Homeowners use different approaches to work with remodeling contractors and other pros. These remodeling styles can have varying effects on a project as well as overall satisfaction with the work. Your remodeling style informs your level of involvement throughout the project. Find out if you’re a manager, micromanager or hands-off remodeler (or somewhere in between) by learning more about these remodeling styles.
The Manager
As the homeowner, you are considered the overall manager of your home improvement project. You’re involved in keeping records and tracking expenses, and you have a clear idea of where things are going. When there are unexpected challenges, you communicate with your contractor and express your concerns.
If you have a project manager to supervise the team and the project, you can still act as a manager — particularly the kind who oversees the big picture. However, make sure that it’s clear to all the parties involved where your role ends and where your project manager’s role begins. Typically, the role of project manager is taken on by your contractor, a designer or an architect.
To ensure that responsibilities don’t overlap and the right people will be accountable, schedule a meeting with your contractor and go over each party’s responsibilities.
The Micromanager
Micromanagers often have a bad reputation but there are also benefits to using the micromanager approach in your home remodeling project. For instance, micromanagers tend to be very detail-oriented and proactive. They usually do well sticking to a deadline, and they don’t get easily overwhelmed by pressure.
The downside, however, is when micromanagers become overly involved in the project and try to control every small detail. This can slow down the process and frustrate the pros working on the project, ultimately creating an unpleasant experience for everyone on the team. If you’re the micromanager type, you can avoid these negative scenarios by naming your top priorities. For all the other minor details that aren’t included in your top-priority list, let your contractor take the wheel.
The Hands-Off Remodeler
Taking a hands-off approach means putting your complete trust in your contractor. Professionals appreciate this style because it helps speed things up. Nevertheless, there are also drawbacks. There’s always a 50/50 chance that the project will either end up great or not to your satisfaction. The former is possible if you’re capable of making prompt decisions and letting your contractor handle the rest. But if you’re indecisive about multiple things, this can cause delays and you may come off as apathetic — which can then impact your relationship with your contractor.
It usually helps to maintain some level of involvement, especially during the planning stage. Take the opportunity to ask questions and voice your concerns and ideas. Also, schedule regular check-ins with your contractor to stay updated on the progress of the job and any important matters.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Whether you’re looking for kitchen or bathroom contractors, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Ogden can help you with your project. Our team is passionate about improving homes. Call us at (801) 436-8886 or fill out our contact form to start a conversation!