I have written articles about this exact thing.  My articles have receved over 100 comments from all over this world about remodeling rights and wrongs. As the moderator, I throw my opinions based on 30 plus years of experience into the mix. Read all that you can because education is the key to finding great Edmonton Contractors! and then you can make informed decidions for yourself.

In the 32 years that I have been a Carpenter/Contractor I have basically seen it all and there still is the isolated incident that really surprises me. By that I mean either the Contractor in Edmonton or homeowner making some bad decisions in the course of the contracted job. Make sure you understand that in my experience …the homeowner is responsible for 50% of the problems related to remodel or new home construction disputes.

Shyte does happen and given the chance “it will”. The outcome depends on both sides having solid morals and ethics in how they treat each other. Yes..right or wrong…it comes down to how you treat each other in a “Human” way.

Communication is usually the culprit. A misunderstanding about ,timing ,money,materials or just plain “Gee..that’s not what we/I meant”.

Nine times out of ten the Contractor in Edmonton will bend in certain situations because his reputation and future referrals are on the line. Someone who does Contracting for a living is dependent on making their customers happy. This doesn’t mean that they are always open to manipulation. On the other hand ..Very good Contractors would never take advantage of a customer that has limited knowledge of the remodel or new home construction process in the quest for a one time retirement plan. That always comes back to bite you in the rear.

Over the years I have been part of certain organizations and one in particular was because I was recommended to be a part of it by customers. Find local ratings on who to hire for all your home projects. Angie’s List makes it easy to find the best. Join today. Anyone associated to this referral system treats it like gold because a lot of work can come from this reputable company.

Another is ServiceMagic.com. Find Remodeling Contractors. Get Up to 4 Quotes Now. It’s Quick, Free, and Easy!. If you are having trouble finding a good and solid Contractor in Edmonton.. investigate these two companies. The business people associated with them guard the relationship with the utmost respect. Why…because their livelihood and the bellies of their families depend on it. Check out Angie’s list and ServiceMagic.com to help you through the selection process for the Best Contractor in Edmonton.

Besides providing your home with more living space, a home addition by a Contractor in Edmonton can be a terrific investment. However, before embarking on such a project the homeowner should first consider several important items. These items include: home market values in the neighborhood, financing, size and scale of project, architecture, timetable for completion, personal disruption/inconvenience threshold and the sweat equity commitment level.

Contractor Edmonton-Size of Addition and Market Value

With or without a Contractor in Edmonton prior to actually breaking ground on a home addition, it is best to first determine what you are looking for in terms of additional living space. For example: How many square feet? What types of rooms? Once this is understood, it is then important to find out the market value of homes in the local area with similar size and features to the new and improved home. With this information the homeowner can then calculate the difference between their current home market value and the new and improved home market value. This difference should represent the maximum budget for the new addition if a positive investment is desired. For example, a homeowner would not want to spend $50,000 on a new home addition that provides only $25,000 in increased market value to the improved home.

Contractor Edmonton-Financing

The next important question involves how to fund the home addition. Unless the project is being funded via cash/savings then financing will be required. If current mortgage rates are higher than the existing mortgage, then a home equity loan will probably make the most sense. If current mortgage rates are lower than the existing mortgage, then refinancing the entire home, including the cost of the home addition project, may make the most sense.

Contractor Edmonton-Architectural Considerations

Once the financial items have been addressed it is then time to focus on the size and scale of the project, as well as the architectural and aesthetics of the new addition. The addition should be of size and scale such that it aesthetically melds into the original house. It should not be too small or too big. Frequently, homeowners get carried away and add large amounts of new living space without sufficient thought on the outside appearance. From a market value, there is more to a home than just pure living space. A home needs to maintain its exterior aesthetics as well. It is important to consider such items as siding, doors, windows, rooflines, and elevations. All should meld into the existing home exterior seamlessly and aesthetically.

If an architect is not planned for the project, then the homeowner should at least make some sketches of the home exterior with the new addition. The building inspector will probably require them anyways during the permit process. Also, there are many Home Design software packages on the market today that can help create such drawings.

Contractor Edmonton-Schedule and Sweat Equity Commitment

The next two items that should be considered include the timetable for completing the project and the homeowner sweaty equity commitment level. Many homeowners assume they can do a lot more than they are either skilled to do or have the time to do. From personal experience, I would suggest contracting out the site/ground work, rough framing, roofing, siding, heating/cooling, and the drywall to Contractors in Edmonton. All of these tasks require skill, time and brawn. If local laws permit, electric and plumbing may be tackled by the homeowner. However, both require skill and can be life threatening if not performed properly.Some jobs are better suited for Edmonton Contractors. Other tasks that a homeowner could tackle include installing interior doors, finish trim, painting, cabinet installation, tiling and hardwood flooring. Prior to a homeowner signing up to any specific task however, they should first honestly assess their skill and available time, and compare them to their project schedule. If they don’t match, hire an Edmonton Contractor.

Contractor Edmonton-Threshold of Inconvenience and Disruption

Finally, a homeowner should consider their threshold for inconvenience and disruption if they are working with an Edmonton Contractor. A home addition, particularly if it involves the kitchen, is very disruptive to today’s busy lifestyles. It is also a dusty, dirty and noisy endeavor. In addition, dealing with subcontractors can be challenging at times. For a typical addition anticipate several months of effort and inconvenience.

If after assessing all these issues you are still willing to move forward with the project, contact your subcontractors, pull your permits and get ready for an exciting time. For most homeowners tackling a home addition with a Contractor in Edmonton is a positive experience that provides both new living space and a great investment.

Mike Holmes Claims He is the Most Trusted Contractor in North America.

Mike Holmes of HGTV’s Holmes on Homes claims he is the most trusted contractor in North America. Has anyone ever questioned him on his credentials? Does he hold any type of cerification as a Professional Tradesman? Is he Qualified to work in the United States? Does it matter to anyone that we only hear one side of the show’s story?

I recently picked up the April 2009 edition of Canadian Home Workshop. The front page shows the concerned look of Mike Holmes sitting on the tailgate of a truck. This rising Star of HGTV Holmes on Homes boasts of being The Most Trusted Contractor in North America. An article in the Canadian Workshop reveals some questionable feelings some of his closest colleagues have about him. Jim Caruck- host of HGTV Real Renos, and fellow judge on Handyman Superstar Challenge suggests there can be two sides to renovation woes. But sadly the audience only gets one side of the story from Mike Holmes. Jim goes on to say that what sets their shows apart is that; it’s about real money, real time, real heartache. In other words, it’s not a superhero show. “Just Ask Jon Eakes”, another home-improvement show that ran for six years on HGTV and hosted by Jon Eakes, appeared on Holmes’ show early on. Eakes remembers filming in an attic space with Mike. “He was going on about how the duct work wasn’t up to code and I thought, ‘OK, this is his show, don’t contradict him on camera.’ But I knew he was wrong. The code didn’t say anything about the detail he was pointing at, so, in a way, it was code: just not his code.

I personally have viewed episodes with building errors that could end up unnecessarily costing a homeowner hundreds if not thousands of dollars. One Holmes On Homes episode in particular shows the Finish Carpenter installing a door with improper technique. Shimming a door directly under the header changes it from a passageway to a structural support member. As the home starts to settle (and it will) stress is placed on the side jambs causing the door to bind, not close properly or have to be cut down to avoid rubbing on carpet or other flooring. The proper remedy for this blunder is to rehang the door, and believe me, it’s not pretty, especially after the unit has been caulked and painted. The general contractor is responsible for ALL that goes on during the job including the work performed by the tradesmen. There is no grey area when it comes to the role of the general Contractor.

Everyone makes mistakes but when you have thousands of people watching and learning improper terminology and building techniques, something has to be said. I’m reminded that if financial experts would have spoken louder and longer about the red flags in our economy, millions of hardworking people may have been spared the loss of their savings or homes.

Along with the status of celebrity comes the responsibility of being held accountable and telling the truth. Shouldn’t someone have a proven track record and some form of client base before beating their chest and claiming to be the Most Trusted in another man’s country? Can you really just brush aside a nation of hard-working Professionals who have spent years building their businesses, their customer base and their reputations? The Contractors of the United States are some the best I have ever worked with and to sling mud at them angers me.They are the ones that deserve to be called the Most Trusted in their country.

There is a major difference in how Canada and the USA regulate their contractors. A legal contractor in the U.S. must take a course and pass an exam in order to qualify for his Contractors License. They then must obtain insurance and a bond which financially protects them and the homeowner in case of a dispute. Homeowners in the U.S. are able to view a contractors bio and past history including any outstanding disputes or liens, online, instantly. Since 911, fees for insurance and bonding have doubled and in some cases tripled placing unwarranted strain on American Contractors. Just recently in Canada only a General Contractor must have some form of Insurance to conduct business. That is where the problem begins. The only way a homeowner can check the integrity of a Canadian Contractor including the star of Holmes on Homes is through referrals and viewing his certification or credentials. It’s unclear if Mike Holmes has any building trade certification in Canada, and for sure has absolutely none in the USA. In this day and age Professionals must be able to reassure a customer that they have gone the extra mile in obtaining proper education, apprenticeship and certification.

The writer does understand and has encountered dedicated and knowledgeable Tradesmen that have learned their trade solely through experience. Any Professional will tell you that the most important thing we hold dear is to be respected and trusted by our peers. The stamp of approval from another Tradesman, Contractor or Professional is the ability to receive a referral and perform duties with an excellent outcome. I’ve actually hung my head and muttered “that’s unacceptable” after viewing some of the episodes. If it wasn’t for some of the excellent sub contractors the show hires..I’d think it was a comedy.

People need to understand that Television can skillfully paint any kind of picture it wants. Emotional hooks are immediately driven deep in order to secure positive ratings. Good ratings bring more money. Poor ratings and you’re sent packing. The viewer must understand that TV is entertainment and some information given by the host of a reality TV show could be taken out of context like Holmes on Homes, or be downright wrong. Make sure you consult a Professional with credentials before commencing a remodel project.

Tell Me Your Thoughts

Mischelle Watkins says:
9 days ago

It’s about time somebody was paying attention to this phony. Good job Johnny Kowal!

Desi Brett says:
4 days ago

I’d wish Mike Holmes would quit pretending he is the only trustworthy contractor in the world.
I to am a contractor and believe in getting the “job done right”.Most every contract I go to do these days….the customer already thinks you showed up to rip them off.
NO THANKS TO MIKE HOLMES!! YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY HONEST CERTIFIED CARP IN THE WORLD.IF YOU TAKE YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR ASS LONG ENOUGH TO LOOK AROUND,YOU MIGHT SEE THE LIGHT.
Thanks Mikey

homeowner says:
4 days ago

I’m not surprised to hear about the short comings of Mike Holmes. He’s clearly pretty full of himself and seems to have let fame get the better of him. That said, as a homeowner, I can vouch that many, if not all, of the problems he (attempts) to correct are very real. I don’t think his show exaggerates the problems all that much and I have personal experience to boot. While there are surely very qualified and honorable contractors out there, there are at least twice as many incompetent weasles. Problem is, it’s next to impossible for most home owners to tell the difference. And our government agencies do little to help distinguish good from bad, and futhermore often offer more support to a shady contractor than a dupped consumer. It’s not a black and white issue, and I welcome some any real insight for homeowners besides “get a permit” and “check for references”.

Johnny Kowal says:
4 days ago

I’m known as someone who will tell you exactly how I feel Homeowner. That way you know where you stand with me and don’t have to look over your shoulders to see me coming.

You are not a Contractor and have not encountered or worked with as many as I have in the last 32 years,or completed work in as many countries as I have. I love my career and trade and have done everything possible to get all my certification and knowledge available. There are 10 times as many “Good’ Contractors out there as bad. I know because I am in the industry. I am so disgusted at the show Holmes on Homes because he says the most ridiculous things about contracting. If you are going to sling mud,you better be squeaky clean…and he is far from it. Over the next few weeks I am going to dissect all of his shows and from just 3 episodes I already have an unacceptable amount of errors, Bad building practice and ridiculous claims that would cost homeowners money if they followed his advice. Go ahead and love him but beware what you believe on TV cause it will bite you. Follow my hubs and I will take you deep into understanding why every contractor I know has said. ” That guy really isn’t a Professional Contractor”

I have had the same clients as long as 25 years. That is enough proof that I stand by my work, ethics and Professionalism. If you stick with me I will correct all the damage that has been done and help homeowners get the ammo they need to protect themselves. I will give you so many resources your head will spin and I will give you my best from all 32 years as a trusted Contractor amongst all my peers.

Yours Sincerely
Johnny

WISE MAN says:
3 days ago

I believe in making things right and customer satisfaction. As far as Holmes On Holmes is concerned, it’s a TV show and meant for entertainment purposes only. I do not believe that Mike Holmes knows as much as he may say he does. Although he is knowledgeable in the trade he does make errors and at times costly ones. I tried to become a contractor but very quickly realized that my knowladge was far to weak to persue it so I packed up and went home before I made a big mess of things. I may try again someday but I think for some one like me it’s better to stick to one thing. I enjoyed reading your HUB and look forward to more.

Johnny Kowal says:
3 days ago

Thank You Wise Man. I know Mike is popular and is certainly being marketed properly. My only goal starting up 30-40 mnew sites over the next few weeks is to protect people from nonsense. Give them the truth about the trade that has provided for my family. It takes time to gain the trust of a community. You must earn it by showing you will go the extra mile. I have always done something special for my clients to show my appreciation for their gift of work for me. They either received something I built for them or a free callback..Usually those last the day cause I’m already there and enjoy every minute. I am not at all convinced that some of the shoddy work was done by contractors . It was way out there but I have worked TV long enough to know that they will pump things up to gain market share. It’s common practice to BS us and hook us emotionally. Thankyou for your honesty Wise Man.

Contracting In Honesty
Johnny Kowal

down pillow says:
2 days ago

I agree with wise man here… it’s a tv show and is for entertainment mainly and educational purposes sometimes (even if by accident). He’s doing a job he’s getting paid to do. And that’s to appear on a tv show. Of course there are things being done outside of that realm. None of this is real time. I certainly hope no one believes this man is infallible.

kowality says:
2 days ago

Hi Down Pillow. I love your comments folks. But I have to give you some real experience with someone who asked for help. When I told them what had to be done they repeated “But Mike Holmes Said” This is what I’m talking about. People are taking him far to seriously. Marketing is an incredible science geared to making us do a certain thing. Mike wants you to buy his books and “stuff”. I have read the books and there is stuff out there for FREE with better information. Now he’s claiming to be an expert in Home Inspections. Folks…you are being sold.. Home inspection professionals are highly trained just like Carpenters with certification. Holmes won’t even tell us if he has any certification as a carpenter. And from what I have seen…He absolutely does not. People do take him seriously because the emotional hook I talk about has been set..This is all I’m trying to get across..Over the next few weeks my sites will be up in every major city in North America and I will try and correct the inconsistencies on the show because someone will get hurt by them if not already. I totally agree that there is garbage out there in EVERY field, but TV reaches a lot of people and can do a lot of damage. A stock show host(whom said he was an expert) admitted to being wrong many times and many lost money. I’ve been telling my friends about him for years and some listened. They didn’t lose as much.(Cramer). We do need more honesty out there. Enough damage has already been done in the name of the “Dollar”

Contractor Portland Oregon
http://ContractorPortlandOregon.com
Johnny

Dan Miller says:
22 hours ago

As a real estate agent a lot of my clients need a contractor. I suggest finding someone from word of mouth or certified and always find a busy contractor, its funny there are hundred’s of good contractors for one bad one just like any field.
This Mike Holmes fraud really should be held accountable for his show he goes in and spends 10 times what was first spent on the original job and while doing so cutting independent contractors down. I bet there are thousands of independent contractors that would love to challenge him one on one! Further more what is this guys background is he just some Hollywood actor reading a script? Is he licensed or certified ? Finally i was he could be held accountable for the damage his show is causing i know i cant be the only one to see through this actor!!!

Matthew Neer says:
18 minutes ago

Wow Johnny thanks for showing us the truth. Sometimes you really gotta question the big dogs. They don’t always know what they are talking about.

You always seem to have such a compassion for humanity. Maybe that’s why you are sponsoring children in third world countries and changing their lives for the better everyday.

http://MatthewNeer.com

Posted in EXPOSED | No Comments »