Contractersguide2017

Contractor’s Guide

2017

Supplement To: Today’s News-Herald & Parker Pioneer

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Lake Havasu City, AZ w w w. A i r C o n t ro l A Z . c o m ROC # 105758 • ROC #105764 • NV LIC # 0077925

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Encouraging signs on the construction front

By HALEY WALTERS

TODAY’S NEWS-HERALD

It’s a good time to be in the home renovation business.

Home sales and new building permits in Lake Havasu City have been on the mend following the recession, and numbers for 2016 indicate another year of steady growth.

At the end of 2016, city officials expected to close out the year with a little more than 300 new single family home permits issued — and real estate sales were expected to reach $520 million by the year’s end. That’s a modest increase from prior years, but still lags behind the city’s pre-recession days when upwards of 1,200 new single family homes were permitted each year.

Additionally, city officials say they’ve seen surging numbers for tenant improvements at commercial properties and home renovations, particularly RV garages.

As the demand for housing heats up, some construction contractors report it’s been a struggle to keep up.

“It’s been hard to find people who want to work and who also have skills necessary to do the job,” Colorado River Building Industry Association Director of Operations Lisa Theophilus said.

The city has reported growth in single family home permits every year since 2009, at that time new home building bottomed out at 59 permits issued in the entire year due to the recession. The steady growth reported since has city officials optimistic that the new year will continue on the same note.

“If you look back at trends, it looks like the city is fullsteam ahead,” Building Division manager Jeff Thuneman said.

City staff is now gearing up for a busy 2017. The biggest project to face is a proposed senior living community on Swanson Avenue near the ASU Havasu campus, Thuneman said. Lake Havasu City Properties real estate agent Carl Flusché said it’s a seller’s market in Havasu, with home prices expected to continue to rise.

“From the listing price, [sold prices] are only going down about four to five percent. So in most cases, they’re getting their asking price, and I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if in the next few months we start seeing multiple offers on properties again,” Flusché said.

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Contractor Guide 2017 • 3

COMMENTARY

Contractors association helps protect homeowners

By Lisa Theophilus

COLORADO RIVER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

We would like to introduce ourselves to you. We are the Colorado River Building Industry Association.

We are a non-profit 501(C)6 corporation and have been serving our members and the community since 1974.

Our membership consists of licensed contractors and none are handymen.

We stress that fact to protect homeowners.

As a licensed contractor they must be insured and bonded. This protects the homeowner if any work done is not to code or is

substandard. By using a licensed contractor, should the work not be done correctly, the customer can file a complaint with the Register of Contractors.

The CRBIA stresses the importance of anyone seeking construction, remodel, or home repairs, go to the Register of Contractors website, azroc.gov, to check on a contractor’s license, any pending complaints, proof of insurance and bond. There are also valuable links on the site for tips for hiring a contractor, complaint forms, etc.

We also enjoy partnering with associate members such as title & mortgage companies, banks, engineers, suppliers, furniture

and designer companies, etc. We host an annual home show, golf & bowling tournaments, member dinners and so much more.

If you are a homeowner or commercial builder you can place your plans in our plan room and we can put them out to bid to our members so that you can receive bids from qualified contractors.

It saves you from spending a lot of time trying to find a contractor/sub-contractor that may or not be qualified for the work you need to have done.

We also offer services to the general public such as printing of plans, contracts, laminating and much more.

Come by the office and we can give you a tour of the printing services that we can help you with as well as giving you a list of our members to make it easier for you to find those licensed contractor’s you are looking for.

Lisa Theophilus is president of the Colorado River Building Industry Association. Contact her at lisat@crbia.org or 928-4537755.

Tips to find the right contractor Because of the considerable financial investment homeowners must make when improving their homes, it’s important to find a contractor you can trust and feel comfortable with.

The majority of professional contractors are trustworthy and willing to work with homeowners to help them design the homes of their dreams. But there are still some tips homeowners can keep in mind as they begin their search for a contractor.

• Work only with licensed contractors. Licensed contractors have been verified as legitimate through local government oversight.

Unlicensed contractors may not be insured or bonded.

Licensed contractors often are subjected to criminal background checks as well, calming homeowners’ fears about inviting strangers into their homes.

• Ask for recommendations. Word-of-mouth is great when looking for contractors.

Oftentimes, a contractor’s best friends are his past clients. Ask friends or neighbors for recommendations on local contractors, inquiring about prices as well as each particular contractor’s demeanor and openness to suggestions.

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Let me climb the ladder for you!

Upper Limits 928-208-5759

4 • Contractors Guide 2017

Month Maintenly c Servic e Availabe le

CONTRACTORS GUIDE 2017 LIST PROVIDED BY THE COLORADO RIVER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Havasu Balloon Festival & Fair Inc. ...........(928) 486-7979 Smart Moves Advertising ............................(928) 505-0451 Western Arizona Humane Society .............(928) 855-5083 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty ......................(602) 826-4461 ABC Supply ...................................................(928) 855-8383 Academy Mortgage Corporation ...............(928) 846-6302 Accurate Professional Land Surveying ......(928) 505-2570 Accurate Measures, LLC ..............................(928) 505-2393 Advanced Homes Inc. ..................................(928) 855-6370 Advantage Windshield & Glass ..................(928) 855-7004 Air Control A/C Inc. ....................................(928) 680-0600 Alamo Drywall .............................................(928) 855-2932 All American A/C ........................................(928) 855-4549 A.L.L. Roofing Materials of LHC ...............(928) 453-7080 Alpine Communications Inc.......................(928) 453-1714 America’s Pest Control .................................(928) 505-8700 Arizona Decorative Concrete .....................(928) 854-2700 Arizona D.C. Plumbing, Inc........................(928) 505-1751 Armor Fence Co., Inc...................................(928) 453-1006 ARQ Land Surveying ...................................(928) 680-0669 Authentic Painting & Coatings ...................(928) 486-3710 AVC Alarm & Systems .................................(928) 302-9252 Axiom Construction ....................................(928) 279-0230 AZ Sun Decking ...........................................(928) 855-6458 Azteca Wall Systems, Inc. ............................(928) 486-4780 Banker Insulation .........................................(928) 680-4888 Ben Franklin Plumbing ...............................(928) 855-0002 Better Plumbing By Farr Inc .......................(928) 680-9725 Bill Chambers Roofing.................................(928) 453-5319 Black Opal Construction .............................(928) 542-0431 Blind Design, LLC ........................................(928) 855-0330 Bob’s Cabinets & More Inc. .........................(928) 505-5502 Budget Blinds of Lake Havasu ....................(928) 854-7979 Bullet Proof Systems ....................................(928) 846-1032 Burns Builders & Real Estate ......................(928) 855-8222 Buxton Drywall Services, Inc......................(928) 453-5023 Callagy Construction ...................................(928) 486-1416 Campbell Redi-Mix ......................................(928) 855-6535

CONSTRUCTION INC

Canyon Landscape & Maintenance ...........(928) 855-6085 Castle Rock Door, Moulding & Hardware (928) 667-5025 Chamber Of Commerce - LHC ..................(928) 855-4115 Chicago Title .................................................(928) 855-4196 CM West-Arizona ........................................(928) 453-8160 Cobra One Painting .....................................(928) 716-3725 Coldwell Banker Commercial ....................(928) 302-5823 Colorado River Communications ..............(928) 505-7301 Concepts in Construction LLC ..................(928) 680-4822 Cooley Construction Inc. ............................(760) 948-8400 Craig Plumbing .............................................(928) 453-7189 Craig Fire Protection, Inc. ...........................(928) 453-7185 Culligan Of Havasu ......................................(928) 855-8061 Desert Floors-Carpet One ...........................(928) 855-8114 Desert Construction ....................................(928) 757-2213 Desert Land Group ......................................(928) 854-5436 DH Design (Dream Homes Design)..........(928) 846-0897 D K Construction .........................................(909) 731-2225 D. L. Campbell Co., Inc. ..............................(928) 855-6535 Done Right Cleaning Resources .................(928) 855-8244 Double R Engineering Services Inc. ..........(928) 854-8800 Durham Construction .................................(928) 667-2530 Elite Landscape .............................................(928) 862-6416

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4000 N. HIGHWAY 95 | LAKE HAVASU CITY, AZ Contractor Guide 2017 • 5

CONTRACTORS GUIDE 2017 LIST PROVIDED BY THE COLORADO RIVER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Esmay Electric, Inc. ......................................(928) 855-7375 Essential Drywall LLC .................................(928) 854-3352 Fast Line Parking Lot Striping ....................(928) 208-6283 Fayette A/C & Sheet Metal ..........................(928) 854-7766 Form-A-Fab, Inc. ..........................................(928) 855-4164 Foster Framing, Inc. .....................................(928) 855-7526 Fred Grover Painting....................................(928) 680-0797 Frontier Concrete .........................................(928) 855-2265 Frontier Communications...........................(928) 453-0567 George Bryant Construction, Inc. ..............(800) 276-3517 H & H Development ....................................(928) 692-8041 Havasu Doors, Inc. .......................................(928) 855-2400 Havasu Pest Control, Inc. ............................(928) 855-1054 Havasu Home Inspection Co. .....................(928) 855-1054 Havasu Audio Video LLC............................(928) 855-3111 Haxton Masonry...........................................(928) 344-6174 Hazardous Prevention Training .................(928) 486-7869 Homes By Wiesner .......................................(928) 680-1894 Home Depot ..................................................(928) 764-5111 Horizon Community Bank .........................(928) 854-3000 Hub Construction Supplies .........................(928) 453-9109 Independent Electrical Supply ....................(928) 855-8131 Indusco Concrete .........................................(928) 505-8707 Inland Prestige Properties ...........................(760) 559-0554

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6 • Contractors Guide 2017

Intertech Construction ................................(928) 486-9548 Jack Pots Portables, Inc. ...............................(928) 680-0804 Janecek Homes, Inc. .....................................(928) 486-5645 J. D’uva Service Plumbing, Inc....................(928) 505-1751 Jewett Acoustic..............................................(801) 318-7127 Jewett Construction .....................................(928) 453-1459 Jim’s House Of Glass ....................................(928) 757-1171 Johnson-Manley Lumber ............................(928) 680-9000 John Smith Backhoe/Dumping & Septic...(928) 453-9007 Just Garage Doors.........................................(928) 855-6331 K2A Construction ........................................(480) 519-9225 Kear Civil Corporation ................................(623) 580-1100 Keller Williams AZ Living Rentals.............(928) 453-6111 Kitchen & Bath Concepts ............................(928) 453-8484 Kittrell Jensen Contractors ..........................(702) 638-8547 KJ93 ................................................................(928) 855-9336 LHC Convention & Visitors Bureau ..........(928) 453-3444 Lake Havasu Mechanical Contractors .......(928) 854-2345 Lambert Custom Builders, LLC..................(928) 855-8392 LHC Construction Inc .................................(928) 855-1028 Lake Havasu Main Street .............................(928) 846-5101 LHC Fire Fighters Association ...................(928) 486-5973 Liesen Communications..............................(928) 855-5971 Jim Luna.........................................................(928) 351-7188 Mansell Welding Inc. ...................................(928) 855-6743 Masonry and More LLC ..............................(928) 846-7576 McCormick Construction Co. ....................(928) 763-2272 McGovern Concrete Inc. .............................(928) 680-9448 MDIC .............................................................(928) 453-6330 Mercury Air Conditioning & Heating .......(928) 854-4101 Metro Tax, Inc. ..............................................(928) 680-1444 Michael Alan Furniture ...............................(928) 855-6067 Mohave State Bank .......................................(928) 855-0000 Mohave County Pools and Spas .................(928) 680-7665 Mohave Solar.................................................(928) 680-0040 Mohave Block................................................(928) 565-5133 Mohave Electric ............................................(928) 505-3209 Mohave Mist..................................................(928) 302-3500 Montes Roofing Inc. .....................................(928) 855-2883

CONTRACTORS GUIDE 2017 LIST PROVIDED BY THE COLORADO RIVER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Morgan Electric ............................................(928) 486-0714 Mountain Desert Landscaping ...................(928) 764-1157 Multer Electric ..............................................(928) 293-0810 Mychal Gorden Design, Inc. .......................(928) 230-9876 NFP Property & Casualty ............................(928) 855-3081 NSC Certified Public Accountant, LLC.....(928) 453-2290 Oasis Floors &Design Center .....................(928) 680-0550 Oxley Construction ......................................(928) 855-3063 Palmieri Construcion Inc. ...........................(928) 486-9618 Paradise Homes of Havasu, Inc. .................(928) 680-0722 Parker & Desert Pest Control .....................(928) 680-2847 Partnership for Economic Development...(928) 505-7333 Patio Paradise, LLC ......................................(928) 854-1122 Phoenix Wholesale, Inc. ..............................(928) 527-3023 Pinnacle Technologies, LLC. .......................(800) 949-5293 Pioneer Title Agency ....................................(928) 855-9191 Pioneer Earth Movers, Inc...........................(928) 854-5035 Pirates Den RV Resort .................................(928) 846-9545 Pitzer Air Conditioning ...............................(928) 855-0190 Plans Plus Designs ........................................(928) 680-7577 Prielipp Construction, Inc...........................(928) 453-9711 Primo Tile & Stone LLC ..............................(928) 766-2812 Pro-Build .......................................................(928) 855-4061 Professional Air Balance ..............................(928) 328-1670

Professional Engineering Services Inc. ......(928) 453-9955 Pro Line Construction Services LLC .........(928) 854-9460 Pro Stone Source...........................................(928) 302-1012 Protek Construction.....................................(928) 757-7231 Pro Tech Roofing ..........................................(928) 453-8306 RDS Quality Construction LLC .................(928) 486-4660 Red Mountain Rentals .................................(480) 477-9400 Ricoh USA .....................................................(928) 486-0953 River Roofing, Inc.........................................(928) 453-7663 River Valley Window & Door LLC ............(928) 505-8198 River Palm Landscaping ..............................(928) 680-8608 River Ridge Builders ....................................(928) 486-7852 River Paint & Supply ....................................(928) 453-7100 R. J. Perry Custom Framing ........................(928) 486-6423 RLB Electric Inc. ...........................................(928) 706-6557 RnR Ceilings & Walls LLC ..........................(928) 486-1187 Roman Constr., Inc. / Campbell Electric ..(928) 453-7520 Ross Plumbing Service.................................(928) 855-9266 Royster Equipment LLC ..............................(928) 920-8298 Rudy Glass Co. ..............................................(928) 855-9263 Running Bear Development LLC/Topock 66 ............ (928) 768-2325 Rust’s River Glass, Inc. .................................(928) 669-2804 Sabre Building Corp. ....................................(928) 505-4522

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CONTRACTORS GUIDE 2017 LIST PROVIDED BY THE COLORADO RIVER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Sam Nichols Electrical, Inc. ........................(928) 855-4121 Samons Air Conditioning ...........................(928) 855-3302 Sanders Sweeping .........................................(928) 680-0574 Selberg Associates Inc. .................................(928) 855-6544 ServPro of LHC/BHC/Kingman ................(928) 855-9111 Seven Star Construction ..............................(928) 854-8000 Silver State Componets ................................(928) 453-2722 Sky High Crane & Rigging ..........................(928) 854-1720 Skyline Plumbing Contractors....................(928) 854-2699

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S. M. D. Construction ..................................(928) 680-1233 Sound Bank Electronics...............................(928) 855-1129 Southwest Plastering, LLC ..........................(928) 855-7528 South Coast Construction, LLC. ................(928) 202-0832 Speciality Air Conditioning ........................(928) 680-1119 Springberg McAndrew Financial Svcs. Inc.(928) 855-9421 Stucco Tech of Arizona LLC .......................(928) 453-4623 Superior Southwest Roofing & Const. .......(928) 453-0003 Taz Concrete, Inc. .........................................(928) 453-1838 The Door Shop ..............................................(928) 505-4142 The Shops at Lake Havasu ...........................(928) 764-2400 Tiger Trenching ............................................(928) 453-1755 TNT Roofing, LLC .......................................(928) 453-3925 Today’s News Herald ....................................(928) 453-4237 Tri State Equipment & Sales ........................(928) 680-6748 Tri-Sun’s Engineering Inc ............................(928) 855-6236 Trophy Homes, LLC .....................................(928) 855-7526 T. R. Orr, Inc..................................................(928) 757-1174 Truly Nolen of America ...............................(928) 855-5191 UniSource Energy Services .........................(928) 681-8962 United Rentals...............................................(928) 758-5757 Vanderboom Construction .........................(928) 453-5719 Wachtel Biehn & Malm................................(928) 855-5115 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage ......................(928) 854-5015

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8 • Contractors Guide 2017

928.680.0550 585 N. Lake Havasu Ave.

CONTRACTORS GUIDE 2017 LIST PROVIDED BY THE COLORADO RIVER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Wells Fargo Bank ..........................................(928) 854-7334 Western Alarm Services, Inc. ......................(928) 855-5608 Western Technologies, Inc. .........................(928) 758-8378 Windholz Construction...............................(928) 486-7503 Yuma Valley Contractors.............................(928) 217-2300

More tips on finding the right contractors • Get written estimates.

Before hiring a particular firm, get written estimates from several contractors. Some contractors will charge fees for the estimate, but they must inform you of those fees before the estimates are provided. Compare estimates so you can get a better grasp of how much your project will cost. While cost is important, try to avoid choosing a contractor based on cost alone, as a good rapport with a contractor who may be more expensive might make spending a little more money worth it.

• Make sure the contract is specific. When you choose a contractor, make sure the contract he provides is specific, going into detail about the specifics of the project. This contract should spell out the

materials and equipment that will be used, as well as the final cost of the project, the payment schedules and the work schedule.

• Keep track of all paperwork and pay by check. Once you sign the contract, create a folder where you can store all paperwork. Scan each document so you can store them on your computer as well. When payments must be made, never pay in cash. Do not pay for the entirety of the project upfront, opting instead to pay at predetermined intervals spelled out in your contract.

Nerves often come into play when hiring a home contractor, but homeowners who take a careful approach to the hiring process will likely end up hiring a trustworthy contractor who does great work.

DID YOU KNOW?

to get an idea of how much they will spend on labor when hiring professional contractors.

Various factors, such as geographic location and the level of customization a project requires, influence labor costs.

Homeowners can expect to pay a lot for labor on projects that require considerable customization. Though that can be a tough pill to swallow, complex projects may stretch if not exceed homeowners’ own abilities, making the cost of customized labor well worth it. Solicit estimates from numerous contractors before making your decision, recognizing that the least expensive estimate is not necessarily the best option.

Labor costs can account for a substantial amount of the cost of a home improvement project.

Estimates regarding the average labor costs of such projects range from 25 to 60 percent.

Such a range can make it hard for homeowners to determine their budgets, and high labor costs may compel some homeowners to tackle projects on their own.

While DIY projects can be rewarding, the potential for costly mistakes is considerable, especially for homeowners with little experience. Labor costs should be included in contractors’ estimates, but homeowners can ask around

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benlnd@hotmail. com Contractor Guide 2017 • 9

THIS OLD HOUSE Renovation transforms 10-year-old retirement home into updated retreat

By KATHY VAN MULLEKOM After purchasing our retirement home, we spent three months renovating the 10-year-old house.

Getting from the start to finish line is like rolling a giant snowball downhill — the project keeps getting bigger and bigger. Like many houses, it looks like a movein dream in the real estate marketing photos. In reality, it’s like most 10-year-old houses — in need of TLC and personalized updates.

The rancher features a master suite of two closets, full bath and laundry on one side of the floor plan, and a suite of two bedrooms, office

and full bath on the other side. Much of the downstairs square footage is devoted to a no-wall area that encompasses kitchen, dining, living room and soon-to-be sunroom. An oversized foyer welcomes guests; and a room over the garage is used for a pool table and storage cabinets.

The two-car garage house with covered front porch is built on a bricked raised slab, something we have never lived with before. The exterior is a brick front with foam-backed vinyl siding on the other three walls.

LESS BECOMES MORE At first glance, our new home looks like it needs only

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10 • Contractors Guide 2017

Res.Lic.#55348-C17

FLOORING: After ripping out old wood flooring and carpeting, we had a flooring vendor install moisture-blocking padding under a tweedy-brown Berber in the living area and bedrooms. Vinyl locking planks in a hardwood look cover the foyer, sunroom and dining area; a floating tile floor that resembles marble goes in the kitchen and breakfast nook. Hardwood is not our choice because we don’t want anything glued or nailed, making it easier to change flooring in the future. paint and flooring. Those needs, however, quickly evolve into bigger projects meant for the long haul. We knew the HVAC, gas hot water heater and appliances are 10 years old with little life left in them. The light fixtures are outdated, the bathrooms are tired and the closets are

inefficient. The garage is dirty from top to bottom, and the attic needs more insulation. While living temporarily in a furnished condo and all our belongings in storage, we decide to redo the house from top to bottom instead of

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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Contractor Guide 2017 • 11

REMODEL

Continued from page 10 stringing it out over months, maybe years, while living in it. We had three months to change as much as we can, so we focus only on the interior, knowing the exterior can be done after we move in. Ken and I divvy up responsibilities — I research and line up contractor appointments for estimates while Ken supervises tearouts and installs at the house, and helps the painter.

I spend hours emailing contractors with questions and requests, and shop online for best prices and quick shipment to the house.

SCREENED PORCH REDO Between minor jobs around the house, the remodeler transforms a covered screened porch into a sunroom. Three windows between the dining room and porch are removed and a larger archway framed

in. Four oversized Pella windows custom ordered through Lowe’s create a back wall of glass. We hang a beaded board ceiling, one board at a time, and install chair rail with beaded boarding below; the exterior is done in a white wainscoting style that complements the house.

COLOR CHOICES Picking out a paint color is an important but not easy task because the entire house will be painted the same color, and we only want to paint one time, for at least 10 years! We choose bright white in a satin finish for all trim. After putting paint samples on the wall and asking Facebook friends to choose, we settle on Eggwhite, a pale, creamy yellow, that is restful and relaxing. Outdoors, we changed the red garage door to a taupe that blends with vinyl siding and shades on the house.

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12 • Contractors Guide 2017

BATHROOMS The guest bathroom gets an update with new granite counter and sink, Delta faucet and three-sided mirror.

Solid-surface shelves replace the ventilated ones. In the master bathroom, we still plan to take out the garden tub and small shower stall, and instead put in a larger walk-in shower.

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KITCHEN: Fortunately, the maple kitchen cabinets are in good shape, and equipped with pull-out shelves and other niceties. Granite counters were put in recently. A new Delta kitchen faucet complements the deep, wide stainless steel sink. Appliances, however, are bought new, and yellowed recessed light canisters are replaced with all-in-one LED units. In fact, we found long-life, easy-install, all-in-one LED units (never change the light bulbs) for the laundry, closets and garage at Home Depot, where we also purchased ceiling fans, chandeliers and exterior lights in bronze finishes.

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Common mistakes made on home renovation projects Home improvement projects can turn a house into a home. Homeowners plan scores of renovations to transform living spaces into rooms that reflect their personal tastes and comforts.

Homeowners going it alone may find things do not always go as planned. In fact, a Harris Interactive study found that 85 percent of homeowners say remodeling is a more stressful undertaking than buying a home.

But homeowners about to embark on projects can make the process go more smoothly by avoiding these common pitfalls.

FAILING TO UNDERSTAND THE SCOPE OF THE PROJECT Some homeowners don’t realize just how big a commitment they have made until they get their hands dirty. But understanding the scope of the project, including how much dem-

ensure their projects do not drain their finances. If your budget is so inflexible that you can’t afford the materials you prefer, you may want to postpone the project and save more money so you can afford to do it right.

olition and reconstruction is involved and how much time a project will take can help homeowners avoid some of the stress that comes with renovation projects.

For example, a bathroom renovation may require the removal of drywall, rein-

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forcement of flooring to accommodate a new bathtub or shower enclosure and the installation of new plumbing and wiring behind walls.

NOT PLANNING A BUDGET Homeowners must develop a project budget to

MAKING OVERPERSONAL IMPROVEMENTS Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long run have more free reign when it comes to renovating their homes. If your ultimate goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go, and improvements can be expensive. If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers.

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Contractor Guide 2017 • 13

FROM SHABBY TO CHIC How to transform a fixer-upper

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Recognize that not everything must be completely redone. Realize that, in some instances, a coat of paint and some new accents may be all you need to transform a space. For example, if kitchen cabinets are in good condition, see if they can be refaced or painted instead of replaced entirely.

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he real estate market will always have its ups and downs, but real estate is an oft-profitable investment. Real estate investors do their investing for various reasons. Some see a house as a place to hang their hats for years and years, while others look at properties as nothing more than investments.

Buying a home with the intent to fix it up and resell it is called a “fix and flip.” In such situations, investors buy homes at below-market prices before refurbishing the homes with the goal of recouping their initial investment and then some when the homes are ultimately put back on the market. Flipping has become popular for both expert remodelers and novice investors. Investing in a fixer-upper requires a leap of faith and a vision of what the home can look like in the future. Turning a real estate lemon into lemonade requires certain skills and a good measure of patience. The following are some guidelines to get anyone started.

• Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Make an honest assessment of your abilities and which renovations, if any, you can handle. If you are unskilled or inexperienced working with your hands, then it can be easy for an investment property to quickly become a money pit. Before purchasing a property, hire a trained home inspector to tour the home with you and point out all of the areas that will need renovation. With this list, begin getting estimates on how much money the work will entail. Determine if this fits with your budget or not. You do not want to invest so much that it exceeds what you could feasibly recoup when it comes time to sell.

• Overlook cosmetic things when visiting properties.

Cosmetic issues include all of the easily replaceable items in a home, such as carpeting, appliances, interior paint colors and cabinetry. Focus on the bones of the house — the architectural integrity and those little touches that you envision having a “wow” factor.

• Seek the help of experts. Some flippers think they’ll save the most money by doing all of the work themselves. This isn’t always the case. Professional architects, designers and contractors may help you save money. Contractors have an intimate knowledge of where to buy materials and may be able to negotiate prices based on wholesale or trade costs. In addition, experts can help you avoid common pitfalls because they’ve already done this type of work time and again.

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5 things to consider before expanding your home Homeowners who feel their homes are a little confined may be interested in expanding their homes to make them more comfortable and serviceable.

Several questions may come to mind when homeowners are considering adding on to an existing home.

Expanding a home requires careful consideration. While the end results can be spectacular, expansion is typically a long and costly process that will impede on the lifestyles of a home’s inhabitants during the renovation process. Expect loud noises, work crews and sawdust throughout the project. Depending on which areas are being renovated, residents may feel their lives are in upheaval until the expansion project has been completed.

Familiarizing yourself with the expansion process and recognizing potential snags along the way can make planning and coping that much easier.

1. Many homeowners first consult with a contractor when mulling over expansions. However, you may want to speak with an architect first. He or she may be able to suggest renovations that fit with your neighborhood and appeal to prospective buyers when you decide to sell your home in the future.

2. Visit your building inspection or municipal office to learn the local regulations. You want to ensure that any renovations you make are done in keeping with safety codes and laws.

3. While you’re thinking of your neighbors, give them the heads up on your potential plans. This way they will not be surprised by the extra noise and activity when the renovation begins.

4. Remodeling can cost anywhere from $200 to $600 per square foot added. You’ll need to figure out a way to pay for the renovations, and you may consider refinancing your home. Make sure it is a smart time financially to do so based on current real estate market conditions. Also know that additions will likely increase your home insurance coverage needs. Consult with the insurance company about estimated charges and any restrictions they have.

5. Consider a standalone structure when mulling over your options.

Sometimes the cost of putting up a free-standing office or another structure on your property may end up being less expansive than expanding on what you already have. Think creatively and research all of your options before committing to a project.

Additions to a home can be costly — you may want to check with contractors and insurers before proceeding on an expansion project. Also, check with the city to ensure your project is permitted and meets safety codes.

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Why hire a professional landscaper?

It’s difficult to assess just how much landscape improves property values, but studies have that impressive landscaping can add a significant amount to a home’s worth, with some estimates suggesting increases of anywhere from 5 to 20 percent.

Maintaining a property requires more than just pulling the weeds every couple of weeks. Even homeowners committed to making their properties as pristine as possible can run into problems when adverse weather conditions pose a threat to carefully manicured xeriscaped yards and gardens.

Professionals understand the local climate.

Experienced professional landscapers will understand the local climate and the challenges it presents to your home’s outside areas.

While homeowners going it alone may struggle

through a trial and error, experienced professionals are more likely to identify the problem immediately, providing a ready solution that can prevent potentially costly repairs down the road. In addition to maintaining properties, many landscaping professionals have vast experience improving properties through landscape design.

Professional landscapers may have a host of ideas for your property that you might never think of.

Professionals can remove some of the stress of managing landscaping projects. Professional landscapers typically have a network of professionals, including contractors, who they have worked with in the past. Such connections can ensure more complex projects that require both landscapers and construction contractors go as smoothly as possible.

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The dos and don’ts of backyard fire pits Once a rarity, fire pits have grown increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more homeowners turn their homes into private oases. Fire pits run the gamut from the very simple to the more elaborate, and the fire pits homeowners choose often depend on the space they have available as well as their budgets.

But even homeowners without any space or budget constraints should give careful consideration to which fire pit they ultimately install, especially if they plan to make that installation themselves.

DON’T proceed with the project until you have been granted official approval.

Assuming you have the go-ahead to build a fire pit is not the same thing as knowing you have been approved.

DO build on flat ground.

The fire pit should be built on flat ground to reduce risk of accident or injury. A fire pit built on flat ground also

means everyone can enjoy it comfortably and equally once the project is finished. If the ground around the pit is not flat, some people may be forced to sit crooked or lean forward just to enjoy the pit.

DON’T build near flammable structures. Build the fire pit far enough away from existing structures, such as your home, garage or shed, so flickering flames do not catch some wind.

DO choose the right size.

The size of your fire pit will depend on the space you have available, but even if you have a vast swath of space, keep in mind that professional contractors typically recommend building a fire pit no bigger than 44 inches wide. Anything larger can be unsightly and may not appeal to prospective buyers down the road. In addition, an especially large fire pit may result in potentially unruly flames that can present a fire hazard.

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www.ParadiseHomesofHavasu.com 16 • Contractors Guide 2017

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Whether you have one window to replace or several, start by talking to the professionals at River Valley Window Company. We can work with you to determine the best products and options for your home’s architecture and orientation on your property, as well as for your climate and lifestyle. Milgard and River Valley Window Company has a great selection of products in many diơerent styles to brighten any home.

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Contractor Guide 2017 • 17

Make the most of small living spaces Tiny houses are a recent phenomenon and have spurred many businesses — from builders to decorating experts — looking to connect with consumers who want to go small. The small house movement advocates for living simply in small homes, some of which can be as small as 100 square feet or less.

Although living in a tiny house is not for everyone, many people prefer smallspace living to living in larger, more spacious homes and apartments. For those looking to make the most of their small living spaces, there are ways to make such living arrangements feel larger.

• Light is your friend.

Establish adequate lighting in a room that includes at least three working lights.

Varied light sources from different angles will eliminate dark corners and shadows

that can make a space feel smaller. Lighting also can draw the eye where you want it and distract attention from the room’s flaws.

• Make use of vertical space. Homes where space is at a premium may have limited storage areas. An often-overlooked storage option is vertical space.

Space above doors, shelving, and areas above cabinetry are ideal places to store items. Use hooks on walls to

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keep belongings off the floor.

• Choose light-colored paint. Choose lighter hues for your home furnishings and wall colors. You do not have to limit this to white (unless landlords require white walls). Pale colors will help reflect light and can make the room seem larger than it really is. Using a dark color on the flooring can make other lighter shades really pop in contrast.

• Conceal the clutter. If you cannot keep personal belongings to the utmost minimum in a home, experiment with clever ways to keep items out of sight.

Furniture that serves dual purposes can help with this task. Storage ottomans will conceal small toys or linens and also provide seating options in a room when guests come over. A dresser can be used as a dining room buffet piece, and the numerous drawers can hold knickknacks or silverware.

Furniture with built-in, hid-

den storage is well worth the investment when living spaces are limited.

• Create dual-purpose rooms. Lack of space means getting creative with the space you do have. A nook in your bedroom can be devoted to a miniature home office. Perhaps you can establish a crafting center in a portion of your laundry room. Garages have long served as catch-all spaces in homes. Apart from storage, they can be subdivided for home gyms or even a place to gather and watch a ballgame.

• Hang mirrors to “expand” rooms. Mirrors can trick the eye into believing there is more space in a room. Mirrors melt away room borders and can accelerate the flow of light.

Hanging them throughout your home can make spaces seem larger.

• Think about built-in furniture. Traditional furniture may not be practical for small spaces and can waste a lot of room. Custom-built furniture is often the way to go to maximize the area you do have. Employ a little do-it-yourself initiative as well, customizing items for the perfect fit.

• Work with a designer.

If you’re having difficulty making a small space work for you, consult with an interior designer or a contractor for some ideas.

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Converting garages into livable spaces Expanding a living space can be expensive, and a more affordable option may be converting existing basement or garage space into something more livable.

Garages already are built on a foundation, have four walls and a roof overhead, so a garage-conversion project is merely a matter of turning this utilitarian area into a living space.

Before beginning the renovation, homeowners should consider the benefits versus the cost of converting the garage. For those who are planning to grow old in a house, a garage conversion can be a worthy investment.

But those who intend to sell their homes rather than retire in them may learn that a converted garage can affect home value and make it less desirable at resale.

Compare your home to others in the area and see what your neighbors have done.

If converted garages are the norm where you live, your own renovation may fit in with others.

Always apply for the proper permits. It’s best to go by the book so that work can be done in a proper manner

and be inspected for safety.

Many homeowners hope their garage-conversion projects will make their garages seem like a seamless part of the rest of the house. To do so, you will need to remove evidence the space was once a garage. Slab floor will need to be raised and insulated.

Walls also will need to be insulated and finished to improve comfort and soundproofing. Many garages do not have windows, so for the garage to function as a renovated space, windows may need to be added.

One of the biggest transformations will come by way of modifying the garage door entry. Some homeowners prefer to leave the existing door so that the home still has the appearance of a garage from the curb, while others remove the garage door and rebuild the exterior wall so that it has a window or another architectural element.

An architect can help suggest design elements that will camouflage the original garage look and make the space seem like it was always part of the main living area of the home.

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Contractor Guide 2017 • 19

The dos and don’ts of kitchen remodels

Engineering, Inc

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According to Remodeling magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report,” a major kitchen remodeling project should enable homeowners to recoup 74.2 percent of their initial investments. Kitchen renovations have long been a safe way to improve the functionality and value of a home. But not every kitchen project is a guaranteed winner. Homeowners may inadvertently make changes that end up sticking out like a sore thumb rather than improving the space. Take a look at these kitchen remodeling dos and don’ts to guide your next undertaking.

DO consider the way your kitchen will look with the rest of the home. Keep architectural integrity in mind when designing the space. A farmhouse sink and country cabinets can look out of place in an ultra-modern home.

DON’T overlook the importance of a seasoned designer or architect. These pros will know the tricks to maximizing space and achieving the ideal layout of appliances and may be able to recommend local contractors and vendors.

DO look beyond surface details to the structural integrity of the design. The kitchen should be functional, long-lasting and beautiful.

DON’T design just for today, but look to the future as well. Unless you are willing to spend $50,000 every five years, look for styles and materials that will last for the long haul.

Older homeowners may want to make adjustments now that address mobility issues down the road.

DO work with what you have. A complete demolition and renovation is not always necessary to achieve the desired results. Only invest in major changes if something is not working or is unsafe.

Otherwise, minor upgrades may do the trick.

DON’T over-improve the space. A fully equipped commercial kitchen may be handy for a professional chef, but the average person may not need an industrial hood and indoor pizza oven. When you make excessive improvements, you may not be able to recoup as much of the money spent because your home will not be on par with the values of homes in the neighborhood.

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Due to the cost and time involved with securing building permits, some homeowners tackling a remodel project may skip this step so they can begin the project promptly. However, this can end up being a costly mistake. Permits might seem like a nuisance, but they actually protect homeowners in various ways.

Permits provide a blueprint by which contractors and do-it-yourselfers must complete renovations. Because inspections will take place, there is no wiggle room. Shortcuts often translate into subpar work that may lead to malfunction and injury in the long run. Safeguarding against poor workmanship means homeowners can feel confident in the work being done.

As inspectors go through their checklists, they may notice things that were done incorrectly and will offer advice about how to mend the problem before it becomes a larger headache.

If left unchecked, an electrical error could lead to a fire or another dangerous situation.

Expect the unexpected when renovating a home One only need travel through communities to see a greater number of contractors and homeowners working on homes.

Tackling any renovation project is an exercise in patience. Renovations can impede on daily activities and cause a certain level of upheaval in homeowners’ lives. Homeowners planning renovations also may find that they must have some wiggle room when it comes to both their budgets and their expectations.

Remodeling, particularly with regard to older homes, may unveil unforeseen issues that only arise in the face of the renovation.

So what can homeowners expect during a renovation?

The following are a few issues that might arise during home improvement projects.

• Dirt and noise: Homeowners can count on dust, debris and noise throughout the renovation process. Dust appears when walls come down or go up, and construction teams typically erect temporary walls or tarps to contain the debris.

Air filtering systems also can limit dust particles. Noise is unavoidable. If it becomes troublesome, arrange to be outside of the home when the bulk of the construction is taking place.

• Delays or schedule changes: Even the best contractors cannot control every aspect of the job. They rely on subcontractors and vendors to do portions of the work.

Materials may not always arrive on time, or they may fall short of homeowners’ expectations. This can push back the project schedule.

Homeowners should hope for everything to be done on time, but it can be less stressful if homeowners anticipate

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Homeowners often discover hidden problems when delving into renovations.

Budgeting for remediation can help remove some of the stress of unexpected delays and concerns.

delays and be a pleasant surprise if there are no delays.

• Hidden issues: Contractors may uncover all sorts of issues that need to be addressed before a project can progress. Examples include the presence of asbestos (common in older homes), plumbing problems, incorrectly wired electrical systems, and leaks or moisture issues. These problems also can impact the cost of the project, so set aside some money in the budget for unforeseen expenses.

Chances are you are going to need some extra money to handle a few surprises during the project.

It’s important to expect the unexpected when embarking on home renovations.

Budgeting for hidden costs, expecting delays and coping with the upheaval to daily schedules are par for the remodeling course. However, the end result is often well worth the time and effort.

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Contractor Guide 2017 • 21

Home improvements that increase house value When granite countertops or shiny, stainless steel appliances beckon homeowners from the display areas of home improvement stores, it’s tempting to gear remodeling thoughts toward the items that will add flair and decorative appeal to a home.

Even though most improvements add some measure of value, deciding which are the best investments can be difficult.

Return on investment varies depending on the project. Frequently, the projects that seem like the best investments don’t bring the greatest rate of return, while those that seem like smaller projects bring substantial returns. Real estate professionals routinely weigh in with their expert advice, and homeowners can couple that advice with Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Index” to reap the greatest financial impact from their renovations.

• Open the door to improvement. Region by region across the United States, installation of a new steel door on the front of a home can have a large impact on the resale value of a property. The ROI ranges from 123 percent at the highest, to 86 percent at the lowest — which is still a considerable investment return for such a simple project.

Match the door’s style with the style of the house for the best value.

• Turn up the kitchen heat. An attractive kitchen can encourage buyers to overlook some of a home’s less attractive components.

In the kitchen, replacement countertops, wall color changes, new cabinetry and flooring offer the biggest ROI. • Dreaming of a new bedroom. Creating an attic bedroom to increase home value. The ROI of an attic remodel that adheres to code can garner an 83 percent ROI.

• Home maintenance projects. There’s little good to improving the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a home if there are existing structural or maintenance issues, warn experts. Siding replacement, HVAC system repair or replacement, a new roof, and basement dampness prevention solutions can be smarter investments before other flashy remodels. Many buyers have a strict budget for a house, and those buyers may be more likely to buy a house with few maintenance issues. Such buyers will then upgrade the kitchen or baths themselves, according to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies.

• Worthy window replacement. Angie’s List, a home services review and referral resource, has found that the average ROI of new windows is 77 percent. The cost of installation and energy savings tend to offset at around the 10-year point.

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Maximizing natural light in a home is a smart and sometimes low-cost renovation. Homes that are dark and drab can drain energy levels and reduce productivity. In addition, dark rooms may not be inviting places to gather as a family or when entertaining. Certain factors contribute to a dark home.

Houses that face north or east may not get the same level of sunlight as those that primarily face south and west. The style of a home and its attributes also may create dark conditions.

Deep house eaves as well as small windows or too few windows also can contribute to a deficit of light indoors. A major remodel certainly can remedy the situation.

However, there also are other less-extensive strategies to improve natural light.

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Pool installation tips Now that the weather is warming up, many homeowners’ thoughts are drifting toward relaxing days spent soaking up some sun by the pool. Early spring is a great time to install a pool so the family has a go-to hangout by the time summer arrives.

Installing a pool is a large financial investment, and homeowners should not take that decision lightly.

When attempting to determine if a pool is for them, homeowners may want to ask themselves the following questions. Some yards may not be large enough, while others may not meet the zoning requirements.

HOW WILL WE USE IT? Decide if you’re putting in a pool for the kids, to entertain the family or to make an architectural statement in the yard. Having a clear sense of purpose will help to guide the decision-making process.

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WHO WILL MAINTAIN IT? Many homeowners tackle the day-to-day maintenance required to keep their pools clean and safe. Others hire pool cleaners to maintain their pools and ensure the water is properly balanced.

Maintenance can cost additional money, so consider this potential expense.

ARE THERE ANY SAFETY CONCERNS? Parents of young children may be hesitant to install a pool, but today’s pool installation codes consider many of the potential hazards of a pool and attempt to eliminate them. Fences surrounding inground pools with self-locking gates, as well as locking ladders for aboveground pools can eliminate accidental falls into unattended pools. Always work with a pool-installation company that has earned positive reviews and has a stellar record of service.

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505 California Ave Parker, AZ Contractor Guide 2017 • 23