Establishing Your Home Remodeling and Contractor Priorities

Greg Smith Company design build remodeling contractor and custom home builder

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Greg Smith Company Guide: Establishing Your
Home Remodeling & Contractor Priorities

Before you start serious planning for a home remodeling project — and before you start talking to remodeling contractors — it’s useful to define your remodeling priorities. We hope you find this guide helpful in getting the most from your home remodeling project. Also see our tips on How to Select a Remodeling Contractor.

Unless otherwise instructed in a question, establish your priorities assuming you can afford to do the project and use the remodeler(s) you are considering. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers. Instead, these questions will help you clarify what matters most to you and to see your priorities in ways you may not otherwise consider.

Part 1 - Home Remodeling Project Priorities

Print Part 1 and fill in your answers to these questions about your project.

1. What is it about my home now that reduces its value (emotional, functional, financial) to me?

2. What is it about my home that I want to change? (For example: make more space, improve appearance, increase functionality, modernize it, fix it up for resale, etc.)

3. What must I absolutely have in my remodeling project?

4. What more would I like to have done to my home if I can afford it?

5. What would be nice to have — but that I could do without if it added too much cost?

Part 2 - Home Remodeling Contractor Priorities

For the following statements about home remodeling contractors, rate each by entering a number from 1 to 5. Highlight a number to change it and use the TAB key or mouse to go to the next question.

“1” means the statement or attribute is not important to you or that you strongly disagree.

“5” means it is very important to you or that you strongly agree.

You will get a Home Remodeling Contractor Priorities Score at the end (an average of all your answers) that will help you understand what to expect based on your priorities.

The Home Remodeler Contractor
1. I am looking for a remodeler who will offer remodeling solutions and ideas I may not have thought of on my own.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
2. I want a remodeler who can show me ample examples of their work.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
3. I want a remodeler who can give me ample client references.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
4. I want a remodeler with a track record of highly satisfied clients.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
5. I want a remodeler who is honest, reputable and dependable.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
6. I want a remodeler who keeps current with advances in products and materials, as well as with the best design and construction approaches.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
7. I want a remodeler who understands me and what I am looking for.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
8. I want a remodeling company that I can communicate with easily (e.g., easy to reach by phone, no language difficulties, listens well, communicates clearly when talking to me, etc.)	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
9. I want the remodeler and all the people working on my home to be highly skilled, experienced and trustworthy.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
10. I want to use a remodeler where the company principal(s) will be personally involved with my project.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
11. I prefer to use a remodeling company that belongs to and practices the code of ethics of a reputable trade association such as those of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
12. I prefer a remodeling company whose staff has trade association or other relevant certifications such as NARI Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler and EPA Certified Renovator.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
13. I want to work with a well-run remodeling firm rather than one that is poorly managed, runs on a shoe-string and may not be able to complete my project.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
14. I want a remodeler with a fixed place of business that allows me to get in touch with the remodeler if I need to.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
15. I prefer a remodeler who is involved with and gives back to the community.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
16. I want to use a contractor that has an established, legal and registered business.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
17. I want a remodeler who builds to or above building code requirements, has their work inspected and passes building inspections.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
18. I want to a contractor who is properly and currently licensed in my area.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
19. I want a contractor who carries an amount of general business liability insurance and other insurance appropriate for their work and that helps protect me and is satisfactory to me.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
20. I want a contractor who carries workers' comp on their workers which could reduce my risk in the event of an accident.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
21. I understand that no two remodeling companies will deliver the exact same level of quality, service, value and remodeling experience (even for the same price).	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
22. It is important that I have complete peace of mind about the remodeler I select.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
23. It is important that I have “good chemistry” with my remodeler.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
24. My head and gut both must approve the remodeler I use.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
25. I want a contractor who uses subcontractors who have proven track records, are properly and currently licensed if appropriate, insured, carry workers comp, and are legally registered businesses.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
26. I want a remodeler who will provide me lien waivers at the time I pay.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
27. I want a remodeler who pulls building permits, follows all building codes and makes sure all of their work passes inspection.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
28. I want a remodeler who pulls any required permits in their name so that they (and not me) are liable having the construction meet building code inspections.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
29. If I can’t afford the quality I want or the remodeler that I feel is best, I would prefer to scale back the scope of my project, materials and products used rather than compromise on the quality of the project or the quality of the remodeler.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
The Home Remodeling Process
1. I want a remodeler who can take care of the whole project and process.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
2. I want the remodeling project to run smoothly from beginning to end.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
3. I want a remodeler who has a proven process that leads to regularly leads to successful outcomes.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
4. I want the remodeler to take extra good care to avoid damaging or soiling my home and things during the demolition remodeling process.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
5. I want a remodeler who will leave the worksite safe and clean every night — especially over weekends.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
6. I would prefer a remodeler who provides a better-than-average warranty.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
The Features - Design, Quality, Energy Efficiency, and More
1. The quality of the project’s design is important to me.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
2. The quality of the materials and products used in my project is important to me.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
3. The quality of the construction craftsmanship is important to me.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
4. I want a remodeler who can recommend remodeling solutions that will allow me, or a loved one, to live in our/their home longer, more comfortably and more safely.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
5. I want a remodeler who can integrate low-maintenance materials and products into the design.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
6. I want a remodeler who can integrate energy-efficient products and materials into the design.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
7. I want a remodeler who can integrate “green building” into design/construction.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
The Cost
1. I want a remodeler who will give me an honest cost proposal, not an unrealistically low bid just to get the job and then find ways to add costs.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
2. I would prefer a remodeler who provided me with an honest price for the scope and quality I am looking for.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
3. I want a remodeler that will price out the project to include the materials and products (exact, type, quality, cost, etc.) that I want and not low-priced “allowances” when presenting their proposal price.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
4. I believe a price that is too low may be more of a red flag than a good deal because I may end up paying much more by the end of the project or have an unsuccessful project.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
5. I want a remodeler who will detail exactly what I am getting and guarantees exactly what I will pay for it unless I change the scope of the project.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
6. I am not willing to risk a poor, problem-plagued project to save money if I can afford a remodeler who will likely do a better job for me and provide me with a better remodeling experience.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.
7. I agree that when it comes to a remodeling project, the lowest price doesn't mean the highest value.	Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.Enter a number 1 to 5.

My Home Remodeling Contractor Priorities Score:

Using your overall Remodeling Contractor Priorities Score, find yourself on the table below.
If your score is:	1 to 2	3 to 4	4 to 5
Here is a summary of what you might experience if you select a remodeler* based on your Remodeling Contractor Priorities Score:
Quality of Materials	Low	Better	Best
Quality of Design	Low	Better	Best
Craftsmanship	Low	Better	Best
Smoothness of Project Management	Low	Better	Best
Value	Low	Better	Best
Communication	Poor	Good	Excellent
Chemistry with Remodeler	Poor	Good	Excellent
Estimated Cost of Project	Low	Moderate	Higher
Predictability that Final Cost = Estimate	Least Predictable	More Predictable	Most Predictable
Risk of Problems Occurring	Highest	Moderate	Lowest
Ethics/Legal Compliance	Probably Lower Standards	Probably Adequate Standards	Most Likely High Standards
Satisfaction with Completed Project	Possible	More Likely	Most Likely

*These descriptions of what you MIGHT experience represent three DIFFERENT levels of a “PROTOTYPICAL” remodeler you might choose if you selected one based on the remodeling contractor selection priorities you entered. Regardless of the prices charged, no two remodelers are the same or will give you the same project and remodeling experience. Our assessment tool should only be used to provide you with a GENERAL SENSE OF WHAT YOU MIGHT EXPERIENCE if you picked a “prototypical” remodeling contractor based on the AVERAGE of your individual scores. The average score may not be as important to you as the answers to specific questions. Use your judgment.

PLEASE NOTE: This assessment tool uses certain assumptions, some of which are subjective, some of which represent what is believed to be “common wisdom” or other generally accepted information and some of which is anecdotal. It is not based on scientifically rigorous data or methodology. While we think it is a helpful tool, its level of accuracy is unknown.

We provide design build remodeler, remodeling contractor and custom home builder services to homeowners in:
Virginia: Alexandria - Annandale - Arlington County - North Arlington and South Arlington - Ashburn - Bailey's Crossroads - Burke - Centreville - Chantilly - Clifton - Dulles - Dunn Loring - Fairfax County - Fairfax City - Fairfax Station - Falls Church - Fort Myer - Great Falls - Herndon - Kingstowne - McLean - North Springfield - Oakton - South Riding - Springfield - Sterling - Reston - Vienna - W. Springfield.
Maryland: Montgomery County - Bethesda - Cabin John - Chevy Chase - Darnestown - Gaithersburg - Germantown - Glen Echo - Kensington - North Bethesda - North Potomac - Potomac - Rockville - Takoma Park - University Park - Westlake - Wheaton.
Washington DC: Northwest - Capitol Hill - Georgetown - Cleveland Park - Foxhall - Cathedral Heights. Delaware: Sussex County.

The types of projects the Greg Smith Company develops, as a design build remodeling contractor and custom home builder, include: kitchen remodeling and additions, bathroom remodeling, home and room additions, finished basement remodeling, finished attic remodeling and conversions, exterior remodeling, whole house/home renovations and remodeling, exterior renovations and remodeling, custom home building and more.