Frequently Asked Questions
Planning
Whenever you’re about to embark on a remodel, it’s good to be upfront and transparent about project costs—and your contractor of choice should be, too! When you hire Bluestem Remodeling, you get just that.
During our initial conversations, we will talk with you about the scale of your remodel and how it compares to similar projects. Then, in our detailed planning process, you will receive a budget to accompany preliminary designs.
Finally, you will receive a bid-priced contract defining exactly what your final design will cost.
We know you need accurate information to make informed decisions, and cost is one of the most important factors.
Understanding Project Costs
Many components will affect the final cost of a home remodeling project. Some of the most important factors include:
- Project size and scope
- Materials and products used
- Labor costs
Other factors that can also impact the cost of a home remodeling project include:
- The project’s location
- Complexities in the design
- Any unforeseen issues that may arise during the initial planning process
Whether due to unforeseen structural issues or changes in design plans, it’s important to budget for these expenses as they can add up quickly.
Another issue that may arise is the disruption to your family’s daily life. Depending on the project’s scope, for instance, homeowners may need to relocate or adjust their routines to accommodate the construction temporarily, thus adding to your overall expenses.
Additionally, there may be issues with permits and regulations, which can cause delays and added expenses. To avoid these issues, it’s important to work with reputable contractors who stay up-to-date on local building codes.
Overall, while home remodeling can be a great investment, it’s important to be prepared for any potential challenges that may impact cost.
How to keep costs under control
Ultimately, the key to keeping project costs under control is to work closely with a trusted contractor who can help you navigate these various factors and make informed decisions throughout the project.
By hiring Bluestem, you can benefit from our expertise in project management, budgeting, and sourcing materials. We can also help you create a realistic budget for your project, identify areas where you can save money, and recommend cost-effective solutions.
Trust us to help you avoid costly mistakes and delays, which can add to the overall cost of your home remodeling project. With our guidance, you can achieve your goals while staying within your budget.
Shopping for home remodeling services is unlike shopping for a car. You can’t test-drive different models and compare their features.
However, at Bluestem Remodeling, our planning process creates a personalized “shopping experience” for you. We present different plan options to help you understand what’s possible in your home.
For example, our 3D models let you “test drive” your project, so you get a true sense of how the space might look and feel. Additionally, our online portal lets you see all the details, options and costs, so you can compare and make informed “shopping” decisions once the planning is underway.
For tips and advice on how to begin the remodeling process, and ensure a better remodeling experience, download our “Quick Start Guide to Remodeling“.
You deserve a custom remodeling experience
At Bluestem, we believe that your home should reflect your lifestyle. That’s why we work hard to provide homeowners with a custom remodeling experience from beginning to end. We understand that every client has unique needs and preferences, so we take a personalized approach to every project we undertake.
Our team of experts will work closely with you to understand your vision and provide a range of options that meet your requirements and budget. We believe in transparency and honesty, which is why we provide every client with a detailed breakdown of costs and timelines so you know exactly what to expect at every project stage.
You’ll also quickly discover that we take pride in our attention to detail and commitment to excellence. We use only the highest quality materials and employ skilled craftspeople who are passionate about their work.
We understand that your home is one of your most important assets, which is why we take great care to ensure that every aspect of the remodeling process is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
We also understand that remodeling your home can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. That’s why we strive to make the process smooth and stress-free. We handle all aspects of the project, from design and planning to construction and cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your newly remodeled home.
Picking the right team to craft the changes for your home can be daunting.
You have to be sure the remodeler understands your home and lifestyle. This relationship will last for months. Therefore, you’ll want to ensure you “actually” like your remodeling team.
Qualities to look for in a contractor
When choosing a home remodeling team, consider the following important qualities.
First and foremost, you’ll want to find an experienced and knowledgeable team in the specific type of remodeling you want. Whether you are renovating your kitchen, adding an addition, or updating your bathroom, you want to work with a team with a proven track record of success.
In addition to experience, you also want to look for a reliable and trustworthy team. This means they should:
- Communicate promptly
- Show up on time for appointments
- Be transparent about their pricing and timelines
Your remodeling team should always keep your best interests in mind throughout the entire remodeling process.
For more tips on choosing a home remodeler near you, check out this helpful article.
Let’s focus on communication for a moment.
Communication is essential for any remodeling project to be successful. Without clear and consistent communication between the homeowner and the contractor, there will be misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the project’s goals and objectives.
The result? Delays, cost overruns, and even subpar workmanship.
By communicating openly and often, both parties can ensure everyone is on the same page and working towards the same end goal. Additionally, communication allows for timely updates and adjustments to the project’s scope or timeline, which can help prevent any surprises or unexpected expenses.
Finally, you want to choose a team that is creative and innovative. A good remodeling team will be able to work within your space constraints to come up with creative solutions that meet your specific needs and preferences.
They should be able to offer suggestions and ideas you may have yet to think of on your own and be willing to work with you to achieve the right vision for your home.
Learn the key questions you should always ask before signing a contract.
Looking for the best home remodelers near you?
At Bluestem, we live by the following core values:
- Trust
- Guidance
- Collaboration
- Respect
- Excellence
We believe that your remodeling experience should be enjoyable and satisfying. We prioritize open communication while working closely with you to discover a shared vision for your home.
Our specialists, designers, and craftspeople are there for you every step, from the initial design to the final construction. We strive to create finished spaces that reflect your needs, aesthetics, and values.
If you’re looking for a qualified remodeler near you, let us bring your vision to life.
The short answer to this question is – mostly no.
However, it depends on your exact situation.
The expenses of remodeling are not tax deductible, But – mortgage interest on your home can be tax deductible depending on your income level and the size of your mortgage.
Ultimately, you’ll need to talk to your tax advisor about how this would apply to your situation. Remember, rules often change, so be sure to get up to date advice.
There are, however, tax deductions and rebates for making energy-efficient improvements to your home, and many are perfect projects to tackle during a home remodeling project.
- For more information on Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credits through the US government, click here.
- For information on energy-efficiency rebates, tax credits and other programs in MN, visit the Minnesota Energy Resources website or CenterPoint Energy’s energy efficiency resources page.
- The Home Energy Guide published by the Minnesota Department of Commerce is a great resource with information on ways to conserve energy, while making homes safer and making a positive contribution to the environment.
Looking to remodel, and wondering if it’s possible to have a more eco-friendly home remodel– and actually have a positive impact on the environment? You can! Read our blog, Eco-Friendly Home Remodel: A Greener Alternative to New Builds, for tips and information how to have a greener remodeling project.
Communication
Communication plays a vital role in the success of any remodeling project. Whether planning to renovate your existing home or building one from scratch, proper communication is essential to ensure everyone is on the same page.
But it doesn’t stop there. Effective communication helps avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and delays from the initial planning stage to the final touches. Therefore, it’s essential to have clear communication between the contractor, the client, and other stakeholders to ensure that the project stays on track and meets all requirements.
During a home remodel, you should expect your contractor to establish open lines of communication from the beginning of the project and maintain them throughout. This way, everyone involved can work together to achieve the desired outcome while minimizing the risks of any potential issues.
What Can You Expect From Bluestem?
When you first reach out to us, we take the opportunity to get to know you, your home, and your needs better. Our Client Champion will be the point person who listens and understands you.
Once you start the design process, you will have a Lead Designer who works closely with you to express your vision for your remodeled spaces.
During construction, your Lead Carpenter will focus on ensuring you know what is happening every day, listening to your concerns, and providing details and solutions. Your lead carpenter is also supported by a dedicated Production Office Staff.
Your designer and Client Champion won’t disappear once your project enters construction. With our integrated communication portal and regular team meetings, they stay up to date on your remodel and are there to help as needed.
Even after your project is complete, we won’t just go away. We will stay in touch and leave your communication portal open for a year.
Let’s Bring Your Dream Design to Life
At Bluestem Remodeling, we understand that your home is more than a place to live. It’s where you make memories, relax, and spend time with loved ones.
We’re dedicated to bringing your dream design to life and will work closely with you to ensure that every detail is perfected and that the final result complements your lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy and rustic feel or a modern and sleek look, we have the expertise and experience to make it happen. Let us help you create the home of your dreams.
Telephone, text and email are all great communication methods. But with the magic of our online portal, the entire project team will see the questions posted there, ensuring you are taken care of right away. That will be the best way to stay in touch throughout your project.
Always let us know if a particular communication method works best for you.
Why we love hearing from you
Maintaining contact with your home remodeling contractor is critical to ensuring your project goes smoothly and meets your expectations.
By maintaining regular communication, you can keep us informed of any changes or concerns you have while we provide updates on the project’s progress. Doing so ensures issues are addressed early on—helping everyone save time and money in the long run.
Additionally, staying in touch with your contractor helps establish a good working relationship and can make the remodeling process more enjoyable for everyone involved.
So, whether it’s a quick phone call or an in-person meeting, make an effort to stay in contact with your remodeling contractor throughout the project.
Why clients avoid talking to their home remodeling contractor
Believe it or not, there are several reasons why clients don’t communicate with their contractors.
- For one, they may feel like they don’t have enough time or energy to devote to the project.
- Additionally, some clients may have had negative experiences with contractors who were unresponsive or difficult to work with, which could make them feel hesitant to reach out.
- Finally, some clients may simply be uncomfortable with confrontation and may avoid communication as a way of avoiding potential conflicts.
Regardless of the reason, you must communicate openly and honestly with your contractors to ensure that the project is completed to your satisfaction.
The good news is that with Bluestem you never need to worry about confrontations or negative experiences. Our team is committed to ensuring your home remodel is a success. We strive to build lifelong relationships with our clients and are proud of the fact that we still do work for homeowners we first met when we started our company.
Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we encourage open and honest communication with every client we have the privilege of serving. After all, we’re building your dream home, and it should be perfect!
Our goal is to respond to all communication within one business day, usually faster if your project is under construction or during key points throughout your project (i.e., consultation, planning, pre-construction, construction, etc.).
At Bluestem, we strive to provide you with a remodeling experience that is collaborative and fulfilling. And we achieve this by prioritizing open and clear communication using our 5-step process.
Our team of specialists, designers, and craftspeople will assist you throughout the entire remodel, from the initial design to the final construction. Your space should mirror your distinctive requirements, preferences, and values, and our approach enables us to accomplish precisely that!
Our comprehensive process also guarantees your project is completed with utmost precision, and you have complete control of your decisions, schedule and investment.
This allows us to prevent unexpected occurrences, ensuring that your opinions are always heard, and you receive the best possible solutions for your home. These factors are fundamental in creating an excellent remodeling experience.
Have questions?
We strive to build a strong, collaborative partnership with every client we serve based on clear communication, trust, and consistency. Our customized design and planning strategies leverage our expertise and your input to deliver outstanding results that you love and will enjoy for years.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation or have questions about an upcoming project, we’re here to help!
Please contact us using our online form, or call us directly at 952.926.0614. Our team will get in touch with you shortly.
If you’re still unsure whether Bluestem is the right remodeling contractor for your upcoming project, we invite you to browse our list of satisfied customers or watch our real-life home transformations. These examples showcase how we’ve helped local Minnesotans like you remodel a problem area into a living, functional space.
Construction
Give us a call and we can give you a sense of how long remodeling projects similar to yours have taken and what the process has been like.
Factors that impact a home construction timeline?
Home remodeling projects can be exciting, but they can also be quite time-consuming. The construction phase, for example, can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the scope of the project and various factors that can make or break the timeline.
One of the most significant factors that can affect the timeline of a home remodeling project is the size of the project.
- Larger projects, such as adding an addition to the home or gutting the entire kitchen, will naturally take longer to complete.
- In contrast, smaller projects, such as replacing the bathroom fixtures or adding new cabinets, can often be completed in a few days.
Another factor that can affect the timeline of a home remodeling project is the complexity of the project. It goes without saying but the more complex the project, the longer it will take to complete.
- For example, a project involving significant structural changes, such as adding a new room or removing a load-bearing wall, will require more time than a project involving cosmetic changes.
The availability of materials and labor is another significant factor to consider. If materials are readily available, it can ensure the project’s completion is completed on time. Similarly, if there is a shortage of skilled labor, it can take longer to complete the project.
Unforeseen problems can also cause significant delays, such as
- Identifying structure damage during the planning phase
- Experiencing inclement weather during construction
Finally, one of the most critical factors that can make or break the timeline of a home remodeling project is the contractor.
A reliable and experienced contractor, like Bluestem will ensure the project stays on track and is completed on time. On the other hand, an unreliable or inexperienced contractor can cause delays and cost overruns.
Simply put, the length of time it takes to complete a home remodeling project can vary widely depending on various factors. Therefore, it’s essential to work an experienced team like Bluestem, plan for unexpected delays, and be patient throughout the process.
With proper planning and realistic expectations, homeowners can enjoy a successful home remodeling project that enhances their living space for years.
Typically, your project team will be working on 2-4 projects like yours at a time.
Bluestem Remodeling always provides bid-price guarantees. Your bid-priced construction contract is accompanied by a detailed scope of work and a construction plan set. This contract is our commitment to you to complete the project at the price quoted.
The cost only changes for one of the following two reasons:
- You add something to the scope of the project; or,
- There is a hidden or unforeseen condition (such as rotted walls) not knowable during a typical inspection.
Your online portal tracks all of the details so there is never a nasty surprise about costs or payments. You always stay in control.
Hidden & Unforeseen Conditions Explained
It’s essential to understand that hidden or unforeseen conditions are often the result of outdated or faulty construction practices.
For example, a contractor may have cut corners during the initial home construction, leading to structural issues that are not immediately obvious.
Alternatively, some homeowners may have made changes to the home that compromised its integrity, such as adding an unpermitted addition that was not built to code.
Regardless of the cause, hidden or unforeseen conditions can lead to significant delays and increased costs during a remodeling project.
Let’s review an example
If a contractor discovers rotted walls during a renovation, they may need to stop work while assessing the damage’s extent and making repairs. This can add days or even weeks to the project timeline, which in turn, can lead to increased labor costs and materials expenses.
Additionally, hidden or unforeseen conditions may require specialized expertise to address. For example, if a home has asbestos insulation, the contractor may need a specialist to remove the material before work can continue safely. This can add significant costs to the project in terms of labor and materials.
What can homeowners do to minimize the impact of hidden costs?
One key step is to work with a reputable contractor, like Bluestem Remodeling, who has experience with older homes or homes with unique construction features.
Our team will be able to identify potential issues before they become major problems and have the expertise to address them if they do arise.
Another important step is to be prepared for the unexpected. Homeowners should set aside a contingency fund of at least 10-20% of the project budget to cover unforeseen expenses. This will help ensure that unexpected issues don’t derail the project or lead to financial strain.
Remember, hidden or unforeseen conditions can be a major headache during a home remodeling project. However, our team will help you minimize the impact of these issues and ensure a successful renovation.
Our production team is committed to driving your project forward in the most efficient way possible, but we never want to risk quality by rushing things. The detailed planning that takes place before construction begins is one way we can assure the building process goes smoothly and according to schedule.
Between the construction contract and the beginning of construction activities – the pre-construction phase – we will concentrate on helping you make final decisions.
We will then provide a schedule for you in your online portal, where you will always be able to monitor progress and will receive daily updates.
You can expect that your project will be finished according to the schedule and that you will always know what’s happening.
The main causes for schedule adjustments are changes to the plan or the scope of work due to client additions or unforeseen conditions.
During pre-construction, we create a detailed plan to be able to deliver your project on time. Occasionally, factors such as weather, delays in manufacturing or inspection backlogs might cause a delay.
We never want this to happen, but if it does, we will communicate as soon as possible and give you our plan to stay on track.
Sticking to the Timelines
As a homeowner, you can help ensure that your project stays on schedule by being organized and responsive. This includes promptly responding to any requests or questions from our team and being flexible with your schedule if unexpected issues arise.
It’s also important to have a clear plan in place for any necessary permits and inspections, to avoid delays or setbacks. We’ll ensure this critical piece of the project is already in place.
By working closely with Bluestem and staying proactive throughout the remodeling process, you can ensure that your project stays on track and is completed within the agreed-upon timeframe.
Being Flexible Is Key!
As a homeowner, it’s important to be flexible during the home renovation process because unexpected things can happen. For example, you may discover that there’s a problem with your plumbing or electrical system that needs to be fixed before you can proceed with the renovation.
Being flexible means that you’re willing to make adjustments and changes along the way in order to ensure that your renovation is successful.
It also means that you’re open to new ideas and suggestions from the Bluestem team, which can help you achieve a better outcome.
Ultimately, being flexible during a home renovation project can help you avoid stress and frustration, and make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
THE REMODELING INDUSTRY
NARI stands for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
This professional organization establishes trust by setting the highest standards for professionalism, good business practices, and quality from its member companies. Members are top-quality remodelers and vendors.
In 1935, NARI was born (albeit under a different name). In the following decades, they helped support homeowners looking to remodel their homes instead of constructing new ones.
In the early 1980s, the National Remodelers Association and the National Home Improvement Council joined forces to become the NARI we know and admire today.
The organization’s core purpose is to “advance and promote the remodeling industry’s professionalism, product and vital public purpose.”
We could not agree more with those sentiments.
At Bluestem Remodeling, we prioritize our certifications and training as a proud NARI member. We share the organization’s customer service and commitment values. Furthermore, we are committed to high standards, professional education, ethics, and integrity. After all, you deserve a company that cares about your home’s transformation just as much as you do.
Learn more about the array of awards we have received and what separates us from other remodeling companies in Minnesota.
Each year NARI members are encouraged to submit their work to be judged in various categories for this annual competition. The judging is done by remodeling professionals from another state and is anonymous. The winning projects are chosen on the criteria of: Demonstrating craftsmanship, solving technical problems and meeting the owner’s goals and needs.
Bluestem has won Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, and National CotY Awards in 2016, 2019 and 2020.
A Certified Remodeler is a highly experienced remodeling professional recognized by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Certified Remodelers are recognized for their technical skills and strong business management capabilities.
According to NARI statistics, “80% of consumers would choose a certified remodeling professional over one who is not.” To highlight the very best remodeling organizations, NARI provides a thorough certification process for those ready and willing to work to a higher standard to highlight the very best remodeling organizations.
Certified Remodelers undergo additional training and testing, as well as background and reference checks. Additionally, they must periodically renew their certification.
When you decide to remodel your home, you want to work with a team you trust. We hear that! Hiring a NARI Certified Remodeler guarantees that you’ve chosen outstanding professionals informed about the latest industry practices.
Here are a couple of crucial areas where Certified Remodelers excel:
● Healthy business backed by profitable finances.
● In-depth understanding of codes and regulations, including correspondences with code officials.
● Thorough job-site evaluations, especially for hard-to-navigate issues.
● An emphasis on green remodeling.
● Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of the trade and the tasks at hand.
As a Minnesota Certified Remodeling Company, we take immense pride in the professional and exceptional work we provide for our clients.
Want to know more about how we prioritize client satisfaction? Read about our Bluestem Guarantees.
The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) sets high industry standards and practices for the design and building of kitchens and baths.
We work to achieve all NKBA standards and are proud members of this association.
The Association of Professional Builders (APB) is an international organization dedicated to educating building and remodeling contractors to be the best at client service, company organization, and communication. Their resources, expertise, and coaching opportunities are respected throughout the remodeling industry.
Bluestem regularly participates in Association of Professional Builders training to improve all aspects of our business. It’s our goal to be the best remodeling company possible. That’s why we’re always looking to learn about the latest insights, trends, and techniques.
Our continued commitment to excellence and education is one of the reasons our clients trust us!
READY TO GET STARTED?
A better design-build experience awaits. If you’re ready to re-imagine your home,
contact
us today to discover the benefits of an organized, reliable system with
a truly personalized design approach.
- Customized Design |
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