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4 Reasons to Hire a Contractor

Monday, October 24, 2022
by Mehner Weiser Real Estate, LLC.

Remodeling your home can be a big (and stressful) undertaking. Fortunately, hiring a contractor who’s well-versed in the process can help alleviate some of that stress.

If you bring in a contractor, be diligent in your hiring. Get referrals, compare quotes and interview several candidates to make sure you get the best fit for the job.

Are you unsure how a contractor can help with your project? Here are four ways:

  • They can handle all the permits. Many remodeling projects — even small ones — require permitting from the city. A contractor will know how to obtain these permits and what documentation is necessary for approval. And if you’re selling in the future, having project permits will be important to prove everything was done correctly.

  • They can build a skilled team. You’ll likely need several workers (including specialized ones) if you’re doing a large project. An experienced contractor will know plenty of vetted professionals they can hire to help get the job done right.

  • They can improve efficiency. A seasoned contractor wants to ensure your project stays on track and is completed on time; they should have paperwork to give you a timeline and other essential information. In addition, they’ll have a plan to divide up the tasks among workers to minimize mess and disruption.

  • They could reduce your material expenses. Contractors typically have connections to local suppliers and material vendors. They may also get discounts for ordering in bulk (or for multiple projects at once) — all of which can help you save in the long run.

Reach out if you’re considering buying a new place rather than remodeling your current one.

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5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Bathroom

Thursday, July 1, 2021
by Mehner Weiser Real Estate, LLC.

 

Remodeling your bathroom can be a great investment. It immediately makes your home more usable and enjoyable, and in the long term, an upgrade could increase your home’s value by thousands of dollars.

And a remodel doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or costly event. There are quite a few small, low-cost projects that can offer a big impact. 

Thinking about updating a bathroom? Here are a few projects you might want to consider.

Improve the Lighting

Sometimes changing out a fixture or installing a different type of lighting can make all the difference. You can even upgrade to smart bulbs for extra value and convenience. 

Add Some Storage

Who doesn’t need more storage? Whether it’s adding an extra medicine cabinet above the toilet or shelves to the closet, every bathroom can be enhanced with a little extra storage space.

Update Countertops and Fixtures

Changing out the hardware can make a big difference. That might mean swapping countertop materials, changing out drawer pulls or installing new doorknobs and faucets.

Add a Pop of Color

You don’t need to paint the whole room, but a pop of color in an alcove or built-in shelving unit can quickly improve the space. You could even do a patterned wallpaper if it fits with your aesthetic.

Upgrade the Shower or Tub

Could you add seating or built-in storage to your shower? Jacuzzi jets to your tub? A floor-level door for accessibility? It’s the details that matter.

One more thing: If you do opt to update your bathroom, don’t skimp on the planning. Have a budget in place, carefully vet your contractors, and avoid DIYing anything you’re not entirely confident about.

Do you have questions about your home’s value? Reach out today.

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4 remodeling projects worth the investment

Thursday, March 29, 2018
by Mehner Weiser Real Estate, LLC.

4 Home Improvements With High Returns

Remodeling your home can be a great way to increase its value and ensure you get good returns when it comes time to sell. But before you go tearing out your floors or adding another bedroom, take note: Not all projects are created equal. In fact, according to recent data from Remodeling magazine's Cost vs. Value report, there's a pretty big discrepancy between which projects deliver high returns and those that don't. 
  
Want to make sure your remodels are worth the effort? Here are some top options: 
  
  • Get a new garage door. It seems simple, but replacing your garage door is the most value-adding project you can take on. On average, it delivers returns of more than 98 percent upon resale.
  • Focus on curb appeal. Upgrades to exterior areas saw serious growth over the last year. Wood deck additions increased over 18 percent in value, while stone veneer installation value was up almost 14 percent. 
  • Replace your entry door. Don't bother sprucing up old doors. Replacing them with steel models can deliver a whopping 91 percent ROI. And at an average cost of $1,471, they're one of the most affordable updates for your home.
  • Upgrade your kitchen. Minor kitchen remodels continue to be a top value-adding project. This year, the average small remodel adds about $17,193 to your home's value and recoups more than 81 percent of your costs.
You might want to rule out projects like backyard patios, master suite additions and major kitchen remodels -- they're notorious for low returns. If you're looking to boost your home's value and increase its marketability, focus your efforts on projects that improve aesthetics and add ease and convenience instead. 
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5 Tips to Budget Your Remodel Project

Monday, February 26, 2018
by Mehner Weiser Real Estate, LLC.

5  Tips for Budgeting a Remodel

Determine Where the Money Will Come from

​Will you use savings? Or will you take out a home equity loan? Once you determine your source of funding, determine how much you want to spend on the project – and stick to that limit.

Set Your Priorities

Before you pull out a calculator, clarify your reasons for renovating. Divide those reasons into "wants" and "needs." For example, reconfiguring your bathroom so that your current questionable electrical and plumbing will pass an inspection is a "need." His-and-her water closets, a whirlpool tub, and built-in towel heaters are "wants." Setting priorities will help you make decisions as you move through the renovation process.

Step Away From The Computer

Visit showrooms, model homes, and design stores in addition to checking out pictures online. Before investing in materials and appliances, be sure to see and feel them, or samples of them, in person.

DIY Or Contractor?

The biggest question to answer when creating your budget is deciding whether to do the work yourself or to hire a contractor. Doing the work yourself is usually less expensive – unless, of course, something (costly) goes wrong. Using a contractor, however, can mean your project is completed to professional standards and usually in a shorter time frame. Be sure to calculate the value of your time (and your back and knees) and the inconvenience of having a bathroom or kitchen out of use during the project when deciding whether to opt for DIY or a pro.

Expect The Unexpected

Whether you plan to do the work yourself or hire a contractor, add on an extra 15 to 20 percent of your total budget for unforeseen expenses. Added costs inevitably arise, especially if you're dealing with an older home.

If you have questions or are looking for a good contractor, I’m connected with some of the best professionals in the business.
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Displaying blog entries 1-4 of 4

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Mehner Weiser Real Estate Group
RE/MAX Dynamic Properties
3350 Midtown Place
Anchorage AK 99503
Bethany (907) 223-1632
Bonnie (907) 223-0005
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