Kitchen & Bath Learning Center
Welcome to our Learning Center, your trusted resource for all your home remodeling questions! Whether you're wondering about the timeline for planning a kitchen remodel, the design decisions involved in a bathroom remodel, or the costs associated with these projects, we’ve got you covered!
Our expert articles dive into essential topics like selecting the best water filter system for your kitchen remodel, understanding the difference between a bathroom renovation and a remodel, and finding the right remodeling contractor for your project. We also offer insights on choosing the best building materials and tips for living in your home during a kitchen or bathroom remodel. Explore our comprehensive guides to make informed decisions and turn your dream home in the New Hampshire Seacoast or Southern Maine into a reality!
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- Renovations vs. remodeling
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Which is better: a time and materials, cost-plus, or fixed price contract?
When you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Portsmouth, NH, one of the most critical decisions you'll face is how your contractor will bill you. Your choice in this area can significantly impact not only your budget but also your overall experience during the remodel.
There are primarily two methods of charging for a service: a variable cost method, ie. Time & Materials or Cost-Plus. Or, a guaranteed cost method, like the aptly named Fixed Cost (also called Fixed Price). To avoid surprises, it is important to know which method your contractor will be using.
Let's explore the different contract types—Time & Materials, Cost-Plus, and Fixed Cost—and help you decide which will be the best fit for your project.
Should I pay markup on building materials for my home renovation in NH?
Have you ever reviewed a quote or invoice from a contractor and noticed a markup on the building materials? Did you wonder why that extra charge was there? Maybe you even thought to yourself, "Is this really necessary?"
It’s totally understandable to question whether that markup is justified. After all, it feels like it’s just extra money added on top without any real benefit. But is there more to it than just the price difference?
Before jumping to conclusions, let’s take a closer look at what that markup buys you and why it might actually be saving you more than you realize. When we’re done, you will have the information you need to decide whether paying a markup makes sense or if you should be exploring other options.
What is the difference between an estimate, a quote, and a bid?
Contractors and homeowners alike often use the words “estimate”, “quote”, “bid” & sometimes even “budget” interchangeably, and this leads to a lot of confusion and misunderstanding. What do all these terms mean? Do they all mean the same thing? What is the difference between an estimate, a quote, and a bid? Which one should you ask your contractor for?
How will a remodel affect the value of my home?
There are a lot of factors to consider when you are remodeling your home. One consideration is how the improvements will affect your home’s value.
How will a building project affect your home’s value? Do some projects have a better return on investment than others? Which remodeling projects will increase your home’s resale value the most? Should you consider some of these projects for your home?
Will our company be a good fit for you?
Contrary to what most of us (contractors) will tell you, there is no such thing as the best contractor in the area. There is no best car, best smartphone, or best meal either. Everyone is different, and we all have different needs, desires, and preferences. So the best choice of car, smartphone, or meal for one person isn’t the best choice for someone else. The choice of contractors is no different.