Remodeling contractors aren't green monsters. They work on a small net profit margin, and whether or not they make a profit is often determined by things they can’t control. Step back for a minute and look at the world from a contractor's point of view.

One quarter of a contractor's costs are for materials. These costs are predictable. Once your project is clearly defined by a designer and he has all the dimensions and product specifications he needs he can price the materials pretty easily.

But three-quarters of his costs are for labor—time—and this is where he has to gamble. He's going to estimate how long it will take him to complete your project, but he doesn't know for sure whether the window factory will deliver on time; whether the plumber will show up when he's needed; whether you'll allow him to work without interruption; or whether he'll find something inside your walls that will cost him a few days of delay and make him miss his completion date.

You can help lower his risks (and your costs) by making all of your design decisions, and getting a very detailed set of drawings that describe exactly what the contractor has to do, before you even invite him to give you a price. The more details you can give him, the more easily he can estimate how long it will take him to finish. Remember that time (the cost of labor) is his biggest concern.

In addition, when all of the details are spelled out ahead of time, your contractor will give you a date he can (probably) stick to and the two of you will understand the project exactly the same way … which means you'll be working collaboratively. He'll make a profit and you'll save a lot of money.

MORE INFORMATION

You’ll find lots more information about the home remodeling process in Managing a Renovation: Staying in Charge and Out of Trouble, our friendly and comprehensive homeowner’s guide to remodeling project management. Download the table of contents and a sample chapter, or go to the order form to purchase it.

We offer ready-to-use construction forms, including a complete remodeling contract, in our Bookstore, as well. Have a look.

And, you may want to look at our list of More Resources for some great design ideas.

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