Holiday gatherings and a bathroom remodel might sound like an unusual pairing. But with the right scope, a realistic schedule, and an organized contractor, the season can offer some worthwhile opportunities.
Here are FIVE reasons Remodeling during the Holidays can be IDEAL!
REASON 1 : OPTIONS
More opportunity to find the right contractor
Every great bathroom remodel begins with a great plan. During the peak season your choices are limited on who’s available, but between the months from October through January contractors’ availability EXPLODES! This is because that’s our slow season. Finding the right contractor takes more than accepting the first available bid. You want someone who understands your vision, communicates clearly, and has the experience to deliver the bathroom you want. If you’re their only project, you get their full attention, which is ideal for you as the customer.
When contractors have seasonal openings, you have more choices for consultations and start dates. Think of it as your chance to hold a few “auditions.” Compare scope, workmanship, references, and availability before deciding who earns the part to spend the holidays with you and your loved ones, well, Monday through Friday at least!
An open calendar is an opportunity to find a good fit.
REASON 2: COST
A chance to make your budget go further
A new bathroom might already be on your wish list. Holiday scheduling could help you check it off your Christmas List.
If a contractor has a gap between projects, being ready to move forward may create room to discuss pricing, scheduling flexibility, or ways to get more value from your budget. This often gives to the opportunity to negotiate the price. If the contractor has 20 projects going, they may be less willing to negotiate on price because adding another project only puts more pressure on their crews. However, if they want to retain their employees, they need to keep them busy, when we don’t have enough work, we may be willing to come down 10-20% to keep our crews going.
Always compare detailed proposals, so you know what each price includes. A useful savings opportunity still needs to account for preparation, waterproofing, materials, and quality installation.
REASON 3: DEADLINES
Give your project a meaningful finish date
I meet many clients who get frustrated with how long a project takes and I’ve always found that setting a completion date and updating the schedule when changes occur help reduce frustration. The same applies when clients communicate their expectations to Contractors. By setting a deadline you give your contractor and his crew clear motivation, and a shared goal. This helps reduce frustration and avoid conflict.
“We would love the bathroom finished before the family arrives” gives your remodeling plans a clear goal. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s can all serve as milestones to plan around.
The key is working backward with your contractor before demolition begins. Confirm the scope, order materials, and allow time for inspections, deliveries, holiday closures, and unexpected conditions.
A holiday date works best as an agreed, realistic target. Build in a buffer before guests arrive so you have time for final details and a thorough cleanup.
REASON 4: SELECTION
Shop holiday promotions with a plan
Choosing the finishes is one of the most enjoyable parts of a bathroom remodel. I love shopping with my clients. Holiday promotions can offer opportunities to shop for vanities, faucets, lighting, mirrors, and other fixtures with substantial savings you won’t find the rest of the year.
Before buying, confirm dimensions, installation requirements, quantities, and delivery dates so your purchases work together and arrive when they’re needed.
A sale becomes valuable when the product suits your bathroom, your budget, and your project schedule.
REASON 5: SHOWING OFF
Give your guests something to talk about
“Want to see what we’re doing with the bathroom?” That is a conversation starter you can use at your next holiday gathering.
A recently completed primary bathroom gives guests a chance to appreciate the transformation. Even a project in progress can be interesting when the work area is organized and guests can view it safely from outside the containment.
Talk with your contractor about your hosting plans. Housekeeping, floor protection, dust containment, filtration, and neatly stored tools can help manage disruption.
Showing your in-laws your new walk-in shower, lighting, shower bench, more open space, and sharing your vision (even if the project isn’t complete) gives you plenty to talk about besides politics. Keep in mind, if you show them the project while it’s underway, they’re bound to be calling and asking for pictures once it’s finished.
Put your bathroom on the holiday wish list.
Start with a conversation about your goals, budget, and hosting plans. Together, we can determine what is realistic for your home and your timeline.
Contact 2ROi to discuss your bathroom remodel in Concord and the East Bay.
Remodeling That Pays Off.