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Preparing For Renovations

Are you preparing for a new construction project? Have you hired a licensed contractor? Whether it’s a small or large construction, managing a project can feel like a full-time job, and you are on the right track if you’re looking to hire a licensed general contractor to take up the responsibility for every aspect of your new construction build, from the footers to the roof.

Hiring a licensed contractor can ease your mind knowing that they will ensure all aspects of the project are up to code.  Hiring a contractor that has a worker’s compensation policy and a liability insurance policy to protect themselves and you against any unforeseen mishaps that may occur on site.

Working close with a licensed contractor will also guarantee that you have access to high-quality materials for every aspect of the job, which they can get at a more favorable rate and save you quite a bit of pocket change. Now that you have that covered, there are a few more things you need to do when preparing for a home renovation that will make the whole experience stress-free and perhaps a bit enjoyable.

  • Ask the licensed contractor you are considering to work with to let you see one or two of their project sites to determine that they are indeed good at what they do and most importantly, they are in good standing with their existing clients.
  • Be realistic when it comes to the scope of work that will go into your new construction by having a realistic timeline, budget, cost of material and equipment, as well as labor. Prepare yourself for the unexpected.
  • Invest in quality items or materials that will serve you longer, especially when it comes to common room items such as appliances or high-quality flooring and cabinets. The items you purchase should withstand years of use and cost you nothing to in the way of maintenance.
  • Determine some tasks that you can do yourself during the construction period to not only save time and labor costs but also to make you part of your new construction project.
  • It’s also prudent to consult with a few contractors who can give you a different approach to some designs on your board and advise you what is feasible and financially sound to avoid being entirely disappointed in your new construction project when it’s all done, and you can’t do anything about it.

 

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

 

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Professional Kitchen Renovations Can Increase Your Home’s Value

A kitchen renovation is one of the smartest ways to add value to your home and you can achieve this by hiring a licensed contractor. Real estate experts agree that a well-designed and updated kitchen attracts buyers. Whether you are doing a complete kitchen remodeling or simply making a few updates, homeowners can improve the appeal of their home and increase the value with a professional kitchen renovation.

According to the industry, a homeowner can expect to recoup about 95% of the cost of a major kitchen remodel. This makes it one of the best remodeling choices for homeowners looking to increase their home value. A modern kitchen makes your home more valuable and more attractive to buyers when the time comes to sell.

The kitchen is the heart of a home. It is a place to gather as a family, visit with friends, and share meals. Because it is one of the most popular rooms in the house, kitchens tend to suffer a lot of wear and tear over time. Countertops, appliances, and flooring can get worn and damaged, decreasing the style and appeal of the room. Below are some common areas of interest that are addressed in remodeling.

  • Kitchen renovations may include knocking down walls to add space or redesigning the layout to improve functionality. Homeowners have the chance to design the room they have always wanted. Make the most of it by increasing storage space and improving traffic flow.
  • Consider upgrading your appliances to high-efficiency models. Not only can they save you money in energy costs, you may be eligible for tax rebates. Be sure that your electrical wiring and plumbing are properly installed by a licensed contractor to prevent damage and ensure that your appliances will work correctly.
  • Your existing cabinets can be re-surfaced, or you may decide to replace them entirely with new ones. A licensed contractor will help choose a countertop surface that will blend well with your cabinets. Stone, especially granite, used by a licensed contractor when doing your kitchen remodeling gives your kitchen an up-scale and classic look that will last the lifetime of your home.
  • Hardwoods and ceramic tiles are the most popular choices for kitchen flooring. Both materials are attractive to buyers and need very little maintenance to look good.
  • Lighting is extremely important in the kitchen. Ambient lighting will keep the room bright. Task lighting illuminates the food prep and cooking area. Under cabinet lighting can accentuate the beauty of your room.
  • A wall color that will accentuate your new cabinets, flooring, appliances, and countertops. Consider the addition of a colorful backsplash or accent wall to create a focal point in the room.

Kitchen remodeling is a large project and can take months to fully complete. Discuss a timeline and a specific budget for your project with a licensed contractor so you will know what to expect.  Not every homeowner is willing or able to complete a large-scale kitchen remodeling. Even minor improvements can change the entire look of your kitchen and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Whether you are selling your home or simply want to improve the room’s appearance, small projects like painting or replacing outdated appliances with a licensed contractor can make a big difference to the value of your home.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

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Kitchen Remodeling: Find Top 5 Kitchen Designs That Last the Test of Time

When homeowners are considering renovations, it is always important that they consider three things:

  • Will the renovation fit our families current and future needs?
  • Is this design on the renovation universal? Will it appease future buyers if we consider selling the home?
  • Does this renovation offer a good ROI? Can this renovation stand the test of time or is this trend one that will be outdated quickly?

Kitchen remodeling can be quite the venture both in time and resources.  It is crucial that when meeting with a contractor regarding your new kitchen design that you have a meeting of the minds regarding different elements that are incorporated.  For a kitchen design to work over time it must be function while combing trendy elements with elements that have proven to “age” well.  True professionals will be able to blend elements that allow you to have the kitchen of your dreams today that will easily integrate updates and trends that come and go within the next ten to twenty years.

Elements That Withstand the Test of Time in Kitchen Design

Invest in Natural Elements

When planning your new kitchen consider adding in natural elements such as marble, hardwoods, brick, and stone.  These are all components that make a design timeless and add to the aesthetic value of a space.  These elements can be seen in kitchens and homes from the 70’s that can be used in current renovations without hassle in uniting them in the overall design.

Natural Lighting

Consciences contractors will always take into consideration the placement of the kitchen within the home to maximize the amount of natural light within the space.  Kitchens that are bright and well light always appear cleaner and more inviting.  Natural lighting can be combined with light fixtures within the kitchen to accentuate the space to give the allusion of openness.  An open kitchen concept is one that has been and will remain popular throughout time.

Indoor Plants

In order to create a timeless design within your kitchen it is important to blend two elements: simplicity and function.  Indoor plants have always been popular amongst homeowners.  One way to incorporate this into the kitchen space in the form of an herb garden.  This is a practical, functional way to bring greenery into the kitchen without it looking out of place.

The key element when it comes to any renovation in your home is ease of use.  Simplicity is always in style.  Homeowners want a space to be functional, stylish, and comfortable.  The best feeling ever as a homeowner is to have guests walk into your home and feel content being there.  This is what contractors aim to do in all of the renovations that they have the privilege of being a part of.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

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2018 Trends In Kitchens and Bathrooms

It appears that more and more homeowners are shifting the design perspective to hiring contractors that can handle the design and building all in one.  Many problems can arise when homeowners have to communicate with two different professional parties, designers and contractors, so it is a special era of home construction when one contractor does it all.

Designers often blame contractors when problems occur while contractors return the blame to designers when the job goes sideways.  It is a better situation for homeowners to get the best contractor and designer for the job from the same spot.

2018 Trends in Kitchen Design and Remodeling

Decades ago, the kitchen was hidden in the back of the house. It was a place where meals were prepared and dirty dishes were washed. Fast forward to 2018 and the kitchen has a much different role. Today, the kitchen is the focal point of the home, the place that brings everyone together at the start of the day or after a long day way.  Now instead, the kitchen is paraded in all its beauty and warmth at the very center of the house.

Kitchens have changed a lot over the decades and planning for your kitchen remodel is very important. Technology advances and changing social dynamics have contributed greatly to the rise of the modern kitchen. There is a far bigger focus on open concept homes that revolve around the kitchen so everyone can be together. As with any modern design trend, clean and simple styles have become favorites for homeowners with natural light becoming an essential aspect of the overall look and function of the kitchen space.

With advice from design experts, here are the top trends in kitchen design we expect to see in 2018:

  • Kitchen Cabinet Colors: White, Gray, and Dark Paint Colors are Elegant and Beautiful
  • Streamlined Designs, Materials, and Textures
  • Effective Storage Solutions and Additional Cabinetry
  • Kitchen Appliances: New Styles and Preferences
  • Hardwood Flooring is Popular as well as Ceramic Tiling
  • Single Level Multi-Purpose Kitchen Islands for Storage Solutions
  • Pet – Friendly Kitchen Spaces

Top Trends in Bathroom Designs and Renovations for 2018

For most people, the bathroom has become a personal sanctuary. It is not just a place to wash off the grit. It is your personal spa, where you relieve the stress of the day and relax. So, when you are renovating your bathroom, you are not just creating a practical bathing space; you are creating a place when you can get away and be yourself. Every aspect and component has to come together towards this goal while also meeting the practical needs of bathing.

If you are building a new home or planning a renovation, the following list of the hottest upcoming bathroom design trends in 2018 should get your creativity going.

  • The Bathroom Needs to Be Efficient and Comfortable
  • Toilets are More High Tech Including Seat Warmers, Automatic Lids, Slow Close Features, Adjustable Dryers and More
  • Brass and Gold Tone Fixtures are Making a Comeback
  • Lighting Style Including Light Bars and Wall Scones
  • Under-floor Heating Systems and Under the Counter Appliances
  • Unique Bathroom Flooring Such As: Hexagon, Arabesque, Diamond, Moroccan Fish Scales, and Chevron Patterns in New Colors and Textures.
  • Bold Accent Walls & Floors Including Ceramic and Porcelain Graphic Tiles

Conclusion

One common thread has been evident in all home design trends for 2018; homeowners are looking for ways to break from the mold and be unique in their styling. In the bathroom and kitchen designs, they are relying on technology, tiles, and bold accents to make the home more interesting.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Things Needed for New Construction

There are many things that you need to consider when looking into new construction.  First of all it is important to have property in which to get started.  There are various size plots on which to build a new home.  It is crucial that the home is constructed on a plot of land that is an adequate size for the size of the home that is to be constructed.

Once this has been accomplished it is important to make arrangements to find a contractor who will work with you to make your dream a reality.  They can help you make arrangements for materials that are to be used in construction.  You will make arrangements with the contractor for all the things and laborers to be used in the construction of your new construction home.  All of the costs associated with the new construction are calculated by the contractor and told to the homeowner so that they can make proper arrangements.

There are many options available in construction of all types including:

  • Any feature you desire can be added in new construction. Each feature that is added or upgraded from the basic plan initially agreed upon will be an additional cost to the homeowner.
  • A new construction contractor has specific costs that are charged to the homeowner. These charges are the basics that are needed throughout the construction process.
  • The new construction process is time consuming. Homeowners will need to be patient and work in conjunction with the contractor to achieve the smoothest possible build.
  • Contractors will keep you abreast of time constraints and estimates of time in which different process throughout the build will take and when they are expected to be completed.
  • New construction contractors will make arrangements with other contractors who are able to complete the requirements. These are the professionals within the construction industry that specialize in services such as electricians, plumbers, and such.
  • Many experienced contractors in the industry who are ready to work for new construction at any time.
  • It is important to get estimates from these contractors before you begin making your final selections to make sure that you are getting exactly what you want at a price that you can afford.

Some contractors charge more money as compared to others so you must make time to search for a reliable contractor.  When you have found a contractor that you want to move forward with it is time to make arrangements and get things which are to be used then the process of construction will begin.  As you move forward with the build it is important to check in on the progress of the work on your new construction home.

In case you need changes or modifications it is important to contact the contractor that you have hired and they will check the work and make updates as needed.

Learn more about Aspen Construction and the variety of home construction upgrades they provide including: new construction, home additions, bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, and finished basements at http://www.aspencoinc.com/construction.php.  To contact one of our home construction specialists call 517.404.2176 today.

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4 Benefits of a New Construction

A home is more than brick and concrete. The walls, floors, ceilings everything reverberates of your tempestuous life journey.  A newly constructed house is your life’s investment. The new home offers not only safety and amenities but is energy efficient and up to date with the trends.

Of the many advantages of new construction, the one that stands out is, is that you can equip it with the things of your choice. You remain trouble free by not buying someone else’s problems. There are numerous benefits of having a new customs home contractor who would provide you with a house of your dreams.

Let’s just visit the many advantages of purchasing a newly constructed home.

  1. The Taxes Can Be Lower

There is an old saying that two things are imminent: death and taxes. With new custom home contractors, there are slight amendments which are beneficial. Taxes on a new home are significant low for the first two years, compared to the resale house. Many of you question this privilege. Here is how it goes. The taxes on your home are based on city, school, county, and special budgetary needs for the coming year, this is to create a market value rate. This rate is then applied to all the properties in the county according to your houses estimated value.

  1. Promoting Energy Efficiency

The new construction is built in a way to be more energy and resources efficient. The consumers ask for greener homes and building which then turn the constructors to the conventional way by utilizing more of the natural resources. Solar shingles, tank less water heater are just a few examples of the taken steps.

  1. Low Maintenance

With the resale house or a fixer-upper, everything seems okay until you move in. And that okay can cost you a fortune. Sometimes they snap at the most inconvenient and infuriating times, leaving you flustered. There is a little mess to take care of, and every new thing promises to run for at least a decade. The warranties further keep it light on your budget if the need arises for maintenance. Mechanicals and appliances are all newly built and serve for a longer period of time.

  1. Amenities of Your Choice

With a new custom homes contractor, you can personalize your house. You can add things you wish to and eliminate the ones you want to get rid of. Since it is where you have to live, things that suit you and your needs are planned and installed accordingly without the need to dig around later.

In addition to all the above advantages, if you wish to sell a newly built house it attracts the buyers. It helps you ink down a lucrative deal. When you think of constructing a house, you get to choose the location of your choice. A new construction home is also the beginning of your life whereas the resale homes are built by the previous residents to suit their lifestyle.

It was thought that buying a newly constructed house is a luxury only the rich can afford, but now times have changed, the house of every range and size is available in the market.

Learn more about Aspen Construction and the variety of home construction upgrades they provide including: new construction, home additions, bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, and finished basements at http://www.aspencoinc.com/construction.php.  To contact one of our home construction specialists call 517.404.2176 today.

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Changes in New Construction

New construction homes offer many distinct advantages over older ones.  While purchasing a residence that has previously been lived in might be easier than building one of your own from the ground up it is crucial that you take a patient approach when making your next investment.

Older homes can develop structural issues that can cause the value of the home to decrease over time.  On the other hand, new construction homes are in the best shape they will ever be in.  With any purchase there are pros and cons and the same is true of your next residence.  It is important to make a good decision for your family that you spend time research the best option for your ever growing needs.

Sometimes the cost of buying a piece of property that is currently available is actually greater than the cost associated with building the home.  Other times there are good deals on existing structures that make it worth buying a previously owned home and remodelling it.  What you decide to do is completely based on the current state of the housing market when you need to decide whether to buy or build.

In a seller’s market a new construction home may offer more value in return for your investment.  The land on which you build a new home should also be one of the deciding factors in the value of your new house.  You are considering every option when looking to purchase property to build on.

New construction homes are always fully customized to the owner’s exact specifications.  When you hire a contractor and start planning for your dream home you can rest assured that you will be getting exactly what you want.  If you are interested in multiple fireplaces, a spacious sunroom, an in-ground pool, or a finished basement, you can make it a reality.  You are starting from the ground up and can have whatever your budget allows.

In new construction you can get exactly what you want down to the most tedious of details.  You can choose the cabinets, the floors, the number of showers and exactly what kind of moulding to use.  This is not always the case in a pre-existing home.   Although you can remodel there may be some times where you are stuck with a truly terrible design choice that was made by the previous owners.  You may pay more for remodelling an existing structure rather than starting from scratch with new construction.  Homeowners buying a pre-existing structure need to know that they may end up paying more than anticipated when you purchased the home in the first place.

There is a great deal to consider with home remodelling and with new construction.  Think about all of the pros and cons when you are looking into moving and considering a new construction or previously owned home.

Learn more about Aspen Construction and the variety of home construction upgrades they provide including: new construction, home additions, bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, and finished basements at http://www.aspencoinc.com/construction.php.  To contact one of our home construction specialists call 517.404.2176 today.

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Top Trends in Home Improvement & Remodeling

You can’t say we have returned to the times when housing was booming, but with 1,226,000 homes built in the last year, we’re not far from it. With Americans projected to collectively offload over $300 billion in home improvements over the next year the housing industry is currently looking pretty good.

So what are homeowners getting into this year as far as home improvements go? Here are a few favorite trends that tipped to being routinely installed this year.

Smart home technology is the latest in home improvement industry trends. The projection is that 33% of houses will get connected with at least one smart device, if they haven’t done so, with home security topping the list. The rise of voice activated technology is also leading the charge to make smarter homes more desirable.

Big homes are on the down swing as more people are choosing less square feet for their living space, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This new trend means a home modeler contractor needs to get more creative with their floor plans while still fitting in lots of storage space and energy efficient appliances.  New construction homes of 2017 are smaller than those seen in the past.

Matte finishes are taking over from the more sparkly finishes such as chrome and sparkly granite. Black stainless steel is now the favorite finish of choice. Matte is big in the kitchen, but it’s also filtering down to smaller appliances and other areas of the house such as bathroom faucets.

Even toilets are getting the treatment these days. Why settle for the standard porcelain throne you have to clean yourself when you can get one of the newer models that clean themselves. Toto’s Neorest 750H toilet has “Actilight cleansing technology” which treats the bowl with a mist before each use with the aim of preventing sticking waste. There’s also a built-in UV light that supposedly accelerates decomposition of inorganic substances.

There’s a lot to get excited about in home improvement this year, so if your goal is to live cleaner and better, then this is the year to start your remodeling plans.

Learn more about Aspen Construction and the variety of home construction upgrades they provide including: new construction, home additions, bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, and finished basements at www.aspencoinc.com.  To contact one of our home construction specialists call 517.404.2176 today.

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Dreaming of New Construction

It’s not enough to have a house these days. Homeowners must be able to turn a house into a home that reflects them.  Your home speaks of who you are. In your home there are two major areas that stand out, areas people remember more than others they are the kitchen and bathroom.

When you are thinking about your new construction home it is important to not only think about the design of the home but also the design in these two spaces in particular.  More than any other rooms in your home, your kitchen and bathroom areas need to offer be spaces that define you and your family.

Let’s begin with the kitchen.  Why is the kitchen so important?  Every home has a central spot where people gather for most it is the kitchen.  With the kitchen being one of the most frequented spaces in the house it is important that it gets special attention in the construction of your new home.

It is one of the busiest places in the house and often full of people and activity.  It doesn’t only serve to function as an area to prep, cook, and eat food.  It actually services as an additional family room.  Many families find that they spend most of their time hanging out in the kitchen.  It is a central area for conversation and meeting up with one another between tasks.   It is important that this space is easy to use and maintain.  Continuous use of a kitchen space often makes it appear bland.  Permanent stains on cabinets and flooring date the space.  Therefore it is crucial to use materials in the space that are easily cleaned and simple to update as needed.

Next up is the bathroom.  Why is the bathroom so important in new construction?

You can’t prepare for your day or relax after a long day without going into the bathroom. Imagine yourself soaking in the hot tub or taking a bath after a long day. This is only possible because you have a bathroom.

The bathroom is also used constantly with water touching every part. This makes it a habitat for mold, spirogyra or even bacteria which can affect the paint, silicone or tiles.

Although you can clean it up with bleach, in some cases, it is better to remodel the bathroom.

Have an idea of what to do. You need an architect or designer to help you. They have the skill and expertise to counsel you that you are doing the right thing.

I always advise my clients to let the plumbing stay in place. If you move it, you might spend more than what you may ever imagine which can run into thousands of dollars. You can change your toilet seat instead of replacing the position. If you don’t want tile, there are wood panels you can use.

If there are parts of your bathroom you want to keep hidden, use a mirror in an attractive frame.

Creating your dream house doesn’t have to be stressful especially if you’re modelling your kitchen or bathroom. just know what you want and follow these steps.

Learn more about Aspen Construction and the variety of home construction upgrades they provide including: new construction, home additions, bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, and finished basements at www.aspencoinc.com.  To contact one of our home construction specialists call 517.404.2176 today.

 

 

 

 

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Should I Renovate My Current Home or Buy New Construction

Ask any contractor that specializes in home construction what the most common question is that they are asked and I guarantee is will center around buying new construction or renovating a current space.  The problem with this question is that both options make sense depending on several factors.

The first and most important factor is to determine if renovations are even an option.  Is your home structurally sound?  If the home was properly built and has been maintained you can almost guarantee that the primary structure of the home is solid.  Thus meaning renovation would not only be possible but a solid option for homeowners that are overall pleased with their current home.

Contractors will inspect the homes foundation, outer walls, roofing, and support beams to ensure that your home can handle the renovation or addition you are proposing.  More often than not if your home is in a desirable location and you are overall happy renovating will be a better choice than new construction.  It allvieates the need to move and let’s face it hiring a professional contractor to knock a few walls down is less expensive and less time consuming than moving an entire household.

There are many things about a home that start to bother us over time and lead us to believe we would be better off starting from scratch by building a new construction home.  The reality is that most often your wish list involves on a few minor changes, repairs, and upgrades that a professional can easily and inexpensively provide.

In certain situations new construction is the only way to go.  If the home that you are currently in has a weak or failing structure that is in need of repair remodeling may not be cost effective.  If the home is in a location that you don’t love it may be better to find a piece of property and start from scratch.

If the renovations that you are looking to accomplish involve a great deal of electrical or plumbing needing to be changed, new construction might be a cheaper option.  In order to make a decision on whether you should look into building new construction or renovate your current home it is crucial that you take a look at all the pieces in the puzzle.  There is not a one size fits all answer.  While one family may decide that a new fresh space is exactly what they want while others may adore the idea of the convient option of upgrading the space they are in.

Learn more about Aspen Construction and the variety of home construction upgrades they provide including: new construction, home additions, bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, and finished basements at www.aspencoinc.com.  To contact one of our home construction specialists call 517.404.2176 today.