Attic Conversions Pt. 1

If you're like us, you love to watch a project go from design or idea, to completion. Especially those projects with a unique or cool concept - like an attic conversion. Just in case you're not familiar with an attic conversion, it is a renovation project that takes the dark, cramped space above your house - your attic, and turns it into a useful room. Attic conversions are on the rise due to families' expanding needs, and the relatively low cost of the project. In fact, the national average for return on investment for an attic conversion is 93.5%*. Homeowners are opting to utilize their current space for kid’s bedrooms, a family den or gameroom, or home office. Here is a sampling of pictures from a recent attic conversion, where the home owner converted his attic into a stylish, entertaining area.

In the rest of our Attic Conversion series, we'll take you through an attic conversion that is under construction, and presents unique challenges. It takes a firm with experience in these types of projects to handle it just right, because the typical attic houses the water heater, ducts, plumbing, etc., that may all have to be relocated and rerouted. Also, the pitch of the roof, the floor support, and electrical wiring also have to be considered when redesigning the space. Speaking with a structural engineer, with experience in attic conversions will help you answer questions about functionality, and feasibility as they arise. Our board certified structural engineer is available to come to your home when you're ready to talk about your own conversion. Please call us at 713-532-2526 or visit our website http://www.incrediblerenovations.com/.

Read the article on Mother Earth News that provides more information and answers questions about attic remodeling.

*HGTV.com

FAQ's - The Process

Completing your remodel project is a relatively simple process with Incredible Renovations. Most remodel plans begin with requesting bids from 2 - 3 different contractors - which requires a visit to your home. At the initial visit our structural engineer and project manager review your ideas for your space and take pictures and measurements at your home. We then create a few different design and budget options for you to review at our office, via a 3D virtual walk through. You then leave with the project estimate and proposal in hand for you to review. Here are a few questions you may ask before selecting your contractor:
Are you licensed and Insured?Yes. Incredible Renovations is licensed with the state of Texas and carries Liability insurance.
Does the remodeling contractor offer warranty on all workmanship? Yes. We offer 1 year warranty on all work, 2 year warranty on major equipment and systems and 10 years on structural.
Will the contractor provide a contract that clearly states what they will do, how much it will cost and a completion date? Yes, Incredible Renovations is one of only a handful of remodelers that guarantees in writing a scheduled completion date or we pay fines for everyday we are late in completing your project.
Do I need to pay any money in advance to begin my remodeling project? Yes. Depending on the size and nature of the project; we typically require 15-25% of the total project to be paid at the signing of the contract. Why? This money is used to mobilize, purchase materials and schedule the trade partners. The balance due is normally staged based on construction progress.
Are permits really necessary for my project? In most cases Yes. Normally permits means a third party is reviewing the plans and inspecting the work and that will provide you piece of mind that your project is being performed safely and up to proper codes.
Who pays for all permits required for a remodeling project? The cost of the permits in included in the contract price. Therefore Incredible Renovations pays for the permits related to the job.
What can cause delays in my project? Unfortunately, delays can happen. Delays are normally caused by special ordered items or items not in stock. Also, changes of the original design and change orders by the home owner can cause delays.
Does the remodeler require that changes be in writing to eliminate misunderstanding and unexpected cost? Yes, this would eliminate surprises at the end of your project and allow you to make sound financial decisions. For example, upgrades or major changes along the way.
Will I be able to select the actual products for my project? Yes. You will select all specialty products like doors, hardware, trim, windows, siding, plumbing and electrical fixtures, flooring and paint colors with our guidance. These are normally chosen to closely match the existing items in your home or specific design tastes.
Can we stay in our home during the remodeling process? Yes. Most of our customers stay at home during a remodeling process. We try not to disturb your family and your normal day to day activities.
Please email your questions to: Paulina@IncredibleRenovations.com

The Cost of a Remodel

Are you considering remodeling your home? Has your family out grown its space, are your floors or finishes dated, or do you just need your home to keep up with your pace? There are dozens of reasons why people consider remodeling their home, in fact 36% of US home owners are considering a major remodel. You may be asking yourself, "Is it better to remodel, or just buy a new house?". The answer to that question is undoubtebly "Value." What is your home's value on the market? What will the value, or cost of return be on the renovations? But most importantly - What is your home's value to you? In deciding on whether you want to invest in upgrading your home or build an addition, you have to think about not only the process of selling your home, but how you feel about leaving it. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each decision. Remember, you can improve the value of what your home means to you by renovating. In a renovation you can choose exactly what you want. New homes tend to be boxy and lack character, unless you design it yourself. A renovation or a custom build, may be what is needed to keep the charm you love about your current home. We've included a chart below to help you get a realistic view of how much a renovation may cost you. Keep in mind the ranges are for smaller projects through luxury projects. For example: A 1/2 bath addition can be $20,000 while a master bath additon with a frameless shower, granite counter tops, etc. may cost as much as $45,000.
Cost estimates of a renovation in Houston:

Bathroom addition: $ 35,000 < $45,000

Bathroom remodel: $20,000 < $35,000

Attic conversion: $25,000 < $65,000

Attic with addition: $75,000 < 175,000

Deck addition: $10,000<$23,000

Covered patio: $16,000 < $28,000
Family room addition: $25,000 < $60,000
Home office remodel: $10,000 < $22,000
Major kitchen remodel: $45,000 < $75,000
Minor kitchen remodel: $10,000 < $25,000
Master suite addition: $30,000 < $48,000
Roofing replacement: $6,000 < $25,000
Siding replacement (vinyl): $8,000 < $12,000
Siding replacement (Hardie): $9,000 < $14,000
Sunroom addition: $20,000 < $30,000

Garage apartment: $35,000 < $95,000

Second story addition: $60,000 < $100,000
Window replacement (wood): $12,000 < $21,000
Window replacement (vinyl): $9,000 < $18,000
Sources: Remodeling Magazine, Feb. 2010
www.IncredibleRenovations.com/estimateyourproject