HomeSavvi - Home Improvement Help

2011-04-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

Top 5 lighting tips for a brighter home

2010-10-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

All Hallows Eve...lighting for a fun and festive fright night!

Top 10 Energy Efficient and Green Building Ideas for Your Home

2010-01-15T08:29:00.001-08:00

Want to learn more about how to make your home energy efficient? Want to know what products and building practices can make your home "green"? Want the chance to win some fabulous prizes worth thousands of dollars?

Come to HomeSavvi's upcoming seminar on January 26th in Seattle from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. It's free, but limited to the first 30 people to sign up - and you'll be entered in a drawing to win valuable prizes like a Viking Continuous Feed Food Disposer worth $375 and a Fairmont Designs bathroom vanity, sink and mirror set worth $1,200.

At the Lighting Universe showroom in the Seattle Design Center, HomeSavvi will have experts in energy efficiency, home technology, and green building on hand to answer your questions and give you the best pointers to follow.

Just click on the title of this blog or call this number to sign up: 619-752-0060.

Our seminars get rave reviews - read on!

Reviews of the November 2009 HomeSavvi Seminar

I attended the Savvi Remodeling Seminar in November, and got great advice for my kitchen and bath. Very valuable - I'd highly recommend it!
Amy, homeowner from Bellevue, WA

High quality advice from people who obviously knew their stuff. And I won a 2 hour design consultation!
Josh, homeowner from Seattle, WA

Nice event. Liked the format and the advice was great.
Susanna, homeowner from Kirkland, WA

Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop

2010-01-12T08:31:00.000-08:00

Many homeowners aren't aware of the tons of free advice that is available to them through the professionals in the remodeling industry. (I know I wasn't aware when I started remodeling my house).

HomeSavvi homeowners do as much research as possible before committing to a remodel - no matter where you live, seek out informative seminars that may be held at homeshows, in showrooms, or at professional designers, architects and contractors offices.

On January 14th, Ventana Construction in Seattle, WA is holding a workshop at their offices on Building a Better Home. These workshops have been really well received, and the homeowners who've gone in the past have rated them highly.

Learn about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful. This 1½ hour event is free and takes place at Ventana Construction’s West Seattle offices in conjunction with Goforth Gill Architects. Seating is limited; call 619-752-0060 to reserve your space.

Want to find out more? Go to: www.ventanabuilds.com

This photo is an example of their work and can be found on Ventana's Construction portfolio on HomeSavvi.

To find out about more remodeling seminars and events, check our local events calendars at http://www.homesavvi.com/home-remodeling-event-calendar-seattle.

Home Improvement Wiring - Be Careful

2010-01-09T17:52:00.000-08:00

If you've bought home improvement books from Lowes or Sunset that contain information about wiring - watch out!

Nearly a million do-it-yourself home repair books sold since the 1970s -- many under the Lowe's home improvement store brand -- were recalled because of improper instructions for home wiring, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said.

Nine different books sold between 1975 and December 2009 for $13 to $35 are being recalled because following their wiring directions could lead users to get shocked or start a fire, according to a news release from the CPSC. "The books contain errors in the technical diagrams and wiring instructions that could lead consumers to incorrectly install or repair electrical wiring," the CPSC said.

In our opinion - another shockingly good reason to work with professionals.

Lead paint

2010-01-07T19:27:00.000-08:00

Many homeowners don't know that the EPA has established new regulations with regards to the removal of lead paint. Starting in April 2010, these new rules will affect homeowners with homes built anytime pre-19878.

The EPA rules about removal are pretty strict and will have to be followed by anyone working in the home including builders, painters, plumbers and electricians. Any renovation or repair work is going to be affected.

Homeowners will need to be restricted from the area, and contractors need to take extra precautions for performing the work, cleaning up, and verifying the work.

The home improvement industry is getting ready by attending classes, getting certified in government approved programs and taking on extra liability insurance for jobs completed. Extra care needs to be taken to remove and properly dispose of the paint.

One HomeSavvi member asked a question in our Forums about why the cost for a paint job seems so high. In any paint job, the labor for removal, disposal, preparation and application is the expense that drives up the cost.
- next year, the costs will go up, but we'll be more assured of healthy homes especially for children and pregnant women.

I'd say it's a cost worth paying!

Inches DO matter!

2010-01-04T18:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, we all know the joke here - but when remodeling my home near Seattle, I found out that inches really DO matter - at least in my dining room. Here was the scenario - it includes scope creep and everything!

Our contractor had removed the sheet rock on the wall that separated the bedroom from the dining room. Once the wall was down, I had the bright idea to install a gas fireplace in the wall, thereby creating a fireplace in two rooms: dining room and bedroom. (Here is the scope creep: it cost about an extra $10,000 to do this: $6,000 to purchase the insert and install it and $4,000 for the mantels we had designed by LeeAnn Baker Interiors)

And here is where the problem started....The fireplace insert was 28" in depth. A wall is typically 6" deep. So we had an extra 22 inches to place between the two rooms. We debated about it for about 30 minutes, and decided to shift the fireplace box 15" into the dining room and create a large mantle, and only 7" into the bedroom.

So, the fireplace got installed, the sheet rock got put up, the beautiful mantels were crafted, the walls painted, lighting installed...and our dining room is now too small! We hung a chandelier exactly in the center of the room, which means the dining table is also in the middle. When someone walks around the dining table to take a seat, the wall with the fireplace juts out so far that they have to duck about 6 inches to avoid ramming into the mantel.

Once I realized this, I wanted to tear the whole wall down and start over, but of course that is unreasonable, because it would now cost another $15,000 for demolition and reconstruction.

Fortunately, no one has really complained too much. Except my nephew who hit his head when trying to avoid the fireplace mantle.

Do you have a story of some small change in your home that would make it more livable? If so, visit www.homesavvi.com and post your story there.

No remodeling needed here!

2009-12-21T08:22:00.000-08:00

Three nights ago I had the good fortune to be included in a party at Club Cielo in the new high rise condominium project in Seattle called Escala. I was blown away by the decor, amenities, food, and service at the club. Built by developer Eric Midby, this sophisticated condo complex brings a touch of NY to downtown Seattle.

My experience started in the lobby where the roaring fireplace set against creamy stone creates a luxurious entrance. Then, my party bypassed the gorgeous staircase with custom iron railings and koa wood art installation to take the elevator, which was a delightful art deco inspired ride. Once out of the elevator, I was immediately struck by the backlit marble bar in the club. Staff members told me there are over 1,000 color variations that slowly change throughout the hours.

The food was delectable - an extravagant raw bar was overflowing with braised sable fish, petite oysters, marinated mussels, alaskan king crab, smoked salmon and other seafood delicacies. A carved kobe beef station included crispy onion threads and watercress with each custom made beef panini. And the dessert station sported a "frozen grill" which immediately froze chocolate and other confections into a perfect adult lollipop. Late in the evening, I was offered a tour of the spotless kitchen where the chef topped a spoonful of blueberry mousse with truffle and hazelnut. Delightful!

We took a quick tour through the workout and spa facilities which were very tastefully designed and complete with state of the art facilities. My group ended the party sipping scotch in the private theatre's luxurious and deep leather chairs.

Why am I mentioning it in a blog about home remodeling? While Escala's lifestyle may be a dream for many, some of the best Seattle design talent was involved in this project, and everyone can get inspiration for their homes from elements in this residence.

HomeSavvi unveils a new look

2009-12-08T09:51:00.000-08:00

We're unveiling a new look and feel for design galleries and contributed articles today - we're really excited! take a look and tell us what you think.

Ventana Construction remodeling seminar

2009-11-22T15:47:00.000-08:00

Event: Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop

Location: Ventana Construction offices, 5458 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98136

Time: Thursday, December 3, 2009, 6 pm

Summary: If you are a considering remodeling the home you have or building a new custom home, this workshop is an invaluable first step in the process. Learn from experienced professionals about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful. This 1 ½ hour workshop is open to the public and seating is limited. Call 206-932-3009 to reserve your space.

Remodeling shopping in SODO district, Seattle

2009-11-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

On Friday last week, I spent the day in the SODO area in downtown Seattle, meeting with a number of store owners and managers. If you haven't gone there before, it's a cool shopping area for home remodeling needs. You can find a little bit of everything - including the kitchen sink! First, I went to Seattle Door and met a really friendly sales associate named Ryan. Seattle Door carries both wood and fiberglass doors and windows from companies such as Simpson, Marvin, and Thermatru. Seattle Door has recently started opening on Saturdays to help homeowners who can't get to their showroom during the week.

At Tile for Less, there is really great heated countertop just inside the door. Inspired me for my next luxury! They also rent tools if you are daring enough to try tiling on your own.

Allied Marble's owner, Jimmy Mai, is a third generation, highly experienced marble fabrication expert. His family has owned the business for over 30 years, and Jimmy grew up learning everything about marble, granite and other popular stones. His showroom has some gorgeous transparent stone to view and touch.

Bamboo Hardwoods is a locally owned store with four locations - three in Seattle and one in Redmond in the Whole Foods complex. The main warehouse and showroom is where I visited and found some really nice accessories for my home as well as interesting information on bamboo floors, poles and veneers.

Remodeling Seminar Last night

2009-11-11T08:25:00.001-08:00

Last night, the HomeSavvi team had our first home remodeling seminar at the beautiful Albert Lee Appliance store in Bellevue, WA. There were five professionals who talked about ways to save money, save time, go green, and the best ways to improve your home's value. 13 homeowners were there, and 7 of them won raffle items. The pros who spoke were Rick Van Arnem of Kitchens Plus, Brian Hughes of Hughes Building Company, Vernon Learned from Lighting Universe, Bruce Donnally of Donnally Architects and Bonnie Bagley Caitlen of Bonnie Bagley Interiors. You can find all of them on HomeSavvi's local resource guide for the Seattle area.

Kitchen and bath remodeling secrets seminar

2009-11-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

Do you wonder whether it would be better to reface your cabinets or get new ones? Or, how much value you'd get from a custom made vanity in your bath vs. one you could buy online? Tomorrow at Albert Lee Appliances showroom in Bellevue, WA, HomeSavvi is hosting its first remodeling seminar.

This picture is from our Speed Dating event held earlier this year.

20 people are registered already and there will be fun giveaways and great raffle items. We have 5 highly qualified speakers - check out the link to see more about the details.

http://www.homesavvi.com/SavviHomeRemodelingSeminar

HomeSavvi: New Home Remodeling + Improvement Forum

2009-09-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

If you've ever wondered how much your kitchen will cost, where the best online remodel deals are, or whether your living room would look better in a bold color, you're in luck! HomeSavvi has created a new home remodeling forum for home remodeling enthusiasts and professionals to ask advice, share their projects, and save on products!

We have created three different sections intended to serve as a resource for homeowners, professionals and the HomeSavvi community at large.

HomeSavvi Forum: Ask The Community- Need advice from an expert? Just ask the question. The Ask the Community section of the HomeSavvi’s online forum is the perfect place for homeowners to ask their remodeling questions directly to expert trade professionals, interior designers, architects and fellow homeowners who have been through a remodeling before.

HomeSavvi Forum: Coupons and Discounts- Looking for deals online for your next remodel? Browse our Coupons and Discounts section. The Coupons and Discounts section of the HomeSavvi’s online forum is where you will find exclusive offers, local deals and promotional discounts for your remodeling projects, from choosing the perfect appliance to how to build a deck. We recommend you visit often to see what’s new!

HomeSavvi Forum: Pro Access (Logged in, Pros only)- The Professional Access of the HomeSavvi’s online forum is a place for remodeling professionals to communicate in a private setting, share ideas and best practices.

We look forward to your posts, and thank you in advance for participating!

Next Savvi Speed Dating in Everett- August 18, 2009

2009-08-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Remodeling? Learn the real cost of your dream project from award winning local professionals

Savvi Speed Dating Snohomish County, WA

Hosted by: Contract Furnishings Mart
Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Address: 802 134th St SW #160
Everett, WA 98204-7320

Get directions

Spend an evening talking one-on-one with up to four remodeling professionals about your specific needs. These professionals will point you in the right direction to save time and money. Simply bring your questions, photos, and ideas.

Meet professionals who are experts in their fields
Get matched to a professional based on your remodeling needs
Receive a gift bag from our sponsors including a chance to win 2 Seahawks tickets

To participate, just tell us a little bit about your project. It’s free and there’s no obligation to work with anyone you meet. Space is limited to the first 15 households to sign up.

Please register by August 12, 2009.

Not in Everett? Tell us where you would like the next event to be!

Savvi Speed Dating in Everett

2009-07-22T09:22:00.000-07:00

Savvi Speed Dating is coming to Everett! Featured in King 5, NWCN's "Home Front", The Tacoma News Tribune, and
Remodeling Magazine, Savvi Speed Dating matches homeowners and professionals to talk about their specific remodeling project. It's an easy and efficient way of meeting some of the area's top home remodeling professionals - all while enjoying wine and snacks in a beautiful casual setting.

Each homeowner household will receive a gift bag, courtesy of Contract Furnishings Mart and AAA Kartak Glass & Closet.

The next Savvi Speed Dating event takes place at Contract Furnishings Mart on August 18. Stay tuned for more information!

Savvi Speed Dating in Tacoma

2009-05-12T14:44:00.001-07:00

Join HomeSavvi at Couch's Appliance South for an evening of fun and education. Spend an evening talking one-on-one with up to four remodeling professionals about YOUR specific remodeling needs. We know that cost effectiveness is on everyone's minds these days. These professionals will point you in the right direction. So, bring your questions, photos and ideas - we'll help you get started!

May Savvi Speed Dating in Tacoma

Hosted by Couch's Appliance South

Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Address: Couch's Appliance South
5306 Pacific Highway E.
Fife, WA 98424

Each attending household will receive $50 gift card to Crate & Barrel.

RSVP by Friday, May 15th to reserve your spot!

2009 Tax Credits - Obama's New Stimulus Goes to Work

2009-04-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

While most home improvement expenses do not have a tax impact in the year they are incurred, there are some significant exceptions, and those exceptions change each year. Read on to find out the latest in government tax credit programs.

In 2009 and 2010 the Federal Government is allowing homeowners to deduct 30% of the cost (up to a total of $1,500) for certain energy efficient home improvement products on existing homes.

That means you can spend up to $5,000 on products and get tax credit worth 30% of the cost, or $1,500.

Here are the simple rules to follow:

• The items you purchase must be installed during 2009 or 2010, which means the tax credit can be claimed in April 2010 or 2011.
• The items must be installed in your principal residence, not a rental or vacation home.
• The items must have a Manufacturer Certification Statement to qualify.
• Beware, because NOT ALL Energy Star rated products qualify. To find the list of what does, visit the government link included here.
• You’ll use IRS form 5695 which allows individuals to claim credits for making their residences more energy-efficient.
• Save your receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement. You’ll need them if you are audited.

What qualifies for the $1,500 tax credit?

The government is not allowing the tax credits unless the products meet certain energy criteria (which have increased in strictness this year), and have a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement.

A Manufacturer’s Certification is a signed statement from the manufacturer certifying that the product or component qualifies for the tax credit. The IRS encourages manufacturers to provide these Certifications on their website to facilitate identification of qualified products.

Taxpayers must keep a copy of the certification statement for their records, but do not have to submit a copy with their tax return.

Here is the list of home improvement items that qualify.

• Windows and Doors
• Insulation
• Roofs (Metal and Asphalt)
• HVAC
• Water Heaters (non-solar)
• Biomass Stoves

Installation costs

• Installation costs are included in the total item cost for HVAC, Water Heaters, and Biomass Stoves.
• Installation costs are NOT included for windows and doors, insulation and roofs.

Even bigger tax credits are available

If you are planning a major remodel between now and 2016, the government is giving a tax credit on 30% of the cost for certain energy efficient items with NO UPPER LIMIT. That means you can claim up to 30% on expenses that total in the tens of thousands. The other benefit is that these credits are available on new home construction as well, not just existing homes.

Items included in this more generous tax credit are:

* Geothermal Heat Pumps
* Solar Panels
* Solar Water Heaters
* Small Wind Energy Systems
* Fuel Cells

For detailed information on what the energy criteria are on these uncapped expenses, visit http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits

Top 10 Reasons to Remodel in This Recession

2009-03-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

From Guest Blogger Jamie Goldberg, AKBD, CAPS

Almost everyone I know has seen their home values fall. It is a total downer, I know. However, there is a silver lining to this economic downturn for some of you lucky folks. It's an ideal time to remodel your house. Now, read carefully here, this does not apply to everyone! If you're at grave risk of losing immediate household income or if you have no equity whatsoever in your home, please read no further.

If, however, you have been wanting to remodel for a while, plan on remaining in your home for the next ten years or longer, or want to be a more competitive seller in this buyer's market, now can be an excellent time to begin a remodeling project.

Here's why:

1. The best builders, contractors and trades have much greater scheduling availability right now, which gives you access to professionals you might not otherwise be able to get. As the New York Times put it, during the boom years, "Good contractors were as hard to get as celebrated doctors." Their knowledge and skill are unchanged. It's just that many have more down time at the moment.

2. Given the laws of supply and demand, the drop-off in work has driven down prices on some goods and services. This gives you the upper hand in negotiation. Consider, though, that the best folks are still going to cost more in labor than the less skilled ones. However, they very well may save you money - and aggravation - in the long run, as you won't have to hire someone else to fix amateur mistakes or a lawyer to bring them to heal.

3. Many of the weaker players are being weeded out by the economy before you ever meet them. The remaining pros are better project managers with stronger referrals. This will reduce your chances of running into the kind of con artist that's drawn to a boom and moves on during a bust.

4. New rules make it easier for senior homeowners to finance their projects through reverse mortgages. Contact one in your area to see how this can bring you a new kitchen, bath, addition, etc.

5. There are excellent, new products on the market that will help you save money on water and energy. By building them into your remodeling project, they could help pay for themselves, and make your home more appealing to future buyers. According to a recent study by McGraw Hill quoted by the Wall Street Journal, "One-third of home buyers say they are willing to pay a premium of $20,000 or more for a green home." (Helping the environment is a plus, too.)

6. On a related note, local laws in some areas and new federal incentives may offset costs for water- and energy-saving products you incorporate into your remodel. Please visit this excellent St. Petersburg Times article detailing the Stimulus Plan-based tax incentives. It's a must-not-miss, in my opinion.

7. If someone in your home has respiratory issues, changing to more indoor-air-quality-oriented products can improve their comfort and well-being. There are terrific products on the market now to assist you - and them - in that regard.

8. If an aging relative moves in with you, or you're looking at staying in your home into your senior years, upgrading your home with aging-in-place features can improve your safety and enhance your home's livability and resale value. (Less than 10 percent of American homes are built with aging in place features, while millions of Americans are getting ready to retire! You do the math!)

9. Unlike the house flippers we saw remodeling in recent years to keep up with the Joneses, those of you who have been in your home for a while really know its strengths and weaknesses. You also know what truly makes sense for your lifestyle. This will yield a more successful outcome on your project, more suited to how the home can best be improved for its residents and guests, not just better branded or trophy-filled.

10. If you're spending more time in the house these days, as many folks are, improving your home will provide some anti-recessionary joy. And who couldn't use that taste of sunshine these days?

Photo Note:

A recent kitchen remodel helped this Tampa home sell in less than 30 days last December, at asking price, in one of the nation's hardest-hit housing areas.

Coming Next on Gold Notes:

3/17 - Irish Design... In honor of St. Patrick's Day
3/25 - Storing and Displaying Collectibles... In honor of Elton John's birthday

Visit Jamie Goldberg's blog at http://jgkitchens.blogspot.com.

HomeSavvi Speed Dating- March

2009-03-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Spend an evening talking one-on-one with up to four remodeling professionals about YOUR specific remodeling needs. We know that cost effectiveness is on everyone's minds these days. These professionals will point you in the right direction. So, bring your questions, photos and ideas - we'll help you get started!

In addition to enjoying wine, soft drinks and appetizers, you will receive a free in-home lighting consultation from Lighting Universe.

Please RSVP by Monday, March 16th to reserve your spot. Visit http://www.homesavvi.com/savvi-speed-dating-homeowner.html to sign up.

Savvi Speed Dating, hosted by Pande Cameron
Date: Thursday, March 26, 2009
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Address: Pande Cameron
13013 NE 20th St
Bellevue, WA 98005

Guest Blogger: Jamie Goldberg, Kitchen Designer

2009-02-20T12:47:00.000-08:00

Design & Remodeling FAQs
So often, people don’t know how to start a kitchen or bath remodel, and are afraid of making expensive and time-consuming errors. This posting is designed to help take some of the fear out of the process, and get you started on updating your home smoothly, stylishly and successfully! These are the questions I’m asked most often as a professional designer.

Q. Where do I start?
Start in the room to be remodeled. Take stock of what you like and want to keep – if anything – and what specific parts need to be changed. On a blank sheet (or screen, if you prefer), list what doesn’t work for you and what needs aren’t being met. The more specific and detailed about what you want to get rid of and, more important, what you want to achieve, the easier it will be to achieve the results you want.

Q. Who do I call – a kitchen and bath designer, contractor or architect?
There isn’t a single, simple answer to that question, as each project is different. In general, I suggest that if the overall architecture of your home is going to be impacted by an addition, or considerable interior structural changes impacting an entire floor of your home are being considered, an architect will be an excellent starting point. An architect will recommend a licensed general contractor or builder for your project in this scenario. They may also team with a designer to select your finishes and materials. If your project involves remodeling an existing space, rather than adding on, a kitchen and bath designer is the professional to engage. They will work with you on the overall design of the space, to include flooring and wall tile, cabinetry, hardware, lighting, fixtures, faucets, appliances and even some accessories. The designer can recommend contractors and installers, as well, to handle the work that needs to be done to implement the plan.

Q. How do I find the right person for the job?
Membership in a professional association is one way to gauge someone’s professionalism.

Architects:
American Institute of Architects

General Contractors:
Remodelers Council of the National Association of Home Builders
National Association of the Remodeling Industry

Kitchen and Bath Designers
National Kitchen & Bath Association

Professional associations like these offer certifications, as well, that indicate advanced professional training and knowledge. These are indicated in the initials following a professional’s name.

Finally, before interviewing someone, check with your state or local licensing commissions and the Better Business Bureau to see if there are licensing issues or outstanding complaints against the person or company you’re considering.

After finding someone you think you’d like to hire, ask for both recent and older references. (The latter will be able to share details on how the recommended products and workmanship are holding up over time.)

Q. How much will this cost?
Again, each project is different in its complexity and material selections. As a general rule of thumb, your investment should be appropriate for your home and neighborhood. A complete kitchen remodel for an upscale home in an upscale community could total 20 to 25 percent of that home’s value. It will include top-flight appliances, fully-accessorized cabinets, and top-of-the-line flooring, ventilation and countertops. Anything less could actually hurt its resale value.

On the other hand, a $100,000 kitchen remodel won’t recoup its full value in a $300,000 home. An entry-level home should invest 10 to 15 percent of its value in a new kitchen to get the biggest bang for its resale buck.

Homes in the middle of the market can safely invest 15 to 20 percent for a reasonable return on remodeling investment.

These percentages are applying more and more to master baths these days, as they become increasingly larger, more luxurious and higher tech.

Q. How do designers, architects and contractors charge for their services?

Everyone works a bit differently, so it’s important to clarify in pre-contract conversations just how they do charge. In general, contractors and builders will provide you with a bid for the overall project, based on labor costs and desired materials. Architects and independent designers tend to be fee-based, and will charge based on the time or overall budget involved in the project. Some kitchen and bath showrooms apply retainers or design fees to the cabinetry sales, but mark up labor provided by their subcontractors.

It’s important to understand how you’ll be charged, and what you’re getting for those charges, in order to truly compare different bids.

Q. How long will the remodel take?
This is a three-part answer that has nothing to do with 30-minute HGTV shows. Part one is the planning/designing/shopping process. This will depend on your availability, as well as your designers’. It will also depend on the complexity of the project. In some instances, you’re keeping your existing appliances, so you don’t need to spend time choosing and shopping for new ones. That can certainly shave days or weeks off the process. In other instances, you’re opting for a complex wall and floor tile design. This can add days, in terms of choosing each element of the design and approving layouts. Typically, a full-scale kitchen or bath remodel will take two to three months to plan, including showroom visits, design plan and revisions, contractor bid preparation and consultations.

Part two is ordering your selected materials. Cabinetry can take from two weeks to 12 weeks to arrive, depending on whether they’re stock or custom. Special order tile from overseas can take weeks, as well. If you’re not planning major structural changes, you can wait until the new cabinets arrive and are inspected before tearing out your old ones.

Part three is the actual on-site work. This will vary from days to weeks, depending on the extent of work to be performed. Your contractor can advise you on the timeline in advance. Chances are, by the time the project is completed, you’ll be about four to eight months later than when you wrote your first check, longer for major additions.

--------------------------------
This posting was excerpted from Gold Notes: Nuggets from the World of Residential Design by Jamie Goldberg, AKBD, CAPS, a professional kitchen designer in Tampa, Fl. You can reach Jamie at (813) 810-0467; jamie@jgkitchens.com; @JTGoldberg on Twitter, or through her website at www.jgkitchens.com. You can read the complete Kitchen & Bath Remodeling FAQs posting by clicking here.

Tweeting Live from the Seattle Home Show!

2009-02-16T16:48:00.001-08:00

You can follow HomeSavvi on Twitter (@homesavvi), as we tweet live from the Seattle Home Show!

----------------------------------------

Seattle Home Show Highlights:

Beautiful glass chandeliers from Seattle artist Scott Chambers
--------------------

Energy-efficient cottage, with towering windows. 587 square foot
Idea House from Palm Harbor Homes
--------------------

Free cooking demonstrations from Nutri-2000: Cooking shows include veggie medley, peach cobbler, sesame chicken

Seattle Home Show Tips

2009-02-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

The Home Show is coming!
February 14 - 22, 2009

Seattle Home Show Visitors- Savvi Tips

Savvi Tip #1: Future Seattle Home Show visitors- buy your tickets online. E-ticket holders may have certain offers, coupons, or discounts that you can't have if you buy your ticket at the door. For example, the previous spring Seattle Home Show e-ticket holders received a free chowder voucher, while Seattle Home Show 2 e-ticket holders received free parking for Thursday and Friday at the Qwest Field Event Center parking lot (a $10 value).

Savvi Tip #2: You can register for an additional day without cost. It's called the “Too much to see, come back for free.™” feature, which allows show visitors to register their ID at the show so that they can visit for a second day. This comes in handy, especially if you would like to get more information about a product or show your spouse remodeling plan ideas at a later time.

Savvi Tip #3: Be aware of any other perks or promotions that you can take advantage of by visiting the Seattle Home Show media portion, "Idea Street". One little known perk at the Seattle Home Show is that with four or more people in a vehicle, parking was free in designated lots. "E-Ticket holders reap added benefits including parking for only $3.00 at Safeco Field Parking Garage for one day during the show and the choice of a free appetizer or dessert at their favorite Anthony’s Restaurant, with purchase of an entrée."

For the inside scoop on home remodeling events, guides and trends, visit HomeSavvi for all your home remodeling needs. HomeSavvi- Your Home for Home Remodeling.

Be a HomeSavvi Fan on Facebook!

2009-02-06T11:44:00.001-08:00

You can now be a HomeSavvi Facebook fan!

We'll be promoting our contests, offers, and news on our Facebook page- visit now!

2009 Seattle Home Show

2009-01-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

The Seattle Home Show is coming quickly. Here's the lowdown on this year's home show:

UPDATE: If you have four people or more in your car, you can get free parking! (4 or more park free!)

Here are some Seattle Home Show Visitor Tips you might find useful for the Seattle Home Show. Also, be on the lookout for discount e-tickets, coupons, parking and more within the coming weeks!

Seattle Home Show

Date:
February 14th–22nd, 2009

Hours:
Saturdays: 10:00 am to 8:30 pm
Sundays: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am to 7:30 pm
Friday: 10:00 am to 8:30 pm

Cost:
Adult: $10.00
Seniors (60+): $6.00
Children (ages 7–15): $3.00
Under 7 free

Website:
http://www.seattlehomeshow.com/

NEWS FLASH:
Free Shuttles Discontinued for 2009 Seattle Home Show
News Flash: Free Shuttles Discontinued for 2009 Seattle Home Show

Shuttle buses from Seattle-area Park ‘n Ride lots will not be available to the Seattle Home Show as they have been in the past. However, Four or More Park Free is available daily at Qwest Field Parking Garage, Qwest Field North Lot and Safeco Field Parking Garage for vehicles with four or more occupants. E-ticket holders may park for $3 at the Safeco Field Parking Garage with shuttle service to Qwest. Additionally, we will be offering FREE parking at Qwest Field Parking Garage and North Lot on 2/17.