Maximize Your New Build or Home Renovation Project

With three decades of building experience in Hawaii, Homeworks Construction’s savvy team knows a lot about preparing for a new build or home renovation. As a longstanding design-build company and general contractor, Homeworks believes in supporting and educating local residents throughout the construction process, and ensuring that the right steps are taken to maximize their project investment. Here, Homeworks offers five key strategies to optimize your time, budget and efforts on a build or remodel.

1) Have a Plan
“All successful projects begin with a clear vision,” states Marshall Hickox, president of Homeworks Construction. Identify your design style in detail, along with what you aim to achieve with specific functional features in your home. Solidifying these concepts will keep the project focused. Distinguishing between needs and wants will define what’s necessary vs. what’s optional. Having clear goals and priorities will help you make informed decisions at the start of your project, and stay aligned with your budget and timeline to completion.

2) Understand Your Budget.
“Budgeting is a fundamental aspect of any project,” Hickox emphasizes. “We work with clients to better understand how budgets and allowances work, enabling homeowners to make informed decisions before signing any contracts.”

An allowance, Hickox explains, is a portion of funds set aside for materials that have not yet been selected upon signing of the project contract. This may include products and finishes for cabinets, flooring, appliances and more — pricing, availability and quantities needed can fluctuate along the way. Establish a plan with your contractor for unforeseen issues and thoughtfully discuss options to avoid going over-budget.

3) Hire Professionals.
The success of your project depends largely on the professionals you hire. Checking portfolios, licensing and references is key. Take the time to do your research. Talk to family and friends for referrals, and browse reviews from trusted organizations like the Better Business Bureau and the Hawaii State Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to catch red flags early.

4) Quality Matters.
Quality materials and skilled workmanship pay off. Investing in durable, well-made products will reduce maintenance costs and increase the value of your home. Understanding the pitfalls of using cheap products and materials, and “new” or untested materials can make a tremendous difference in the outcome of your project.

“‘Building Homes with Better Materials’ is the Homeworks Construction motto,” says Hickox. “Our commitment to our customers and craft accounts for our longevity as a company.”

5) Stay Involved.
“If you can visit your site frequently to monitor its progress, that’s great,” explains Hickox. “Video chats and daily progress dashboards are also available through some builders, but whether you communicate virtually or in-person, stay involved.” This hands-on approach will help you catch problems early and ensure the project stays on track. Questions from your contractor should be addressed promptly to keep your project on-time and on-budget.

Have additional questions about your project? Contact the Homeworks Construction team or attend their seminar, Maximize Your New Build or Renovation Project: Key Strategies for Success at the BIA-Hawaii Big Home Building & Remodeling Show (Blaisdell Center) on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 2:30 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 11, at 11:30 a.m.

To learn more about remodeling, additions, or the home construction process, contact Homeworks Construction at (808) 955-2777 or via email at mrh@homeworkshawaii.com. Head to their website homeworkshawaii.com, or visit Homeworks’ Honolulu office at 2111 S. Beretania St.

For additional insights, check out Homeworks Construction’s recent article, Interest Rates Are Shaping a Year of Home Renovations.