Life on Florida’s West Coast

Ah, the joys of an extra bedroom…

I’m starting to look around at contractors to remodel our kitchen, and quite possibly add another bed and bath to the house. I live on a very large lot and with our current real estate market; it seems a lot wiser to just improve the house I already inhabit. Plus, we live in a super convenient location with a relatively safe neighborhood. So, rather than move to another location, I’m much more open to expanding the kitchen and family room and adding that bedroom and bathroom I mentioned.

I like knowing that the contractor I choose to work with in the end will have performance bonds in place. Having them will guarantee the contractor will complete the project per the terms of the contract. A performance bond is usually issued along with a payment bond, which assures the sub-contractors and suppliers will be paid even if the contractor flakes out and defaults.

We have some contractors in the area with great reputations, but the industry is also built of a delicate web of dependence on the market. Things could go wrong at any turn. I want to know I’ll be getting exactly what I contract for – no more and no less.

A bigger kitchen is any cook’s dream, yes? We have two bathrooms, but one more would only add value to the house. One more bedroom? Ah, bliss! We’re a tad bit crowded now. Gigi would love to have her own “princess” room.

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2 Comments »

Comment by Pfunk
2007-09-25 01:41:17

Because it’s ‘fun’, Mommy?

har har…

 
Comment by Barry Cox - Scottsdale Realtor Subscribed to comments via email
2007-09-25 19:08:23

You’re doing the smart thing with adding a bathroom and another bedroom. Square footage is always king. Other upgrades like granite counter tops etc etc are nice, but you will notice that appraisers don’t give too much value for them. They do have to consider square footage, bedrooms and bathrooms in the appraisal though, because obviously these items make the home more desirable and functional.

Good luck with the remodel and remember to not pay the contractors too much up front. Make sure that they finish the job to your satisfaction before you pay them the balance for the work.

 
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