Love the Home You're In?

The Psychological Appeal of Remodeling

And if you can't be with the one you love
Love the one you're with
Love the one you're with

--lyric, Crosby Stills Nash & Young

How is the recession affecting people's spending?

For one thing, they're doing a lot less of it (logical, if you're making less, have less, etc.).

For another, in a time of stress, people seem to be seeking out things that are familiar -- and avoiding (still more) change. (2012 Presidential slogan: 'Enough Change Already!')

So, while moving seems like a big decision, my guess is that remodeling seems less daunting -- even if the total dollars involved are about the same (a major remodel can easily trip $100k or more).

The net result? Instead of looking for their dream home, more people are trying to create it, right where they are . . .

Contractor Etiquette

Good vs. Not So Good Contractors

[Editor's Note: see "Giving Good Invoice" for an update to this post.]

In my various capacities as a Realtor, remodeler/rehabber, homeowner, and neighbor, I've witnessed a wide range of contractor etiquette.

At one extreme, there are contractors who show up late, leave early, and seem to spend the time in between listening to inappropriate --and very LOUD -- music. At best, their work (and prices) are so-so . . and they leave your home a mess.

At the other extreme, there are contractors who are consummate professionals from start to finish. They do excellent work at a fair price, start and finish the job on time, etc. After they're done, you'd never even know they were there, but for the completed project.

At least so far, you'd guess my neighbor's new contractor -- who I've independently heard good things about -- is in the latter camp.

I knew my neighbors were bumping out their Kitchen, because I'd shown them a few homes last Fall when they were in "buy or remodel" mode.

Still, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a "heads up" letter of introduction -- complete with ear plugs(!) -- from the contractor last week.

The letter, addressed to the immediate neighborhood, explained that the contractor's employees would be working on the block the next few months, and would do their best to minimize the disruption, debris, etc. If there were any issues or problems, we were invited to call the project manager.

It may just be smart PR with an ulterior motive (getting more business) . . . but it's pretty effective PR.

I'm sure my neighbor will let us know in a few months if the positive first impression was warranted.