I'm planning to buy a fixer upper that needs to be completely renovated, and I'm looking for some advice. Should I hire a general contractor (GC) from the start to help make my vision a reality, or is it better to hire different specialists for various jobs (like an architect, structural engineer, and interior designer)? I'm also curious about any potential pitfalls to avoid during this process. Any tips would be hugely appreciated!
4 Answers
You might want to gather some friends to help with the demo and cleanup. Taking down load-bearing walls requires some caution, of course, so just be careful not to compromise the structure. Also, be sure to power down the utilities before you start. Honestly, demo can be really fun! Just keep your budget in mind because once you start opening up the walls, you're likely to uncover more issues. It's also the perfect time to get your architect on board for new designs after the dust settles.
Considering this house needs a complete gutting, I'd suggest finding a reputable GC to consult with before you buy. They can help identify any potential money pit issues. If you decide to go with a GC, they can manage the various subcontractors needed for the job. Just keep in mind that hiring a GC can add to your costs. You'll face challenges, so be prepared for some delays and setbacks, but a good GC can help keep things moving in the right direction.
That makes a lot of sense! ?
Before you make a purchase, it's a good idea to consult with a general contractor (GC). Share your renovation ideas with them to gauge the typical costs per square foot for a project like yours. And, honestly, it's wise to double whatever budget you have in mind for renovations; unexpected costs add up quickly with older homes. If you're seeking your dream space, consider whether starting fresh might actually save you money since full gut renovations can be super expensive, especially if you're not a DIY pro.
So is it usually cheaper to just demolish and rebuild rather than gut and renovate an existing house?
If you're new to renovations, definitely get a contractor involved early on. They can catch costs that might not seem significant at first but could hit you with a major expense later on. Plus, take any estimates you get and add about 30% just to be safe. If the renovation work sounds overwhelming, you might be better off just focusing on a new build from the ground up, especially if you can't handle a lot of the work yourself.
Thanks for the heads up!
I wish I could do that! Sounds cool, but I just don't have the time.