
Eric's home renovation process was a long and winding road, but it was worth it in the end. He started by creating a detailed budget, allocating $200,000 for the entire project.
Eric's initial plan was to renovate his 2,500 sq. ft. home in just six months, but it ultimately took him nine months to complete. He soon realized that renovating a house is a complex process that requires patience and flexibility.
Eric's home renovation project involved updating the electrical system, installing new windows, and adding a master suite. He also had to relocate his family to a nearby Airbnb for two months while the work was being done.
Eric's renovation process was not without its challenges, but he learned a lot along the way and was able to tackle each obstacle head-on.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Home Renovation Process
Before Hiring a Contractor
Before hiring a contractor, it's crucial to know what you need from them. A renovation is not just about demolition and installation, but also about design choices like tile, paint colors, hardware, countertops, and more.
Some contractors provide design services, while others don't, so you'll need to decide if you want to work with a contractor who can assist with design or make those choices on your own. Eric Spinazzola, owner of Spinazzola & Co., recommends working with an architect or designer to achieve detailed plans, which will help you accurately communicate your vision to a contractor.
You'll want to ask a contractor a lot of questions before hiring them, including what type of projects they normally do, how long they've been in business, and if they have insurance and insured subcontractors. It's also essential to know if they provide design services and have a long-standing relationship with their vendors.
Here are some questions to ask a contractor:
- What type of projects do you normally do?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have insurance? And are your subcontractors insured?
- Do you provide design services?
- Do you have a long-standing relationship with the vendors you use?
- How often will you be on-site? Are you my main contact, or will another person head up the day-to-day project management?
- What sort of timeline do you expect for this project?
- How far do you live from my job site?
- How do you structure your pricing?
It's also vital to be clear about costs before hiring a contractor. They should be able to deliver a scope of work and detailed estimate, which is a line-by-line proposal of labor and materials. Make sure you understand how the contractor charges, whether it's a fixed-price model or a cost-plus model.
Finding a Reliable Contractor
Start your search by asking friends and colleagues for contractor recommendations. A close friend or colleague will be truthful about the way the contractor handled the job.
You'll want to know what you need from a contractor, including design choices and detailed plans. An architect or designer can help you achieve those plans, which will allow you to accurately communicate your vision to a prospective contractor.
Some questions to ask a contractor before you hire them include what type of projects they normally do, how long they've been in business, and if they have insurance for themselves and their subcontractors. It's also essential to understand how they structure their pricing.
A walk-through consultation can give you a better feel for the contractor's personality and communication style. This is a time to get a clear understanding of how they work and if you're comfortable with their approach.
Be clear about costs before you hire the contractor. They should be able to deliver a scope of work and detailed estimate, which is a line-by-line proposal of labor and materials.
Contractor Evaluation and Hiring
Evaluating contractors is a crucial step in ensuring your home renovation project runs smoothly. A close friend or colleague can provide a valuable referral, as they'll be honest about the contractor's work and communication style.
To find a contractor you'll get along with, ask friends and colleagues for recommendations. This way, you'll have a better match, and the contractor will likely feel a sense of obligation to take care of you.
Before hiring a contractor, ask them questions like: What type of projects do you normally do? How long have you been in business? Do you have insurance, and are your subcontractors insured? A good contractor will take the time to address any concerns you have.
Here are some key questions to consider when evaluating a contractor:
- What type of projects do you normally do?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have insurance? And are your subcontractors insured?
- Do you provide design services?
- Do you have a long-standing relationship with the vendors you use?
- How often will you be on-site? Are you my main contact, or will another person head up the day-to-day project management?
- What sort of timeline do you expect for this project?
- How far do you live from my job site?
- How do you structure your pricing?
After finding a contractor you like, schedule a walk-through consultation to see if you're a good fit. This will also help you understand their communication style and personality.
What to Ask a Contractor
As you're evaluating contractors, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure you find the right fit for your project. You'll want to ask about the type of projects they normally do, and how long they've been in business.
Eric Spinazzola, owner of Spinazzola & Co., suggests getting detailed plans drawn up before starting a project, which can help you accurately communicate your vision to a contractor. This can also help you determine the scope of work and timeline.
Some questions to put on your list include: what type of projects do you normally do, how long have you been in business, do you have insurance and are your subcontractors insured, do you provide design services, and do you have a long-standing relationship with the vendors you use.
You'll also want to ask about their communication style and how often they'll be on-site. Asmar suggests that open communication is key, and it's better to have everything out on the table. This can help you understand their approach and whether it aligns with your needs.
Expand your knowledge: Do It Yourself Home Renovation Projects
To get a better feel for the contractor's personality and style, schedule a walk-through consultation. This will give them more insight into your project, and you can also ask to meet your main contact, if that's not the lead contractor.
Here are some questions to ask a contractor before you hire them:
- What type of projects do you normally do?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have insurance? And are your subcontractors insured?
- Do you provide design services?
- Do you have a long-standing relationship with the vendors you use?
- How often will you be on-site? Are you my main contact, or will another person head up the day-to-day project management?
- What sort of timeline do you expect for this project?
- How far do you live from my job site?
- How do you structure your pricing?
Protect Yourself with a Contract
A contract is always wise when there's a lot of money involved, usually an addition or a whole house transformation. This is according to Spinazzola, who recommends signing a contract for large jobs.
The contract should state the agreed-upon job price, the job plan, expected period for completion, and the payment plan. Spinazzola emphasizes that any changes or adjustments should be produced in writing and signed off on by the customer.
A contract protects both the homeowner and the contractor, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. It's also a good idea to include a lien waiver that states all subcontractors will be paid in full by the contractor.
Here are some key points to include in a contract:
- Agreed-upon job price
- Job plan
- Expected period for completion
- Payment plan
- Any changes or adjustments in writing and signed off on by the customer
- Lien waiver stating all subcontractors will be paid in full
Having a contract in place can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth project process. It's a small step that can make a big difference in the long run.
Contractor Process and Communication
Before you start a home renovation project, it's essential to know what you need from a contractor. A renovation is more than just demolition and installation - it also involves design choices, such as tile, paint colors, hardware, and countertops.
You'll need to decide if you want to work with a contractor who can assist with design, make those choices on your own, or hire a designer for that element of your project. Especially when you're doing a large remodel, such as an add-on or a full-home renovation, you'll need plans drawn up before you get started.
To get started, ask questions like what type of projects the contractor normally does, how long they've been in business, and if they have insurance for themselves and their subcontractors. You should also ask if they provide design services, if they have a long-standing relationship with their vendors, and how often they'll be on-site.
Expand your knowledge: Home Renovation Interior Design
A walk-through consultation with the contractor can also help you get a better feel for their personality, work style, and communication style. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of how they'll work with you throughout the project.
It's also essential to have a clear understanding of the project timeline, budget, and scope of work. A contract should outline the agreed-upon job price, job plan, expected period for completion, and payment plan. This will help protect you from any potential issues or misunderstandings down the line.
Here are some key questions to ask a contractor before hiring them:
- What type of projects do you normally do?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have insurance? And are your subcontractors insured?
- Do you provide design services?
- Do you have a long-standing relationship with the vendors you use?
- How often will you be on-site? Are you my main contact, or will another person head up the day-to-day project management?
- What sort of timeline do you expect for this project?
- How far do you live from my job site?
- How do you structure your pricing?
Remember, a contract is always wise when there's a lot of money involved, usually an addition or a whole house transformation. It should state the agreed-upon job price, job plan, expected period for completion, and payment plan.
Reviews and Ratings
Eric's Home Renovation has a rating of 3 out of 5 stars, based on 2 reviews.
The reviews mention a bathroom renovation project that was never completed due to a lack of a quote being sent. On the other hand, another reviewer had a very positive experience with Eric, noting that he did a fantastic job and was less expensive than most contractors in the area.
Here are the details of the reviews:
Eric's work was valued at $2,000 according to Sophia's review.
So Helpful
Having a helpful team can make all the difference in a project's success. Eric Edwards Construction Company is a great example of this, as they were instrumental in helping a client choose the right stall fronts and accessories for their barn.
Their team stayed within the client's budget by finding great deals and cutting expenses. This allowed the barn to be completed on time and within the client's means.
A helpful team can also provide valuable guidance throughout the project. Eric and his team were available to answer questions and offer suggestions, making the process much smoother for their client.
In the end, the client was thrilled with the result, saying "I absolutely love it!" This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Eric Edwards Construction Company.
3/5 Based on 2 Reviews

A 3/5 rating based on only two reviews can be a bit misleading, but let's take a closer look. The average rating of 3 out of 5 stars is based on two reviews.
Eric's Home Renovation Reviews have some mixed feedback. One reviewer, Jael V., had a negative experience, stating that Eric never sent a quote after visiting their home. On the other hand, Sophia gave Eric a glowing review, saying he did a fantastic job and was less expensive than other contractors in the area.
The reviews were left on different dates, with Jael V.'s review posted in April 2024 and Sophia's review dated August 2022.
Renovation Planning and Execution
It's essential to be realistic about a renovation timeline, considering that few projects can be done well in a rapid window. Be prepared for potential delays, especially if you're working with an in-demand contractor.
Don't underestimate the importance of asking references about a contractor's punctuality, especially if you'll need to leave your home for the duration of the renovation. This is crucial for major projects like Admire's, where the family rented a nearby apartment for five months.
Knowing that delays are possible, it's a good idea to plan ahead and account for unexpected setbacks, such as an ice storm that can delay the project by a few weeks.
Set Realistic Timeline
It's essential to be realistic about a renovation timeline. A trustworthy contractor can usually finish the job on time if there are no unforeseen circumstances.
Make sure the proposed timeline works for you, as there aren't many projects that can be done well in an especially rapid window. Spinazzola notes that sometimes there are supply chain delays, although it's not as bad as it was a year or two ago.
Ask references about whether the contractor finished projects on time, especially if you have to leave your home for the duration of the renovation. This is crucial for major projects that require extensive work, like the Admires' 3,100-square-foot house renovation.
Knowing that delays are possible is key to planning ahead. Admire had planned for a six-month lease, which ended up being a good idea due to the ice storm that hit during their renovation.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Home Renovation Timeline
Kitchen and Bath Remodel in Ahwatukee
In Ahwatukee, a kitchen revamp can be a game-changer for a home's functionality and aesthetic.
Removing walls can create a more spacious area, as seen in the kitchen revamp where the wall between the entryway and kitchen was removed.
New lighting can brighten up a space, and installing it in the kitchen was a great decision.
The "Themar grigio Savoia Matte 3x12" porcelain from Arizona Tile works perfectly for the backsplash.
The 32" Single Basin 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink creates a useful and handy area.
The new "Aspen Beachcomber 6x36" porcelain tile from Arizona Tile, along with the "Platinum Quartzite Natural Stone" countertops give a brighter and updated look.
In Ahwatukee, updating a master bathroom can be a great way to increase a home's value.
Installing new cabinets with roll under for wheelchair access can make a big difference in a bathroom's functionality.
New countertops can also make a big impact, and the homeowners in this project chose "Platinum Quartzite Natural Stone".
Construction and Renovation
Eric's Home Renovation has a BuildZoom score of 0 because their license status couldn't be verified. This means they're not ranked in the top 50% of 128,670 Washington contractors.
To ensure you're hiring a qualified professional, it's recommended to double-check their license status with your local licensing authority. You can also use BuildZoom's bidding system to be matched with licensed professionals in your area.
If you're considering hiring Eric's Home Renovation, it's essential to verify their license status first.
Home Renovation Employees
Eric's Home Renovation currently holds a license, ERICSHR798LM, but it was Inactive when we last checked.
A license is required for any work that impacts the value of real estate in Washington.
Licensed contractors in Washington are required to maintain a bond and liability insurance for the protection of consumers.
Eric's Home Renovation has a $12,000 bond with Hartford Insurance Co The Midwest.
This bond provides consumers with financial recourse in case they perform defective work or violate license regulations.
Licensed general contractors in Washington are required to maintain a $12,000 bond, while specialty contractors are required to maintain a $6,000 bond.
Consider reading: Home Renovation Insurance
Eric's Home Renovation holds a $1,000,000 insurance policy with Developers Surety & Indem Co.
This insurance policy includes a $50,000 property damage policy and $200,000 public liability policy, or a $250,000 combined single limit policy.
The BuildZoom score is based on a number of factors, including the contractor's license status, insurance status, and verified work history.
Before hiring a contractor, it's essential to verify their license status and insurance coverage.
Twin Cities Custom Home Remodeling
Twin Cities Custom Home Remodeling is a great option for those looking to upgrade their living space. The team at Lindus takes ownership of the project and shows pride in their work.
Their attention to detail is impressive, as seen in the example of the squeaky floor that was thoroughly addressed until resolved. The carpenters, brick layer, and log guys all did awesome work on the project.
Communication is key in any construction project, and Lindus' Eric stands out for his ability to add value to the project by suggesting improvements that the homeowners hadn't thought of.
Construction
Construction can be a daunting task, especially if you're hiring someone to do the work for you. It's essential to check the contractor's license status before making a decision.
If a contractor doesn't have an active license, it's a red flag. This is because a license ensures the contractor has the necessary skills and experience to complete the job safely and to code.
In Washington state, there are 128,670 registered contractors, but only the top 50% are ranked based on their BuildZoom score. This score is calculated based on various factors, including license status.
If you're considering hiring a contractor like Eric's Home Renovation, make sure to double-check their license status with your local licensing authority. This will give you peace of mind knowing that the contractor is qualified to do the job.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind when checking a contractor's license status:
- No active license on file is a major concern.
- Verify the license status with your local licensing authority.
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