Home Renovation Service in Paradise Valley [Hiring Checklist]

Hiring a contractor for your home improvement projects can be a tall order. You want someone who is skilled, efficient, and reasonably priced. These may all seem like reasonable feats to manage but every contractor is not created equal. Selecting a contractor has a lot to do with your needs, schedule, and personality. You need someone who is willing to accommodate you as much as possible. You also need a contractor that listens to your ideas while being honest about their capabilities. In this article you will learn more about home renovation service in Paradise Valley and how selecting the right contractor makes all the difference.

Check Experience

Experience is the best teacher for a reason. There are a lot of factors that go into home improvement and many unsuspected problems can occur. Someone that is skilled and adept at handling issues can save you a lifetime of trouble.

The best way to check a contractor’s experience is to find out about their home improvement certifications. There are certain certifications that contractors can obtain that show they are trained in certain skills, such as a certified graduate remodeler (CGR), membership with the Building Industry Association (BIA), and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) are just a few examples to think about when checking out the experience and qualifications of your contractor.

A good contractor will be transparent about their credentials and eager to inform you about them. You can check their website to find out more about their credentials or you may see the certificates hanging in their store or office. This is the first sign that the contractor is experienced and ready for the job.

Ask for Referrals and Check Reviews

Oftentimes, the best contractors come with referrals. Ask your neighbors and friends about the contractors they used for their home remodeling and home improvement projects. If more than one person mentions the same contractor, then it might be a good idea to talk to that contractor.

You can also ask workers at your local home improvement store who they recommend to help you with your project. Home improvement stores have good a rapport with local contractors so they will be familiar with the ones in your area.

You can also check websites such as Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to check local reviews of the contractor’s services. People will leave comments about their good and bad experiences with the contractor which will help you determine if you should use that particular home improvement company.

Look at Images of Recent Projects

A good contractor should have recent photos of their home remodeling work. A collection of recent pictures not only shows that people are hiring the contractor but it also shows that the contractor will be able to deliver the work you are looking for.

The contractor should have a gallery on their website where they showcase home improvement photos. The contactor may also be active on social media and they may have an Instagram, twitter, or Facebook account that shows their work.

Know About Proper Licensure

A trained contractor should be licensed, bonded, and insured in your state. Bonding means that the contractor has insurance to protect the customer if the contractor doesn’t complete the job properly or doesn’t meet his/her financial obligations.

With a home renovation contractor in Paradise Valley, they are required to have a trade and registration. You can contact the local state department or research the contractor to find out if they have proper licensing.

Ask About Process and Timeline

One of the most important things you need to talk to your contractor about is the timeframe of the home remodeling or home improvement project. A timeline gives you an idea of how much the project will cost and how long it takes to complete. A contractor that isn’t able to give you a timeline may not be professional and may cause you to lose time and money in the end.

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Contact the Paradise Valley home remodeling experts at Peak One Builders & Restoration to learn more about creating a custom home. Request a free estimate or call 480-378-0611 now!

 

Read related articles:

• How to Remodel High Performance Homes in Paradise Valley


• Luxury Trends for Paradise Valley Home Additions


• How to Choose a Contractor in Paradise Valley

Home Renovation Service in Paradise Valley [Hiring Checklist]

[New Post] Top 5 Scottsdale Residential Construction "FAILS" to Avoid

Getting in over one’s head often yields negative results – regardless of the project you’re undertaking. However, it canget downright ugly when it comes to residential construction projects in Phoenix. Whether it’s mistakes made by the contractors or the home owners, in the end; the person doing the hiring is and should be responsible for making sure that every ‘I’ is dotted and all “T’s” are crossed to ensure that their home improvement or custom home construction project goes off without a hitch.

Since this is a statement of fact, here are five of the most common residential home construction ‘fails’ that any home owner should avoid at all costs.

#1 – DIY at the Wrong Time

Although many of the popular home improvement shows on TV tend to ‘look easy enough’ to complete, the reality begins to sink in when you get in over your head with a do it yourself project. This is why the first residential construction mistake that any home owner should always avoid is getting in over your head with any project. Regardless of how easy it might seem to be – always do the research about any project including:

• Ensure to compile a complete budget


• Know what tools are required to do the job – and that you have the skills to safely use these tools correctly


• Understand how much time it will take to complete the project – safely and correct the first time


• Make sure to choose an energy efficient homebuilder in Scottsdale

When you follow these three rules, you’ll quickly discover that many DIY projects should be classified as ‘Call in the Professionals’.

#2 – Forgetting to Get Permits

Believe it or not, the most common mistake that home owners tend to make during any construction project is ‘assumption of risk’. The truth is that although there are many private contractors that will take care of all building permits, ultimately, the responsibility falls on the property owner. Never ‘assume’ that your contractor will pull all permits. Before you sign any contract or agreement, make sure it’s clearly articulated and documented WHO is responsible for obtaining all permits from local code enforcement.

#3 – Obtain a Completion Date Estimate

Many home improvement projects or custom home building projects are completed by private contractors. And the number one leading cause of over-budgeting is extended time to complete the project. This is why the third thing you should always avoid is an open ended completion date. Regardless of where you are building, an experienced contractor in Scottsdale will always be able to provide you with an estimated completion date and incorporate that into their price quote. Although there are legitimate reasons for a delay, such as ‘Acts of God’ – make sure those are clearly spelled out in your contract so that at closing you don’t have an unexpected extra few thousand dollars on the bill.

#4 – Poor Communications during All Phases of the Construction

It’s literally impossible for new Scottsdale homeowners to always be onsite during a complete home rebuilding project. And even if they are – it’s quite common for communication gaps to occur between many contractors and the clients. Before you hire any contractor, make sure they have several contingency plans for effectively communicating with you including:

• Asking and clarifying the best methods to communicate with you


• Providing guidelines about when you need to be contacted for any changes or approval


• Always communicate any changes via email. This is critical as it’s documented in writing – so it will cover you in case there is any confusion.

#5 – Always Consider Resale Value

Finally, when you’re planning your residential construction project in Scottsdale, it’s vital that you consider the resale value of any projects you undertake. The goal of any construction project; whether it’s a simple upgrade, addition or complete construction is to provide extended value to the home owners. Unless you have endless supplies of cash to burn – it’s very important to consider cost vs. resale when you’re planning any construction project.

Peak One Builders will help avoid the home project “fails”

while providing an end result you can be proud of.

Give us a call today at (480) 378-0611

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/top-5-scottsdale-residential-construction-fails-to-avoid/

[New Post] 3 Profitable Home Improvement Ideas for Scottsdale Homes

When a homeowner is looking to remodel their house, how often is profitability considered? The truth is that most home improvement ideas are based on stylistic or practical enhancement additions that increase comfort. But what would you say if we told you that it was possible to integrate all of these attributes into some of the most profitable home improvement ideas for Scottsdale homes?

Here are three of our favorite tips that not only will improve the aesthetics and function – but also help improve the equity in your home in Scottsdale.

Tip #1 – Replace your Garage Door

According to Realtor.com, many homebuyers often consider the outside curb appeal as the determining factor when choosing between two, identically built homes. And one of the most overlooked elements to change during a home remodeling project in Scottsdale is the garage door. It’s estimated that a new garage door can cost a few thousand dollars to replace; however, there are several benefits to this home improvement step:

• First, it vastly improves the overall look of your Scottsdale home from the outside


• Second, newer garage doors are better insulated, which helps to keep your garages at a more consistent temperature; which can help reduce heating and air conditioning costs


• Third, it can help improve the resale value of your home by as much as 100% of the cost of the actual replacement

Tip #2 – Add Steel Doors for your Entry Way

Along with changing out your older garage door, adding a luxurious and energy efficient steel door to your front entryway can also be a very profitable home improvement for Scottsdale home owners. Although you’d think that steel doors would attract a lot of heat in summer, the truth is that they are very good for insulating and keeping extreme temperatures from entering a house. Plus, steel doors also improve the security of your home. When you add up the energy savings, plus the added security and increased curb appeal, it’s suggested that you can receive up to 97% Return on Investment. Anytime you can double your money on an improvement – that’s always a good thing to consider.

Tip #3 – Energy Efficient Kitchen Remodeling

According to the US Census Bureau, the average cost to remodel a kitchen is around $5,000.00. However, when you start adding customized appliances, cabinets, tile, flooring and other ‘tricks’ – that cost can (and often does) skyrocket. The question that many homeowners often ask is ‘how can you maximize your ROI with a kitchen remodeling project?’ The answer is simple – go green.

Traditionally a kitchen remodel provides a homeowner about a 70-80% ROI. However, when you apply energy efficient changes to your kitchen, you’re overall return tends to increase to over 100%. Plus, you’ll be saving money every month by reducing the amount of energy used inside your kitchen due to the remodeling project. Most homeowners often overlook this however it does positively impact your return on investment.

Read more about kitchen remodeling approaches:

• 3 Kitchen And Bath Industry Show Innovative Concepts For 2014


• Top 4 Functional Kitchen Layouts Scottsdale Residents Love


• Most Popular Scottsdale Kitchen Remodeling Trends For 2014

There are several ways to maximize the financial returns on your home improvement ideas in Scottsdale. The best way to increase profitability is to contact your home improvement contractor and speak with them about the best ways to financially save money – but also get a solid ROI when you list your home for sale in Scottsdale.

Ready to move forward with a home improvement project?

Give Peak One Builders a call today at (480) 378-0611

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/3-profitable-home-improvement-ideas-for-scottsdale-homes/

[New Post] Where to Start on a Home Renovation Project in Phoenix

It’s common for homeowners in Phoenix to find affordable ways to spice up their homes – and increase property value. And one of the quickest growing trends in Arizona is the addition of several home renovation projects both in the city limits and suburbs. One question that many homeowners often ask is where to start on a home renovation project?

A Priority List Of Items Needed For Any Home Renovation Project

First – Always Begin With Setting A Budget

Whether you’re going to simply paint the house or take on a complete restoration project, the first and probably biggest step is to create a very strong budget. It’s often said that money doesn’t grow on trees. Well, in the construction industry, money is often the primary hurdle to overcome. This is why the best thing any homeowner can do is to create a solid budget of what they can afford to spend on any home renovation project.

Second – Create A Needs List And Wish List

It’s also important for homeowners to look at the big picture of their potential home renovation project. The best way to accomplish this step is to create two, independent lists.

• The first list will be items that you need to include in your renovation project. For example, if you’re planning on increasing the overall square footage of your home by adding a casita, another bedroom or finishing a basement, the actual project of adding those spaces is a needed feature in order to accomplish your goal.


• Once you have a good idea as to what you’re trying to accomplish with your renovation project, the next thing to consider is what material items you need to make the addition ‘livable’. Let’s look at the basement project for an example. If you’re going to finish a basement, you’ll most likely need a few critical items including air conditioning/heating duct work installed (if not already complete), electrical and plumbing installed (again, if it’s not already finished), drywall hung, walls built, filled with insulation and textured and several other common elements. If you’re going to have living spaces in the basement, you’ll most likely need at least one full bath finished as well.

After you’ve created the needed items for your home renovation project in Phoenix, the next step is to think of wants and compare them to your budget. For example:

• Perhaps you’d want a bar installed in a loft, or outside on your backyard patio?


• Maybe you want to install decorative lighting, install surround sound speakers inside the walls or other upgraded items?


• It might be a desire of yours to add custom molding, textured walls or vaulted ceilings.

The point here is that it’s very important for you to separate items you need to have completed, vs those that are more of a want – where if you have extra room in your budget, you can afford to install.

As you can see, there are several actions that can keep you busy when you’re asking where to start on a home renovation project in Phoenix. The best advice we can give is to contact a professional general contractor for a free consultation so they can answer any questions and help you plan that perfect home renovation project.

Renovations, remodeling, new construction, etc; we have the Professional answers – call us today at (480) 378-0611!

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/where-to-start-on-a-home-renovation-project-in-phoenix/

[New Post] Bathroom Remodeling in Scottsdale AZ | Maximizing Your Space

One of the more popular projects taking off in recent months is many homeowners completing bathroom remodeling in Scottsdale AZ. Before you grab the sledgehammer and begin to remove all of your fixtures, slow down for a few minutes and think. Bathroom remodeling projects can be tricky. And one of the most difficult obstacles to overcome is finding ways to maximize space into the remodeling project.

Steps To Take When Beginning Any Bathroom Remodeling

Step #1 – Complete a Strong Inventory of Essentials vs. Desires

The truth about bathrooms is they serve a purpose. But this doesn’t mean they can’t be filled with a few nice items that enhance the look and feel of this commonly used room. The first step that you should take when beginning a bathroom remodel is to take stock of the available space, along with a list of items you need to have inside the bathroom as well as a list of items you’d like to add.

For example: most women require some essential items such as:

• Towels, washcloths, makeup, blow dryers, etc.


• You might also need medications, soaps, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products and other small items.

Once you’ve taken an inventory of items you need to have, begin to add a few ‘wants’ to the list such as:

• Adding shelving to hold these items (an effort to maximize space)


• Adding a makeup table or vanity


• Installing new bathtubs, showers, fixtures

Step #2 – Create A Budget And Time Constraints

Once you’ve made your list of items you want and need, the next step is to look at your financials to determine a budget and time requirements to get this job completed. It’s always expected that any budget be realistic and will not impact your ability to live a comfortable lifestyle inside your current home. You also need to consider the time it will take to complete this project along with several other factors that might impact your ability to host friends, family and others at your home.

Step #3 – Consider Lighting Upgrades

Did you know that adding more light will add more visual space to any room including a bathroom remodeling project in Scottsdale AZ? One of the most popular ways to add lighting is through the lighting that a vanity can provide. Not only will it illuminate faces when applying makeup or shaving, but it can also help the room seem ‘larger’. It’s recommended that you consider all lighting options when planning to start a bathroom-remodeling project.

Finally, if you’re really looking to maximize the space inside your bathroom, it might be a good idea to speak directly with a bathroom remodeling contractor in Scottsdale AZ about installing additional storage. Believe it or not, there are several new custom-built storage solutions that many homeowners are using in their bathroom remodeling projects in Scottsdale. Meeting with a general contractor that has experience in this segment is a smart idea – especially when they can provide you with additional options to maximize your bathroom space.

Remodeling your bathroom does not need to be an overwhelming task. Call us at (480) 378-0611, and we can help you get started.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/bathroom-remodeling-in-scottsdale-az-maximizing-your-space/

[New Post] Five Ways To Save Energy During Our Hot Summers in Arizona

When it gets hot in Arizona, we all feel the financial pinch. A common reality of living in the desert is that our energy consumption rates often skyrocket during the hot summer months. Whether it’s due to the AC units running frequently or the constant use of swimming pools, the truth is that many homeowners often need to find efficient ways to save energy during AZ summers. Fortunately, we have a few tips especially for those that are looking into remodeling their homes soon.

Three Upgrades That Save Money During Our Hot Arizona Summers

First – Consider Upgrading to Energy Star® rated Major Appliances

Buying a new major appliance when you remodel a home might seem counterproductive, however, this idea has significant merit. We all know that as technology improves, so does efficiency. However, new US Department of Energy regulations have set forth tremendous requirements for energy efficiency in newly manufactured major appliances. This standard is known as Energy Star® rating. A new HVAC system that is Energy Star® rated has been shown to use between 20-35% less energy to produce similar comfort levels than older systems. And when you’re goal each summer is to save money and energy when it’s hot outside in Arizona, it simply makes sense to invest in a more energy efficient machine.

Second – Consider The Type Of HVAC System You Plan To Upgrade

Buying an Energy Star® rated major appliance is one way to save money and energy during summer, however, it’s also important to consider what type of product you plan to purchase. In recent years, HVAC manufacturers such as Trane, Day & Night and others have introduced new technology that relies on our earth’s natural resources (natural cool and heat) to keep your home a consistent temperature. These units are called Heat Pump systems. A heat pump unit, when properly installed can save between 50-60% on monthly utility bills compared to older AC units. When you add up those savings, the new heat pump system can pay for itself rather quickly.

Third – Look Into Better Window Coverings

The reality of life is that where there is sunlight, there is heat. In fact, did you know that by simply blocking the sun from entering your home, you could reduce the temperature inside by as much as 20 degrees naturally? This is why a great idea for saving energy each month during those hot summer days in Arizona is to consider buying better window coverings such as retractable window shades. These new systems are usually installed on the inside of your windows, so you don’t have to worry about our extreme weather elements burning or damaging them. Many homeowners that complete a remodeling project often overlook these rather inexpensive upgrades. But, when properly installed and used correctly, you can save a ton of money each month on utility bills.

These three items might seem to be rather expensive. However, by looking at the big picture, you’ll quickly discover how easily they can and often pay for themselves. When you’re looking for the best ways to save energy during hot AZ summers consider a few of these wholesale changes. You will be surprised how quickly these smart investments in overall comfort and energy conservation will pay dividends.

We can help you save energy and money. Call us today at (480) 378-0611 to schedule a free consultation!

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/five-ways-to-save-energy-during-our-hot-summers-in-arizona/

[New Post] Top 4 Summer Home Improvement Trends in Arizona published on

When the weather gets hot – home owners in Arizona tend to look forward to keeping cool. When it comes to home improvement the growing trend is energy conservation while maximizing comfort. When you look at most of the growing remodeling trends, finding cost-effective ways to increase overall comfort while saving money on monthly utilities has become a real focus for many Americans.

Four of the Top Home Improvement Trends In AZ

First – Upgrading HVAC Systems

As technology improves, manufactures of HVAC systems have taken proactive steps to develop new systems that focus on using fewer natural resources to increase indoor comfort. Arizona home owners are starting to notice these improvements and have taken an interest in upgrading their older, energy-consuming HVAC systems with new, Energy Star® rated systems. Some of the most popular remodeling jobs include the installation of heat pump systems; designed to use the earth’s core and temperature to maintain an average temperature inside the home. Not only does a heat pump system keep you home comfortable each month, but it can also save as much as 50% on your monthly energy bills.

Second – Installing New Windows

Another growing trend in Arizona, especially in older homes is the replacement of windows to, once again, find ways to improve indoor comfort and maximize energy efficiency. Today’s new windows are manufactured with higher-quality materials that results in less warm or cool air entering or escaping the home. In fact, it is estimated that older windows can lead to a 30% loss in energy – especially when the window seals are worn out entirely. Many home owners are having window seals replaced as a temporary solution – but more often than not, the home improvement trend growing is the complete replacement of windows.

Third – Upgrading Flooring Options

As much as the first two trends are about energy improvement, the next item on our list is more about style and comfort. Whether you currently have carpet, hardwood flooring or tile, many home owners simply get ‘tired’ with their flooring – and thus have gone towards upgrading their flooring inside their homes. There are some new ceramic tiles manufactured today that look just like hardwood flooring but last much longer – and retain heat and cool temperatures much better than older flooring options. It’s also common for Arizona home owners to consider multiple flooring options – even in the same room. Some examples of this include installing tile in an entry or walk way and carpet in the primary room.

Fourth – Installing Indoor Organizational Options

Our final item on the list of growing home improvement trends in Arizona is finding creative ways to maximize space and stay organized. In the home improvement sector, this could mean installing new cabinets, built-in storage bins (especially inside bedrooms and located next to a window to create a window seat) upgrading kitchen storage spaces, installing larger pantries and even creating detailed storage rooms inside garages. The trend here is to maximize storage space and to remove as much clutter as possible.

As you can see, there are several home improvement trends that focus primarily on efficiency. So if you’re looking to make any home improvements in Arizona, consider the above items as smart and affordable ways to improve the look and function of your home – while also saving money and time each month.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/top-4-summer-home-improvement-trends-in-arizona/

[New Post] Home Remodeling Contractors In Scottsdale Busy With Additions published on

One of the ‘perks’ of living in Arizona is the temperate climate. In fact, in a recent article, Forbes Magazine listed their top reasons for moving to Scottsdale, AZ, and they listed ‘great weather’ as number one. This great climate also has a way of convincing many family members to consider a move to the Valley of the Sun for health and financial reasons also. This has stimulated a remodeling spurt – especially for home remodeling contractors in Scottsdale.

Two Reasons Business Is Picking Up For Remodeling Contractors

Reason #1: More Family Members are Moving Due to Health Issues

Did you know that among the top 5 major diseases the only one on the rise is COPD? Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is an umbrella term for Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema and even lung cancer. There are over 12 million Americans that currently live with COPD and it’s estimated that just as many live with it but have not been officially diagnosed.

As our ‘baby boomers’ begin to age, the onset of COPD is growing. Arizona offers COPD patients a wonderful option to live due to the clean, dry air associated with living in Scottsdale. This leads many current Scottsdale area residents to add-on to their existing homes to provide a comfortable and affordable living option for those family members that need to move here.

There are also times when aging parents simply need to move in with their adult children for safety reasons. Whether it’s due to the onset of chronic medical or other health conditions, the fact remains that sometimes our parents simply need to feel safe knowing they have a family member close by to care for them if needed.

Reason #2: Many People are Moving Due to Economic Reasons

The United States economy is not as strong as it should be and the cost of living in Arizona is not as expensive as many places across the US. This has convinced many people to consider moving to Arizona to live with friends or relatives – sharing the cost for everybody and making it easier to increase household income. Due to this, there has been a rise in home remodeling projects that include several guest-home options such as:

• Adding attached casita’s with a private entrance so that friends or family members living with you can come-and-go as they like without disturbing the entire household.


• Building detached ‘mother-in-law’ apartments in back yards or next to the existing home.


• Converting garages into additional living space.

When homeowners take on these home improvement projects, it provides them with several additional benefits including:

• It increases the resale value of their home


• Provides additional living space for future house guests


• Can create affordable travel options for friends and relatives

As you can see, the increase in home remodeling projects and guest house construction in Scottsdale is based on several reasons and that finding a good home remodeling contractors in Scottsdale that have time to complete your project might be difficult. The key is to contact a company that has several resources and networks of professional contractors dedicated to getting your project completed on time always at affordable pricing.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/home-remodeling-contractors-in-scottsdale-busy-with-additions/