To quote from the OTTAWA CITIZEN OCTOBER 2/2010-HOUSEWORKS BY STEVE MAXWELL "Major Renovations are more difficult than they seem...it is prudent to hire a guide...not all contractors are honest...a Renovation Coach acts as an advocate in making your project unfold well..."

THE GLOBE AND MAIL MARCH 1/2011 HOME INPROVEMENTS BY DIANNE NICE " A renovation coach acts as the middleman between the homeowner and the contractor...hiring someone for a fee in order to ultimately save down the road in terms of repairs or things that can go wrong because we did not know"

Definition of a Renovation Coach

We are a fee-based impartial advisor who assists homeowners in avoiding issues with less than honest contractors, the municipal maze of rules obtaining a building permit, budget planning and on-site management so both you and your contractor have a positive remodelling experience. Since Cam has no vested interest in the project, he will be your unbiased advocate during the remodelling process. Do you really understand how the construction process works before you hand a blank cheque to you contractor?

What we do

You may choose from one or any number of the following "Reno-coach" services for your project, it's completely up to you. You will receive a "fixed" fee estimate before we start. We offer a one hour free consultation so that we can see you plans, see if you really need our services (some people don't),see if you actually like us and explain to you how this process actually works.

SERVICES

• Do a complete physical inspection of your home, unlike a "home inspection" we have your permission to investigate in depth on your renovation plans. We have found some homes need additional HVAC, electrical upgrades you may not realize for example.
• Define the complete project and explain how you should approach your renovation or if you should reconsider based upon the inspection.
• Suggest competent professional local architects, technologists, designers or engineers as needed for your project.
• Supply you with a list of no less than 3-4 individual contractors in every trade discipline that will be needed to complete your project. If it's a large project we may recommend a general contractor and give you 3-4 names.
• Develop a budget and supply cost estimates on one or more areas of your project, as you need.
• Coordinate with your professionals, like your designer to keep costs within the budget.
• Explain or obtain the necessary permits, variances and municipal approvals. Make sure all steps and inspections are done to ensure the final inspection is completed.
• Negotiate with your chosen contractors to obtain the best possible price for materials and labour.
• Perform quality inspections during the renovations at intervals necessary to ensure the work is done to code and in a workmanlike manner. Mediate any disputes between you and the contractor.
• Provide the homeowner with a final report on the renovation as to how it was completed, copy of the final permit and full release from any liens with respect to the trades on the site especially if a general contractor was used...did he pay all his sub trades?