
