The initial hurdles were determining the right design and putting something on paper that could be affordable to build. My initial estimates were very close to what I was hearing from prospective contractors who I had scoped out for the work. The next hurdle was selecting the contractor to do the work.

I met with some very talented and experienced patio and wall installers who had been referred to me by other people or who I had sought out myself from doing some general searching on websites and through trade associations. I ran through my own mind all the things that were important to me in who would be doing this work- fair price; ability to meet my schedule; quality of work and overall professionalism. Then it struck me that all these companies had these qualities. Stuck in the back of my mind after all the reviewing of estimates, designs, referrals and insurance paperwork was the fact that I was going to require the work be done by the person I felt I could trust the most.

So, after conducting my research – including checking references; seeing examples of their work and following up with consumer advocacy groups like the Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce and Angie’s List – I narrowed my pool of choices down to two. I had one last meeting with each contractor and asked them why I should trust them to do this project.

Contractor “A” replied with statements about their experience, the great price they were giving me and the fact they were a large company with plenty of manpower to get the job done. This all made me feel very good but not necessarily any more trusting in this company.

When I met with Contractor “B” and asked the same question, the response was straight forward- “I’ve been in business for almost ten years and, in that time, I’ve built my reputation with lots of very satisfied clients. I will not tell you that every project went off without a hitch or that there has never been a minor delay but I always kept the client abreast of what was going on and, in the end, I always made it right. I will not tarnish my reputation that I’ve worked so hard to build by doing one client wrong.” My search had ended. This contractor realized the importance a little personal reassurance and communication would have in keeping me happy as a client.

That is why I enjoy working for a company like Foster Remodeling Solutions. There is no project worth sacrificing 28 years of satisfied clients and stellar reputation to cut corners or do less than what we said we would do. Every happy client is a referral to the next prospect and no matter what experience, manpower or cost a company can provide nothing can replace the feeling of trust in the contractor you choose- Trust to do the right thing and do it well every time.

Our handymen are gifted with skills in multiple areas, such as plumbing, carpentry and electrical work. This means you don’t have to call three different companies for three different repairs, just call Foster Remodeling. We do all handyman jobs on a time and materials basis. When you need a service call, just let our friendly staff know exactly what has to be done. We will send out a professional who is well-versed in making the repairs and installations needed for all of the projects you request.

Does your kitchen need new countertops? We can do that. We also install interior trim and hardwood flooring. Broken doors, windows and shutters are routine tasks for our handyman staff. We also replace plumbing fixtures, such as sinks and toilets. These are tasks that require both sound physical shape and the tricks of the trade required to make them fit as they should with existing plumbing and décor. The next time you have a nagging project that needs attention and you can’t do it yourself, give us a call.

Foster Remodeling knows cost is an important factor in any renovation project. That’s why we offer discount home improvement with our do-it-yourself design program. Choose from a variety of project packages that are 15 to 30% off regular pricing. Our carpentry team will do the installation. The Express Solution package offers materials that have already been delivered to our warehouse, so we have it in stock. This saves time, with an estimated 4 to 6 weeks on project completion. We have also contacted our regular suppliers to receive special discounts on particular products, and then pass on the savings to our discount home improvement clients.

You design the project by using our DIY Estimator on your home computer. First, take the dimensions of the project room. Choose from one of our pre-designed layouts, which will save money on the cost of an architect’s plan. Next, plug in the preferred services package. The third step is the fun part. Choose different fixtures, cabinets, tile and paint color from the assorted selections in the estimator. This is where you can keep track of expenses.

One of the highest costs associated with Northern Virginia home renovations are the materials. Some are more expensive than others. For example, choosing one type of wood over another may have a dramatic effect on the price. Sinks can range in prices depending on fixture and faucet materials. For the most part, the more ornate the design, the more they cost. Different manufacturers’ models offered will change the price as well. You can still build a quality remodel with out spending a fortune. It’s a matter of personal preference. If you like two choices the same amount and one is considerably less, be practical.

Another way to reduce construction costs is to determine what features are must-haves and which are nice-to-haves. If cost is the difference between going with something new or keeping what you have that is falling apart, opt for the new pieces at an affordable price and make additions later, when it’s in your budget.

After choosing all features and options, submit the discount remodeling package to us. We will review the details and start processing. Someone from our staff will review your project and give you a call to discuss the details.

Another way to save money on a remodeling project is by having a reputable company do the installation. At Foster Remodeling, we have the experience and know-how to do the job right the first time with quality workmanship. This saves time and, as a result, money.

Do You Need To Replace Everything?

When kitchen remodeling, it’s exciting to replace everything and start new. However, by only replacing what you really need to, you can save on your kitchen remodel cost. Think about whether you really need to replace everything or if you can just fix up what you have. For example, you could replace your countertop, but just paint or refinish your kitchen cabinets instead of replacing them completely. This allows you to enjoy having a new kitchen while keeping your kitchen remodel cost down.

Color

To make a big kitchen remodeling change without spending a lot of money, you can make a dramatic difference by just changing your wall color. Paint is an inexpensive way to completely change a room. For an even bigger change, consider painting an accent wall a bold color or adding some accents that complement your new wall color. Look for yard sale goodies and flea market treasures as an affordable way to make an impact with color.

Lights

kitchen light

Nothing can brighten up a dreary kitchen like new light fixtures and it’s a great way to liven things up without adding much to your kitchen remodel cost. Kitchens need lots of light and if yours is lacking in natural light, bring in fixtures like track lighting where you can light the dark spots. Under cabinet lighting is great for work areas, but it can also provide a decorative touch if you use it to highlight decorative pieces.

Fabrics

When most people think about decorating with fabric, they usually think about the living room, dining room, or bedroom, but the kitchen is a great place to use fabric. Use a beautiful tablecloth to dress up an old table. Not only will it hide scratches, it will provide a totally new look. Consider a skirt to cover your island and liven up a window with fresh curtains. Don’t forget cushions for your barstools or kitchen chairs and even towels, oven mitts, and potholders. To keep your cost down, repurpose throws and sheets or purchase leftover lengths of fabric from discount fabric stores.

Floors

If you don’t shop smart, floors can be one of the most expensive parts of your kitchen remodeling project. For a tile floor on a budget, consider going with clay tiles instead of porcelain tiles. You’ll find they look identical. The only difference is the color goes all the way through porcelain tiles. These kitchen remodeling tips may not seem complicated, but if you consider them, you’ll find you dramatically reduce your kitchen remodel cost.