how i work and what to expect

Each project is as unique as the homeowner.

I use a “Menu of Services” for each project customizing my skills for the expectations of the homeowner and the scope of work to be performed.

I use this structure to establish a fixed fee based on the homeowners need, the contractor performing the work and the overall project scope. The tasks listed are typical to most projects. This format allows me to calculate a fee and payment schedule based on benchmarks in the project.

It is a three legged stool; you - the homeowner, me, and the contractor performing the work. It is going to be fun at first then your home will be turned upside down. There are thousands of articles and blogs on how to survive this.

Here are my top words of wisdom;

  • Have a prioritized wish list. What is the point of going through the project if you do not get what you want in the end?

  • If the homeowners are a couple; you each get one non-negotiable from your wish list. Everything else becomes a compromise.

  • The five most expensive words in a remodel project are “while you are at it...”. Expect scope creep to happen.

  • Have some additional funds for the surprises and the “OMG – I must have that!” moment. After the investment, both emotionally and financially, in the project you should not have the “shoulda-woulda-coulda” moment at completion.

  • Changing your mind changes the outcome. Be prepared to make decisions and commit to them. If you have uncertainty about anything - you need to say something before the hammers start swinging. Fixing things after the fact is just flat out painful for everyone involved.

  • Humans are involved. Unforeseen issues will occur in the construction calendar, delays due to product not being available, quality issues etc. etc. etc.

  • At some point, you will bottom out emotionally with the whole process. Please know that it is highly likely that we (the contractor and I) will also bottom out...but it is our responsibility to honor the commitment and finish the project.

    A few services I don’t provide;

    Arguing or finger pointing.

    Selection or specification of plumbing valves.

    I hope this helps with some of your questions and concerns.

Frequently Asked questions

Why Should I hire a design professional to help me with my project even though I know what I want because I saw it on Houzz?

Consider the professional designer as the third leg of the stool; you have the contractor, homeowner and designer. A professional designer can interpret the vision you have for your home. Contractors are going to ask for details. A professional designer can provide those details and help streamline the process.

How do I find the right designer?

It’s just like trying to find the right contractor. Every creative will have their particular “zone of genius”.  Some may be good at interior furnishings, others may specialize in kitchen and bath design, some may be architects focusing on interiors. Because you will be working with them over an extended period of time it’s important to find the right fit for your personality and your project. A seasoned professional designer will make the project about you and not about them. In other words, they should be helping you with your vision - not imposing their personal vision of what they think you should have.

How much do you charge?

Here is my philosophy; every project is as unique as the homeowner and their expectations. So, my services should adapt to the project requirements and the homeowners needs. I use a “Menu of Services” for each project customizing my skills for the homeowners and contractors expectations.  I offer a complementary initial consultation, this is best when the conversation is in the home. From that meeting I develop a proposal on how we can work together. 

Why Should I Hire A Licensed Contractor When I Can Do It Myself?

The perception is that if you do it yourself you save money. In some instances, this has a positive outcome...in other instances, not so much.  Every project has innumerable variables that contribute to a positive outcome. Hiring a licensed trade professional is one of those variables. Think of it as a surgical procedure – do you want to hire the person that has “some power tools” or do you want a qualified surgeon with a team?

How Do I Identify The Right Contractor For My Project?

Every contractor has a “zone of genius”. An example would be one contractor might be specialized in new construction, another contractor might be a handyman and only handle minor repairs. Another contractor might focus on remodels that include kitchen and baths. Some factors to consider in finding the right contractor; the overall project and your personality. They’re going to be in your home for a long time because some projects take a while. Make sure that it’s a good match professionally and personally.

What Should i Do Before I Hire a Contractor?

There are many things but here are a few that are important. In today’s world many people rely on a handshake or a text message that says, “let’s go ahead”. Always have a contract in place even if it’s a Letter of Agreement or a fully disclosed Contract. Always ask for referrals, both good and bad. Every project is going to go in a ditch or hit a bump in the road. It’s about how they navigate out of the ditch or over the that bump and finish the project. Ask the contractor for a project calendar with a start date and a possible end date. This is important because you’ll know what to expect over the course of the project. New construction has a different calendar than a remodel. Expect that the calendar is always going to change because of unforeseen circumstances.

Why Does It Cost So Much?

Consider where we live, the cost of materials and goods, the shortage of labor and housing and a very busy remodeling economy.

As A Homeowner, I Don’t Understand Why It’s So Complicated And why It Should Take So Long?

The number one delay in any project are unexpected issues with the site. Number two is the homeowner’s ability to make decisions; decisions must be made in order for the project to proceed. Changing your mind changes the outcome. Another factor is the availability of subcontractors at key points in the project – they may be on another project that has been delayed.

full-service design

For those considering a remodel or renovation:

My consulting options are based on a Menu of Services.

Each project is unique so customizing services to each project is the best solution.

These tasks typical to most design projects:

  • Interior space planning

  • Kitchen & bath design

  • Cabinetry finish & style selection

  • Counter selection & details

  • Decorative hardware & supply

  • Plumbing fixture & appliance selection

  • Finishes such as tile, paint and flooring selection

  • Construction Drawings such as Floor Plans, Mechanical Plans, Interior Elevations

  • 3D Perspectives

  • Cabinet Installation and job progress administration

This process establishes a fixed fee based on the homeowners need and expectations, the Contractor performing the work, and the overall project scope. This format allows us to calculate a fee and payment schedule based on benchmarks of completion in the project.

Where to find me

My studio is located in “uptown” Vashon.

I have listed my studio hours but i recommend that you call or email to schedule a time to meet. Evenings and Saturdays are available if you commute and are not available during the week.

As a sole proprietor I am sometimes out on job-sites - which is where you would want me to be if it is your project.

Contact me

Telephone

(206) 661-5902

Location

9816 SW Bank Road
Vashon, WA, 98070

Email

judith.neary@gmail.com

Hours | Usually

Monday - Friday, 10am to 5pm-ish

Saturdays by appointment.

Let’s Connect