The trend today for home remodeling has changed. Many buyers are looking for much different improvements then those in the past. Their attitude and approach is much different then before the economy hit the ground.
It used to be that if a homeowner wanted a new kitchen or new bathroom they simply asked for everything they could think of that they saw in a magazine. Now, homeowners are evaluating each fixture, cabinet, and appliance in terms of energy efficiency, brand name, warranty, consumer report, and finally cost. They are not looking for the cheapest, and they are not looking for the most expensive. They are asking if the product is rated as an Energy Star. They are asking how long it will last and what the warranty is. They are comparing these products to all others.
It seems like the smarter shoppers are the ones that are buying now. They don’t want the products that won’t last as they don’t seem to be planning to resell their home soon. And they are checking on all references the contractor has to offer. They know not to hire someone that does not have the credentials, experience, license, insurance and not a local contractor. They want to know who is doing the work, how long they have been in business, and is the contractor focus on the customer or the sale. They are not in a hurry to commit. They are planning their projects and making all the selections before the job starts.
They also seem to be more concerned with doing the right thing in terms of our environment. Can the cabinets be recycled? Can the appliances be recycled? Are there any items that can be reused either on their job or someone else’s home?
Many of our customers are concerned that they are using a contractor that is local. Not just for the good of the Santa Clarita Valley economy, but, also for the control over the project.
Not only is it a good time to buy because there are less jobs, thus more attention to each customer’s project, but many of the fair weather contractors have already gone under.
The hot buttons for remodeling are in order of interest: New water saving bathrooms, New Energy Efficient Appliances, New Energy Efficient Windows, Increased attic insulation, Tankless water heaters, Low flow faucets and toilets.
Randal G. Winter Construction Inc. is located at 28348 Constellation Road, Suite 810 in Santa Clarita. License 395715. For more information, please call 661-799-8089 and visit www.RGWinter.com.