Trends in Real Estate: Remodeling – What you see is what you get? Or is it?

 By Daniel Boylan, President DLB Custom Homes, Inc   •  Nov 4th, 2011

As we have all seen, the lure of a “good deal” evokes emotions that often change the perception of our decision making process.    If you are considering buying a luxury home currently in foreclosure, short sale or other distressed situation – with aspirations to remodel or fix-it up to your liking – contemplate the following:

 

1. Hiring an Architect and/or Interior Designer while in the negotiation process to conceptualize the ideas you may have along with exploring the potential pros and cons of being able to get to where you want to go.
2. Consulting with a Builder, preferably a general contractor with experience in the luxury home market to take a look at the current condition, the quality of the workmanship, potential pros and cons along with getting some preliminary pricing on the changes you would like to make.
3. Hiring a Structural Engineering to look at the “bones” of the project.   Often, the Architect and/or Builder can recommend a Structural Engineer (SE) for you depending on complexity of design, etc.

Although, it may cost you a little up front – it is far better than running into costly surprises in the long-run.  By taking the steps to engage in quality design and building professionals prior to, and post negotiation/sales process – you can eliminate many of the unforseen circumstances that may lie ahead.