Bathroom, Kitchen & Fireplace Remodeling

Q. Describe the most common types of jobs you do for your clients.

A. Bathroom and kitchen remodels as that is what I advertise for and what I like to do most. But it is quite common for me to take on all type of jobs even the tough ones like installing multiple sump pumps under a house in the New Almaden Hills in San Jose where the houses are sitting on a water table and I have to crawl through mud to pump out the water.

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. When a contractor comes to provide you with an estimate I advise them to make sure that the contractor is licensed and bonded. I suggest that they write down specific questions relating to any concerns they may have relating to the remodel process and that they feel confortable with the contractors answers. I also advise them to obtain at least 3 bids so they can get a better idea as to which contractor might be best suited for the job. I suggest they go with the contractor whos bid is in the middle as that seems to be a safty zone. Additionally, I advise them to NEVER enter into a contract that requires a complete payment up front. Instead make sure that the contract calls for progress payments.

Q. Why does your work stand out from others who do what you do?

A. I have 35 years experience in residential remodeling and repairs and over those years I have learned that most of my customers are unaware of of all the remodel options that are available to them. So from my initial contact during the estimate I take whatever time is necessary to fully explain all the remodel options, material options and cost factors involved so they can then make an informed decision as to how to proceed.

Q. What do you like most about your job?

A. I enjoy my work as it allows me to be creative. Over the past 2 years I have found that there is a large market for fireplace remodeling. Almost all of the older houses in the Santa Clara Valley have old brick fireplaces. Over the years people have painted the bricks and now all the fireplaces look the same. So I started remodeling fireplaces by removing all the old bricks and getting back down to the basics to where I can install either custom tile, granite or marble of the customer's choice. This is truely a form of art as you can see from some of my photos.

Q. What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A. While in todays market the price is the firstmost concern, most of the additional questions are related to my qualifications, whether I can provide them with referrals, how long the remodel process will take. In answering their concerns I assure them that everything relating to costs will be clearly stated in a contract and that the contract has a progress payment schedule which will be followed as this method is fair for both the homeowner and contractor. I also provide them with proof that I have been a State Licensed General Contractor #679042 since 1993 and that I am bonded and insurred. As to how long the remodel process will take...that to is spelled out in the contract as well as all information relating to warranty issues.