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The Canadian Home Builders ’
Association is a non-profit organization
dedicated to education, professionalism, and
G.E. Miller Builder &
Contractor Inc. G.E. Miller Builder & Contractor Inc. is a member of the Canadian Home Builders' Association, www.chbavictoria.com, a non-profit organization dedicated to education and professionalism. Renovations Renovations are much more difficult to assess than new construction. Victoria's thousands of homes have been built over decades by different people with differing levels of skill. Some were built recently, some a long time ago; some were built by professionals and some by non-professionals. Older structures are likely to have undergone alterations by an assortment of well-intentioned individuals who often took short cuts during an “upgrade”. Every week, I encounter unhappy home owners who have to redo something that should have been done properly the first time. This is understandably frustrating and costly. Most often it's the result of the previous homeowner focusing on the lowest price rather than the best solution. Quality costs more initially, but it's usually the least expensive and most satisfying solution in the long term. The best value for money is a professional renovator and quality materials and products. High expectations also play a larger role than in previous generations. Home improvement TV shows and magazines display the latest and greatest materials, fixtures, and finishes. You can buy a bathtub for $200 or $25,000. These days, it is easy to spend $20,000 on materials alone in a luxury bathroom or $50,000 worth of materials in a kitchen. Consumers should be aware of their wants vs their needs. Buying a car 25 years ago with crank windows was perfectly acceptable. Today, most of us expect power windows and remote keyless entry. The home is often the most valuable asset any of us will own. Proper professional installation of good quality materials will ensure your greatest asset will maintain and/or increase in value today and in the future. Make sure your renovation is done thoroughly and to your complete satisfaction. It is better to spend enough to ensure a great outcome, rather than spreading your renovation dollars too thin, and falling into the trap of a quick-fix compromise. For further tips and information please visit our website: www.gemiller.ca or call us at 744-3038. G.E. Miller Builder & Contractor Inc. is the winner of 33 awards for excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
Greg Miller , President Professional home building and renovating is not a hobby. Protect your investment and hire a trained professional at www.chbavictoria.com. Look for "Ask a Home Building Professional" every Wednesday in the Times Colonist. |
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CHBA Victoria #1-3690 Carey Road, Victoria, BC,
V8Z 4C2 |
