How to Start Your Home Remodel on the Right Foot: Tips for Choosing the Right Contractor
Planning a home remodel is an exciting step toward creating a space that better reflects your lifestyle and needs. Whether you're considering a kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, basement remodel, or a complete home addition, setting the right foundation with your contractor is critical to the success of your project.
At Odd Fellows Contracting, we’ve met with hundreds of homeowners at various stages of their remodeling journey. Over time, we've identified some clear patterns: the most successful projects begin with clarity, preparation, and good communication.
If you're preparing to meet with a contractor, here are a few tips to help you start strong — and ensure a smooth, successful remodel.
1. Do Your Homework Before the First Call
Before scheduling a consultation, take some time to research potential remodeling contractors. A little upfront homework can go a long way in helping you feel confident in your decision. Here's what we recommend:
- Check Google Reviews: Read what other homeowners are saying about their experience.
- Visit the Contractor’s Website: Look for a clearly defined process, FAQs, and a gallery of past kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodel projects.
- Read Blog Posts: These can give insight into the company’s knowledge, values, and approach.
- Compare Portfolios: See if their style and project scope align with your goals.
You’ll be working closely with this team, so it’s important to choose a company that feels like a good fit. Even 20 minutes of research can give you a much clearer sense of what to expect.
2. Be Clear About What You’re Looking For
One common phrase we hear from homeowners during consultations is:
"We were hoping to hear some of your ideas while you're out."
While it seems innocent, this often signals that the homeowner isn’t quite ready to start a project and may be looking for free design ideas. Most remodeling contractors do their best work when the homeowner already has a general vision — even if it’s just a rough one. That way, the consultation can focus on making that vision a reality, not generating ideas from scratch.
If you’re still brainstorming ideas, browsing remodeling galleries, Pinterest boards, or home improvement blogs can be a great way to get inspired before meeting with a contractor.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Interview Multiple Contractors
It’s perfectly acceptable — and often wise — to meet with more than one contractor before making a decision. A professional contractor will appreciate your transparency and respect that you're looking for the right fit.
To make the most of this process:
- Ask the same questions to each contractor so you can compare apples to apples.
- Take note of how easy it was to get in touch, how responsive they were, and whether they arrived on time.
- Watch for signs of clear communication and professionalism — both are crucial during a remodel.
This step is especially helpful when planning large-scale projects like home additions or multi-room renovations.
4. Know Your Priorities — and Communicate Them
Before your consultation, ask yourself: what matters most in this project?
- Is staying within budget your top concern?
- Do you want the highest level of craftsmanship?
- Is a detailed process and timeline important to you?
- Are you focused on energy efficiency or long-term value?
There are no wrong answers — but being clear with yourself (and your contractor) about your driving factors will help everyone stay on the same page. It also helps contractors self-select: if your values don’t align, they’ll know early on, saving everyone time.
And if it becomes clear that the contractor isn’t the right fit during your meeting, be honest. It’s far better to say so upfront than to dodge phone calls or emails later.
Final Thoughts: Your Remodel Starts with the Right Partner
There’s a lot that goes into a successful home remodel — but it all begins with choosing the right contractor. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, updating a bathroom, finishing a basement, or adding more space with a home addition, starting with clarity and honest communication will make the entire process smoother.
At Odd Fellows Contracting, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From initial consultation to final walk-through, we focus on craftsmanship, process, and customer experience. If you’re ready to explore your remodel, we’d love to meet with you.
👉 Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward your dream remodel.