Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
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Atlanta is not only Hollywood’s #1 place for movie and TV productions, but web series are hot here too.
ATL is a hotbed for web series with huge followings online. Here are some of the best shows that have worked ATL in the plot or are produced here.
Too hot for TV: The best Atlanta web series you’ve never heard of
A lot of these series have street-based themes and plots, but there are also rom-coms and more being made right here in Atlanta.
One Goode Man
“One Goode Man” centers on a young millennial looking for — you guessed it — one good man. The series is well scripted and will hold your attention.
Atlanta Avenue
This new Atlanta-based web series Atlanta Avenue focuses on a series of long stories about bosses who converge on Georgia’s largest city.
Relationship Trap
The G-Redemption web series features a lot of dialog and some interesting plot points. You will definitely enjoy it.
Trapped In the Game
Trapped in the Game is a character-driven web series that delves into the lives of a small group of friends. There are some great moments in here.
Smoking Mirrors
“Smoking Mirrors” takes its cues from other hood movies, but does it exceptionally well, especially when it comes to giving its characters juicy lines. We like.
Trap House Atlanta
“Trap House” Atlanta is a popular web series that shows the seedier side of the ATL in vivid and climatic color. The intense scenes make this one more than watchable.
Pressure
With big-name rapper and reality TV star Yung Joc, “Pressure” stands above many of the Atlanta web series you’ll see. There’s also some decent acting in this tale of drugs and money.
Atlanta’s Ugly
“Atlanta’s Ugly” take a page out of the most famous street tales and casts them in a uniquely Atlanta way.
Atlanta’s Ugly 2.0
Atlanta’s Ugly 2.0 chronicles the Black Royal Family and features drama, suspense and more.
The Streets of ATL
Juug Season ATL
“Juug Season ATL” takes you on a journey around the meaner parts of DeKalb County.
Taste ATL
Taste ATL is one of the more expertly done LTBTQ+ dramas focusing on the fast streets.
Backlash The Series
“Backlash” is a drama-filled web series that has enough plot twists to make you pull out the popcorn.
Atlanta has a lot of TV and movie momentum that videographers, producers and actors are taking advantage of right now. If you’re serious about joining Atlanta’s movie community, you need to be going to movie shoots and auditions.
Atlanta has become a movie mecca in recent years and Georgia has been a favorite location for TV productions since the state instituted generous tax breaks for film companies that agree to shoot locally. Projects from CBS, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the metro area in 2018-19 and the foreseeable future.
With more than 700 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox. -
Chick-fil-A is making plans to expand in Midtown Atlanta with a second restaurant on Ponce de Leon Avenue, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
The new eatery’s design will be innovative and different any other Chick-fil-A in that it won’t have drive-thru lanes, according to news reports.
New Chick-fil-A Slated For Poncey-Highland Area
Chick-fil-A has been tinkering with the designs of its new stores since the COVID-19 pandemic forced them and other eateries to serve customers in a contactless way. The Atlanta-based company has challenged its engineers to come up with new and innovative ways to serve customers quickly without long lines wrapping around the building and into traffic.
The new spot will be in the heart of Atlanta’s Poncey-Highland neighborhood, which has become a food corridor of sorts.
The building is expected to cost $6.5 million, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle. which reports that Chick-fil-A boght the former Dugan’s in March 2023.
Dugan’s has since relocated to the Northlake Mall area.
The news comes just months after Chick-fil-A opened its first eatery on Ponce four blocks from Dugan’s.
Where Will The New Chick-fil-A On Ponce Be Located?
The new Chick-fil-A on Ponce will be located in the space formerly occupied by Dugan’s sports bar at 777 Ponce De Leon Avenue. Atlanta, Ga. NE 30306. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Bite
Chick-fil-A is an Atlanta institution, so another one in the city proper can’t hurt.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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The movie studios and the actors union, SAG-AFRA have reached an tentative deal that will bring the sides together once again.
The deal was announced late Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, by the actors union, which has been picketing for more than four months.
Hollywood Strike Comes To An End
“In a unanimous vote this afternoon, The SAG-AFTRA TV/Theatrical Committee approved a tentative agreement with the AMPTP bringing an end to the 118 day strike,” the union said in a statement. “The strike officially ends at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, November 9.”
The union’s board still has to ratify the agreement, which adds several benefits for actors including:
- Pay raise
- Increase in residuals for shows streamed online
- Added contributions to union health care plans
- Added contributions to union pension plans
New rules were also included that govern the use of actors’ likenesses with artificial intelligence, a major sticking point of negotiations.
The settlement comes more than five weeks after the screenwriters reached a deal with the studios.
The development means that Atlanta casting calls and movie/TV productions may finally increase soon.
The strike was contentious until the very end, with many criticizing the recent comments of filmmaker Tyler Perry, who said that he understands both sides.
“Georgia is a right to work state, but I closed the doors to stand in solidarity with SAG,” Perry said. “But in understanding the working actor, I paid Cicely Tyson $1 million for one day of work … I paid Taraji P. Henson talks about me paying her $500,000 to raise her quotes.”
Tyler went on to say that, “It’s really important to know when we have won. This is only a three-year deal so in three years, we’ll be negotiating again.”
He comments were construed as saying that the union should take what the studios are offering “for now” and to see what they can do after the deal expires.
Earlier this fall, the Writers Guild announced that it has reached a tentative agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
Both sides finalized the deal late Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023.
“WGA has reached a tentative agreement with the AMPTP,” the guild said in statement “This was made possible by the enduring solidarity of WGA members and extraordinary support of our union siblings who joined us on the picket lines for over 146 days.”
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Walmart’s Black Friday Sale has began across the country, including in Atlanta, where you’ll find cool electronics, gadgets and more.
When Is Walmart’s Black Friday Sale?
Walmart’s Black Friday Sale is broken into two days — Nov. 8 and a second Black Friday event on Nov. 22.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about Walmart Plus Week as well as how you some cool items on sale at your local Walmart.
To really cash in, you might want to get a Walmart Plus subscription, which is only $49 for the year right now.
What’s On Sale At Walmart Right Now?
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How To Save Money At Walmart
Saving money when you shop at Walmart or any other store can be a great way to stretch your budget. Here are some tips to help you save money when shopping at Walmart:
Use Walmart’s Price Matching
Walmart offers price matching, which means they’ll match the price of a competitor if it’s lower. Check their website or ask a store associate for details on their price matching policy.
Check the Clearance Aisles
Walmart usually has clearance aisles or racks, where you can find deeply discounted items. These might be overstocked, seasonal, or slightly damaged items. Always inspect clearance items for any damage or defects before purchasing.
Use Coupons
Look for manufacturer’s coupons and Walmart-specific coupons. You can find these in newspapers, online coupon websites, and Walmart’s own website. Walmart also has a free app that often includes digital coupons.
Shop Generic or Store Brands
Walmart offers a wide selection of generic or store-brand products at lower prices compared to name brands. These products are often of similar quality.
Remember that saving money at Walmart requires some research and planning, but it can lead to significant savings over time.
Final Word
Speaking of electronics, if you want to know where to take your cracked phone, here are some handy resources.
Shopping for Gadgets? Scan Our Electronics Page
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The festivals just don’t stop in Atlanta, Georgia. This weekend, do yourself a favor and check out the Atlanta Fall Wine Festival.
It’s one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival is happening in Old Fourth Ward just across the street from Ponce City Market (whoohoo!) and it runs from1 pm-5 pm.
The festival will also feature over 100 different wines, beers and ciders to sample from Atlanta, the Southeast, and all over America. And of course, live music will be provided by a fire DJ!
Atlanta Fine Wine Festival: Everything You Need To Know
This year’s Atlanta Fall Wine Festival promises to be a good one. It is a 21 and up event with no kids, babies or pets allowed. And of course, no outside food or beverages.
The festival will commence no matter if it’s rain or shine. Chairs, blankets, and small bags are okay.
When Is The Atlanta Winter Wine Festival?
The festival is set for the following date and time:
Date & Time:
Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at 1:00 EDT to 5:00 EDT
Location:
Historic Fourth Ward Park 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA
How Much Are Tickets?
Festival Tickets are $55 in advance and $65 at the door unless its sold out.
If you’re wondering what your ticket includes, it comes with a souvenir acrylic wine glass, entertainment, and all of your wine, cider, & beer samples. Food will cost extra. Get the details.
Your ticket price includes a souvenir acrylic wine glass, entertainment, and all of your wine, cider, & beer samples. Food will cost extra. There will not be any Designated Driver tickets.
The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival isn’t the only thing going on these days in Atlanta. Check out the best things to do in Atlanta.
Final Word
Atlanta has just about everything you need for a fun time in a big-city. If you love to laugh, you should check out the best comedy clubs in Atlanta.
For those who feel like dancing or vibing to some music, Atlanta’s got some of the best clubs in the South.
Want to get out of the house during the day? Why not get some shopping in the city by patronizing local vendors with handmade goods, arts, crafts, candles, soaps, vintage and more.
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Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith is no longer playing a game of “wait and see” when it comes to who will start at quarterback on Sunday. Smith said on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, that Taylor Heinicke will start for the second week in a row.
Atlanta’s schedule has been called one of the easiest in the NFL, but its record (4-5) doesn’t match that. The Falcons play the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023, at 4:05 p.m. ET.
Heinicke Will Start Against Arizona
Atlanta lost a nail biter last week to the Minnesota Vikings 31-28 with both teams starting new quarterbacks on the season.
The Falcons’ Heinicke threw for 268 yards with a touchdown and an interception vs. Josh Dobbs who passed for 158, including the game winner with under a minute left.
Still, Smith was evidently impressed enough with Heinicke that he’s confident that he can get Atlanta a much-needed win.
“”You don’t want to play with a two-quarterback system and whatnot. But I think just kind of where we’re at, and everything that’s going on, the bye week will be a good time to assess,” Smith said, according to the Atlanta Falcons website. “I certainly don’t plan on it being week-to-week after that. But we need to do everything we can to go get this win out in Arizona.”
Smith has been criticized for not getting the bill to playmakers like running back Tyler Allgeier, who Smith says is “one of the best goal line and short-yardage backs in the league.”
Atlanta’s breakout back Bijan Robinson wasn’t feeling well last game. He reportedly was coping told with a bad headache. Smith chose not to test him.
Will Desmond Ridder Return?
Ridder suffered a concussion two weeks ago but was cleared to go back in the game, which has puzzled fans who want yo see him play.
Smith said he has just been following the advice from the team’s doctors who hav Ed been examining Ridder.
“I’m not ever going to claim to be a medical expert,” he said.
Smith has purportedly taken umbrage to the social media posts from former Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, who has been breaking down lapses in the Falcons protection schemes and plays.
“I don’t care. I really don’t. Everybody has their opinions,” Smith said according to
https://www.outkick.com/retired-qb-kurt-warner-sacked-by-falcons-coach-arthur-smith-over-hot-takes/. “He’s welcome to come down here to our meetings. I would actually embrace that. I’m sure he gets paid a lot of money. I could give a rat’s… whatever. Unless you’re in the building with our guys and know what is asked of them and know what is really going on.”
Want more sports content? Read why Atlanta is a sports paradise.
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If you own a home, sooner or later you’re going to have some plumbing problems. It’s not necessarily anybody’s fault, except the pipes in your newer or older home. That’s when you may need a plumber.
Looking for a plumber in Atlanta or any other metropolitan city can be difficult, if you don’t know how to get around it. Courtesy of our Home Improvement series, we can help you.
This article will show you step-by-step how to hire a plumber for your home or business.
The reason why you need to be careful with who you hire to fix your pipes is because there are a lot of scammers out there. But let’s start with the problem and go from there.
Identify Your Plumbing Issue
To the best of your ability you need to find out what exactly is the problem with your plumbing. Is there a leak? Do you have water damage on a floor, the ceiling or between the walls?
Determine the specific plumbing issue you need to address. Is it a leak, a clogged drain, a water heater problem, or a larger plumbing project like a bathroom remodel? Understanding your needs will help you find a plumber with the right expertise.
Shop For a Plumber
It’s time to go plumber-shopping. You can do this online but you also need to gather recommendations from friends, family and associates.
Seek recommendations from people who have had positive experiences with plumbers in your area. Personal referrals can be valuable because they have the trust factor.
The easiest way to compare plumbers is to get online and do research. Use online platforms, such as review websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau, to find highly-rated plumbers in your locality.
If you can, interview multiple plumbers. Contact several plumbers to discuss your project. Ask about their experience, qualifications, and if they have experience with the type of work you need.
Inquire about their availability and rates for service calls or estimates.Check Their Credentials
What you want is a licensed contractor who knows how to do the job you want. Some plumbers specialize in different areas. Some may only do construction. Others may be geared toward bathroom remodels. Don’t skip the opportunity to verify that the plumber is licensed to work in your area. Contact your local licensing board to confirm their credentials.
Ensure the plumber carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you in case of accidents or damage on your property.
Once you’ve checked the credentials of a plumber it’s time to contact them to see if they have the time, skills and availability to solve your plumbing issue.
Contact the Plumber
Maintain open and clear communication with the plumber throughout the project. Discuss the timeline, any potential issues, and ensure you are both on the same page regarding the work to be done.
Ensure that the plumber will obtain any necessary permits for your project. They should also adhere to local building codes and regulations.
Request Written Estimates
Because plumbers you talk to are going to tell you what you want to hear, make sure you get everything you want in writing.
Ask for written estimates from the plumbers you are considering. Make sure the estimates are detailed, outlining the scope of work, materials, labor costs, and any potential additional charges.
Compare the estimates to determine the most reasonable cost.Sign a contract that includes all project details, payment terms, start and completion dates, and any warranties.
Don’t Forget About References and Reviews
Request references from the plumber and contact them to inquire about their experiences and satisfaction with the plumber’s work.
You’ll also want to research online reviews and ratings to gauge the plumber’s reputation and reliability.
Agree On Payment
After a conversation of all the expenses involved in the job, it’s time to agree on the cost of the plumbing job.
Avoid paying the full cost upfront. Payment schedules should be based on project milestones, with the final payment made upon satisfactory completion of the work.
Don’t be afraid to ask about guarantees and warranties. Inquire about any warranties or guarantees on the work performed. A reputable plumber should stand behind their work and materials.
Communicate Early and Often
While the job is being done, you’ll want to stay in open communication with the plumber to head off any issues or unexpected problems that arise.
After the work is completed, it’s up to you to perform a final inspection to ensure that the plumbing issue has been resolved to your satisfaction.
Leave a Review and Feedback After the Job Is Done
Consider leaving a review or providing feedback on the plumber’s performance. Your feedback can be helpful for others in need of plumbing services.
Final Word
Hiring a qualified and reputable plumber is crucial to ensure that your plumbing issues are addressed professionally and efficiently. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want and that includes:
- Asking for written estimates
- Asking for references
- Telling the plumber what you want
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and find a plumber who meets your specific needs.
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When you take a look at the real estate market in Atlanta, Georgia, and elsewhere, you notice that some of the only affordable units are older homes.
If you’re thinking about buying an older home, you need to understand that there are some safety risks you assume that newer structures wouldn’t have.
This is another resource in our Home Improvement Series that helps people achieve their goals in real estae.
Why Might an Older House Have More Safety Risk Than a New One?
Older houses may have more safety risks than newer ones because of the vast range of problems you might inherit with a blighted, decaying structure. These more than likely will increase your safety risks.
Outdated Building Codes: Older houses were built to codes and standards that may not meet today’s safety requirements. Building codes have evolved to incorporate improved safety measures, such as fire-resistant materials, electrical wiring standards, and structural reinforcement. Older homes may not meet these modern safety standards.
Lead and Asbestos: Older homes may contain lead-based paint and asbestos materials, which can be hazardous to health when disturbed. Proper removal and abatement are necessary to mitigate the risks associated with these substances.
Structural Issues: The structural integrity of older homes can deteriorate over time. Foundation settling, rot, termite damage, and inadequate support can compromise the safety of the structure. It’s essential to inspect and address these issues.
Pests and Mold: Older homes may be more susceptible to pest infestations and mold growth due to aging materials and construction methods. These issues can affect the health and safety of residents.
Once you consider the risks with buying an older home, here are some other factors that come into play.
Can You Pay What an Older House Cost?
Many real estate professionals may try to sell you on an older home’s “historic” value, but if the comps (comparable sales in the area) don’t match up, no amount of history is going to make that house worth it.
Can You Afford the Repairs?
Older homes often need a lot of TLC to look up to par from bathroom remodels to tear-downs and more.
To fix what’s broken and to help mitigate safety risks, you’ll need to Invest in necessary renovations and updates to bring the house up to current safety standards is crucial. Hiring professionals, such as electricians, plumbers, and contractors, can help ensure that safety hazards are properly addressed.
Read our guide on how to hire a contractor.
Are You Up for the Challenge Of Owning an Old House?
Whether or not to buy an older house depends on your specific needs, preferences, budget, and willingness to take on potential challenges. Older houses can offer unique character and charm, but they also come with their own set of considerations.
Most Important: Home Inspection
More than any other homes, an older house may have hidden damage or outdated code work that needs immediate attention before you can sign the dotted line.
When considering buying an older house, it’s essential to have a thorough inspection conducted by a qualified home inspector to uncover any potential issues.
Additionally, consult with a real estate agent who is experienced in older home sales, as they can provide valuable insights and guidance.
Buying an Older Home: Pros and Cons
Pros Cons Character and Charm: Older houses often have distinctive architectural features, such as hardwood floors, ornate moldings, and unique design elements that can be appealing. Maintenance and Repairs: Older houses may require more frequent maintenance and repairs, and some systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) may need to be updated or replaced. Established Neighborhoods: Many older houses are located in well-established neighborhoods with mature trees and a sense of community. Energy Efficiency: Older homes are often less energy-efficient than newer homes. This can lead to higher utility bills and may require upgrades to insulation, windows, and appliances. Solid Construction: Some older homes were built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship that may be superior to newer construction. Hidden Issues: Older houses may have hidden issues, such as lead paint, asbestos, or structural problems. A thorough inspection is crucial. Potential for Value Appreciation: Well-maintained older homes in desirable neighborhoods can appreciate in value over time. Limited Modern Amenities: Older homes may lack modern amenities, such as walk-in closets, open floor plans, or large bathrooms, which are common in newer homes. Renovation and Customization: Older houses provide an opportunity for renovation and customization to make the home your own. Resale Value: Depending on the local real estate market, older homes may not appreciate in value as quickly as newer homes. Final Word
Ultimately, the decision to buy an older house should align with your lifestyle, budget, and willingness to take on maintenance and renovations. If you appreciate the character and history of older homes and are prepared for the potential challenges they pose, buying an older house can be a rewarding experience.
Keep in mind that with the right renovations and maintenance, older homes can be made safe and comfortable for modern living.
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If you buy an older house, one of the expenses you may eventually face is a bathroom remodel. That means you’re going to have to have some money set aside.
How Much Is a Bathroom Remodel?
The cost of remodeling a bathroom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the scope of the project, the quality of materials, your location, and whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring professionals.
On average, bathroom remodeling costs in the United States can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more. Here are some cost considerations:
A few months ago, we decided to remodel a bathroom in our Georgia home. I knew that I wanted to take an affordable option rather than go all out on the bathroom renovation.
In this article, I’m going to show you all the steps to take to remodel a bathroom for less.
How To Remodel a Bathroom
Before you get started, you need to consider some things:
Scope of the Project
The extent of your bathroom remodel will have the most significant impact on the cost. A minor cosmetic update, such as replacing fixtures and giving the bathroom a fresh coat of paint, will cost significantly less than a full-scale renovation that involves moving plumbing, replacing all fixtures, and changing the layout.
I knew that I wanted to spend around $5,000 on a bathroom remodel. That automatically meant that whoever I hired needed to be a small business owner and not a big conglomerate that hires a bunch of people.
Design and Planning
If you hire a designer or architect to help plan your bathroom remodel, their fees will be an additional cost.
If you’re married, there is a good chance that your spouse may choose to take on this part of the project. Not only will it save you money (like it did in my case) but it can make for a happy home:)
Materials and Fixtures
You also need to decide if you’re going to buy high-end fixtures from boutique vendors or if you’re going to visit your local Home Depot and Lowe’s for the run-of-the-mill products.
The quality and type of materials and fixtures you choose can greatly affect the cost. High-end materials, like natural stone or designer fixtures, will increase the budget.
Labor Costs
Finding affordable contractors has always been a sport in Atlanta, but it’s a necessary endeavor if you want to save more.
If you hire professionals, labor costs will be a substantial portion of your budget. Labor costs can vary by location and the complexity of the work.
Each of these resources has their detractors, but I found a contractor by looking at the following places:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Read our guide on hiring a reputable contractor.
Permits and Inspections
As a rule of thumb, in most municipalities, if you tear down an existing wall, you’ll need a permit to get the work done. This is not only a safety protection, but it ensures that local building codes are enforced.
Depending on your local building codes and the extent of the remodel, you may need permits and inspections, which can add to the overall cost.
Demolition and Disposal
One of the most unexpected costs associated with a remodel is demolition and disposal of the trash. Many contractors will build the expenses of trash removal into their fee, but – as I found out – not all of them.
To save money, I chose to physically remove the trash from my home myself, and it was a major headache!
Removing old fixtures, tiles, and other materials can be a labor-intensive process and may require a dumpster for disposal.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
If you need to move plumbing or electrical connections, it will add to the cost of the project as well.
When you hire a contractor for a job that includes skills of the major trades, it is their responsibility to bring tradesmen in on the job to get the work completed.
Unexpected Issues
No matter how well you plan, there is always the possibility of unexpected and unforeseen problems with a remodel.
In my case, an old corroded plumbing pipe added some significant expenses and time to the project. You’ll have to plan for this whenever doing any kind of remodeling project.
Final Word
Remodeling a bathroom or any room in your house is a major task. There are so many pieces you’re going to have to put together to avoid crazy stress or debt problems.
And you also need to hire a reliable contractor that knows how to get the job done in the timeframe you’ve established.
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Hiring a contractor is a crucial part of any building or remodeling project you plan to start at your home. When I remodeled my bathroom, I had to make sure I hired the right person because I was trying to save money.
This article will show you how to hire a contractor in Atlanta.
Hiring a contractor for a home improvement or construction project is an important decision. It’s also essential to set a budget and stick to it, while allowing for a contingency fund to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process.
Define Your Project
Before you can hire someone to come to your home, you need to have a clearly defined idea of what you want accomplished.
Clearly define the scope of your project. Understand what work you want to be done, the materials you prefer, and any specific design or functionality requirements. This will be essential when communicating with potential contractors.
Do Your Research
Don’t just hire the first contractor you find online. Interview multiple contractors to find the best one that is available and works for you.
- Contact several contractors to discuss your project. Ask about their experience, previous projects, and whether they have worked on similar projects.
- Request references and follow up with those references to gauge the contractor’s reliability and work quality.
Get Recommendations From People You Know
Some associate of yours has likely gotten some renovation work done before. You just have to solicit them for advice and recommendations.
- Seek recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers who have had similar work done. Personal recommendations are valuable.
- Online Searches: Use online resources, such as review websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau to find contractors in your area.
- Trade Associations and Unions: Check with local trade associations, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), for reputable contractors.
Here are some sites you need to check to find contractors:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Before You Hire a Contractor
Always take the extra time it takes to check for licensing and insurance.
Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured to work in your area. Contact your local licensing board to confirm their credentials.
Request a copy of their insurance certificates to ensure they have liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you in case of accidents or damage on your property.
- Get Detailed Quotes:
- Ask for written estimates from the contractors you are considering. Make sure the estimates are detailed, including labor, materials, and a timeline for the project.
- Beware of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or work quality.
- Check for Permits and Contracts:
- Ensure the contractor will obtain any necessary permits for the project. It’s essential that they comply with local building codes.
- Sign a detailed contract that includes project specifics, payment schedule, start and completion dates, and warranties. Read and understand the contract before signing.
Agree On a Payment Schedule
Everyone likes to know when they’re getting paid, so it would be a mutual benefit to discuss a payment schedule.
You’ll want to avoid paying the full cost upfront. A common practice is to make an initial down payment, with the remaining payments scheduled based on project milestones.
Also, never make the final payment until you are satisfied with the completed work.
Continually Give Your Opinion
To stay on the same page, always strive to maintain open and clear communication with the contractor throughout the project. Regular updates and addressing any concerns promptly are crucial.
- Document Everything:
- Keep records of all documents, including contracts, receipts, and communications with the contractor. These can be important in case of disputes or issues.
Make a Final Inspection
The contractor expects you to give the final go-ahead on the project, so don’t be shy about having an opinion on even the smallest things.
Once the work is completed, do a final inspection to ensure that everything is up to your satisfaction. Address any issues promptly.
- Review and Feedback: Consider leaving a review or providing feedback on the contractor’s performance, as this can help others in the future.
No matter if you have an expensive home or an average home, remember that choosing the right contractor is essential for the success of your project.
Final Word
You’re spending your own money, so make sure your contractor and yourself are on the same page at all times.
Remember to get a more accurate estimate for your specific bathroom remodel, it’s a good idea to consult with local contractors and obtain multiple quotes. The complexity of the project and your location will have a significant impact on the final cost.
Take your time, do your due diligence, and don’t rush into a decision. Hiring a reputable and qualified contractor can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.