Posts in category: Blog

Home improvement is a great way to create your ideal home for you and your family. It’s so popular that the home improvement industry is estimated to be worth $220 billion per year, according to the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI). This is an astounding number, but it’s expected to continue rising.

Creating a first-floor master suite in your home is a brilliant idea for many reasons. Here are some of the main motivators for contacting design build remodeling contractors and adding a master suite to the bottom floor of your house.

Comfortable and Convenient for Retirees

Growing older old means you may have to change your lifestyle, and this includes how you move around. Creating a first-floor master suite means you can still have a luxurious and peaceful space without the need to go up and down stairs. You may not have any back or knee problems now, but they could show up later in life, and then you’ll be grateful for your first-floor master suite!

Makes Life Easier for Wheelchair-Bound Folks

If you have family members who use a wheelchair to move around, they could benefit from having a first-floor master bedroom. You won’t have to install any additional features such as a lift system on the stairs to make it possible for them to reach their room.

Gives Your Parents a Nice Place to Live

If your parents are needing assistance as they age, why not give them a master bedroom on the first floor? Doing so will make it easy for you to keep an eye on your parents, and they can enjoy a comfy stay with their child. You’ll be able to rest assured that your parents are well looked after and safe.

Adds Value to Your House

If you ask professional design build remodeling contractors about how you can increase your home’s resale value, they’ll recommend adding a first-floor master suite and similar additions. Master bedrooms on the first floor have become very popular; if your house has one, it will be more valuable to buyers.

Makes Downsizing Easier

If you no longer have children or extended family living with you, you can downsize your lifestyle and stop using the top floor. Having a first-floor master suite will make this a lot easier. Having your master bedroom downstairs means you can close off the upstairs part of your home if it’s no longer useful to you.

If you’re building or planning your forever home, having a first-floor master suite is definitely something you should consider. It makes life so much easier and more convenient! So, what are you waiting for? Reach out to the design build remodeling contractors of McBride Remodeling in Petoskey, Michigan today and start drawing up plans for your master bedroom.

According to a Houzz Kitchen Trends Study done in 2020 in the US, kitchens and guest bathrooms were still popular residential renovations (27% and 25%, respectively). Home offices were also fairly popular, with one in 10 homeowners adding or upgrading in 2019. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to upgrade your home office, here are some top signs to watch out for.

The Environment Is Distracting

Distractions abound when you’re working from home. Having a dedicated space can significantly improve the situation, but only if you have a well-designed space. If your existing home office space is too distracting, an entire overhaul of the area could be the best solution. The trick is to work with a reputable design-build firm that thoroughly understands your needs.

You Don’t Have Enough Storage Space

Lack of storage space can make it harder to organize and customize your office space. If your home office doesn’t have the infrastructure to support your work, investing in an upgraded space is well worth it. This will provide you with the right office storage solutions, enabling you to create an uncluttered workspace and improve operational efficiency all at once.

The Current Space Doesn’t Reflect Your Style

Your current workspace might be functional, but if it doesn’t feel like YOUR space, then you’re justified in renovating it. By working with a professional design-build firm you can create a highly personalized space that puts you in the right mental space. If you’re working hard, you deserve to do so in an environment that resonates with you.

You Need a Space That’s Motivating

When working from home, it’s important to have a home office that can help you maintain professional-personal boundaries. Redesigning your office can help put you in the right frame of mind, which can do wonders for your focus, concentration, and productivity.

Everything Looks Old and Worn Out

The most common reason behind residential renovations is an old and worn-out place that’s begging for a modern upgrade. We live in modern times where remote working is trending. It makes sense to get rid of the old and upgrade to the new with a modern office that looks brand new.

These are the top signs that indicate your home office is due for an upgrade. Looking for a design-build firm to give your home office a new lease of life? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.

According to research conducted by Statista in April 2021, for the first quarter of 2021, the amount spent in the United States on remodeling added up to $353 billion, which is higher than in 2020. Whole home remodeling involves modernizing a whole home, part of a home, or adding new structures within the home. Here is what a whole home remodeling project entails:

1. A Plan

Remodeling a whole home should come with a concrete plan. A clear picture of what is to be improved in any home is crucial as this saves on time and finances. How much space are you willing to modernize? Come up with what needs a do-up and focus on those areas. Indulging in too much at the same time can be confusing and tiresome; a step-by-step home remodeling plan will bring adaptation and an easy transition.

Explore and consult widely before embarking on any remodeling project. It is also important to include any future plans when doing a whole home remodel. Factors to consider include the number of people to be accommodated in the home in years to come, accessibility, and how valuable the home becomes in case of resale or even lease.

2. Professional Design-Build Contractors

A professional design-build contractor is best when it comes to whole home remodeling. They not only offer professional advice on what will work and what won’t, but they also subcontract personnel in different areas of expertise like plumbing, electricity, and carpentry. Also, they come up with reasonable budgets per the client’s needs.

3. A Budget

In any renovation project, one has to have a planned budget. Ideally, one should have an overview of how much they are willing to put into any remodeling project. Together with the contractor, they can come up with a plan that will fall into the allocated budget.

4. Personal Touch

Everyone has a different flair and personal taste, but as much as this is the case, choose a style and design that will stand the test of time. The wrong choice will bring the need for modernizing again in years to come. Consult with your design builders to come up with a durable style. This will go a long way in ensuring your whole home remodeling project is worth it.

Contact our professional whole home remodeling contractors for help with your project. We help families in the Northern Michigan area create their dream home.

Making the decision to add on to your home is a big one. Not only will it require a significant financial investment, but it will also impact the look and feel of your home. And while you may be eager to get started on your project, it’s important to take the time to select the right home addition contractors. Here are five questions to ask when as you weigh your options.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

When looking for home addition contractors, it’s important to ask how much experience they have. There are a few reasons for this. First, an experienced contractor is more likely to be familiar with the building codes in your area. This is important because you want to ensure that your home addition is up to code and meets all safety standards.

Second, an experienced contractor will have a better understanding of the construction process and will be able to complete your project in a timely manner. Finally, an experienced contractor is more likely to have a good working relationship with other tradespeople, which will make the construction process go more smoothly.

2. Have You Completed Projects Similar to Mine?

This question is important because you want to ensure that they have the experience and expertise to handle your specific project. For example, if you’re planning a second-story addition, you’ll want to ensure that the contractor you choose has experience building similar structures. Asking about previous projects will also give you a better idea of the contractor’s quality of work.

3. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Make sure that your contractor is licensed and insured. This protects you in case something goes wrong during the construction process. If the contractor is not licensed or insured, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur.

4. Do You Offer Written Contracts?

Be sure to get a written contract from your contractor. This contract should outline the scope of work, start and end dates, payment terms, and any other important details. Having a written contract protects you in case there are any disagreements or misunderstandings later on.

5. Do You Have Any References?

It’s always a good idea to ask for references from all the potential home addition contractors you are considering. This will allow you to hear first-hand from other homeowners about their experiences working with the contractor. Be sure to follow up with references and ask specific questions about the quality of work, timeliness, and overall experience.

According to a NerdWallet survey conducted online by The Harris Poll, 61% of surveyed homeowners have undertaken home improvement projects since March 1, 2020. Some of these are home additions. Those who took their time to interview and ask questions of their home addition contractors undoubtedly had a better experience than those who did not. So, ensure you ask these questions.

Looking for a reputable home addition contractor? Call us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

If you’re like most people, your kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where you gather with family and friends, cook meals, and enjoy each other’s company. But if your kitchen is outdated or needs repair, it can be a source of stress rather than joy. That’s where kitchen renovations come in. But you might not be sure whether to go all out and get a full kitchen renovation or just stick to a few cosmetic updates. Here’s a look at some of the benefits of a full kitchen renovation to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

1. Improved Functionality

A full kitchen renovation lets you really assess your needs and figure out how to make your kitchen more functional. Perhaps you need more storage space or want to reconfigure the layout to make it more user-friendly. Whatever the case may be, a full renovation gives you the chance to customize your kitchen to meet your needs.

2. Increased Home Value

Even though it may be a big investment, a full kitchen renovation can actually increase the value of your home. According to the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Remodeling Contractors, in 2020 homeowners typically recovered about 59% of the money spent on a full kitchen remodel and up to 50% for a new master suite. So, if you’re thinking about selling your home in the future, a complete kitchen renovation can be a wise investment.

3. Enhanced Energy Efficiency

If your kitchen is more than a few decades old, it’s probably not very energy efficient. Outdated appliances and inefficient lighting can add to your energy bill. A full kitchen renovation gives you the chance to update your appliances and lighting to more energy-efficient models, which can help you save money in the long run.

4. Improved Aesthetics

Of course, one of the main reasons people opt for a full kitchen renovation is because they want their kitchen to look nicer. And there’s no denying that a complete makeover can transform the look of your kitchen! But it’s not just about looks. A well-designed kitchen can make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable. So, if you’re tired of your old, outdated kitchen, a full renovation might be just what you need.

As you can see, there are several benefits to a full kitchen renovation. If you’re considering a kitchen update, be sure to weigh the pros and cons to decide if a complete makeover is right for you. Ready to start your kitchen renovation? Contact us today to get started!

The kitchen is often said to be the heart of the home, and for good reason. It’s where we gather to cook, eat, and spend time with family and friends. However, many kitchens are in need of a facelift. If your kitchen is outdated or no longer meets your needs, a remodeling project may be the perfect solution. Here are four reasons to consider a kitchen remodeling project.

1. Increase Home Value

When considering a kitchen remodel, one of the first things that homeowners think about is how the changes will affect their home’s resale value. A kitchen is often one of the most used rooms in the home, and potential buyers are willing to pay more for a house with a functional and beautiful kitchen. Even if you don’t have immediate plans to sell, a kitchen remodel can still add significant value to your home.

2. Create More Space and Improve Functionality

Another reason for undertaking a kitchen remodel is to create more space. If your current kitchen feels cramped and cluttered, consider opening up the layout or expanding into an adjacent room. This will give you the opportunity to add new features and improve the overall flow of the space.

Remodeling also gives you the chance to improve the functionality of your kitchen. If you currently have a dysfunctional layout or outdated appliances, a remodel can make your kitchen more user-friendly and efficient.

3. Improve Energy Efficiency

Older kitchens often waste a lot of energy, which can be both costly and bad for the environment. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, consider ways to make your space more energy efficient. This can include anything from installing energy-efficient appliances to using sustainable materials.

4. Make Your Kitchen Your Own

Ultimately, kitchen remodeling allows you to make your space work better for your needs and your family’s needs. This is your chance to add personal touches and create a kitchen that truly reflects your style. Whether you want a sleek and modern space or a cozy and traditional kitchen, a remodel can make your dream kitchen a reality.

A recent poll conducted by NerdWallet found that roughly 34% of homeowners who completed home renovation projects in the past two years cited pandemic-related social distancing measures as the reason they took them on. However, regardless of your motivations for a kitchen remodel, the most important thing is to work with a reputable contractor who can help you bring your vision to life. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel in the near future, contact us today for a free consultation.

Hesitating to start a home project during uncertain times? You’re not alone. It’s no secret that supply disruptions and worker shortages continue to be an issue in the construction industry. Although some materials are becoming easier to get ahold of, others, such as windows, exterior doors, cabinetry, and countertops, can take months to arrive. Additionally, our trade partners are busier than ever, making scheduling difficult.

Fortunately, McBride Remodeling has the experience, relationships, and skills to navigate these challenges successfully. Here are three ways we’re getting projects done as efficiently as possible and keeping our homeowners happy:

Careful Planning & Organization

Executing a home remodel requires strategic planning, foresight, and meticulous organization. Each project is like a jigsaw puzzle we tackle one piece at a time – looking at all the elements and figuring out the best and most efficient way to put them together. In our 40 years of service to Northern Michigan homeowners, we’ve learned which materials to order first, which parts of the job take longer than others, and how to prioritize to complete the project with the least amount of disruptions. 

Maintaining Strong Relationships

Having the right connections is essential, especially during challenging times. Fortunately, we have strong, established relationships with vendors who can get us what we need when we need it. We always treat them with respect and consider what’s best for them in our planning, and in return, they tolerate our persistent check-ins and phone calls.  

Consistent Communication

At McBride, we pledge consistent communication to our homeowners so they never feel in the dark about the progress of their remodel. Whether we’re moving forward as expected or have reached some bumps in the road, we keep everyone updated and return calls promptly. 

Now is still a good time to remodel despite the challenges we’re facing. Although it may take longer than we’d like, our team is ready to take on your remodeling project and provide you with a positive experience. 

If you have any questions or concerns about an update to your home, contact us. 

Are you considering remodeling your kitchen? If so, you may be wondering how to go about it. Kitchen remodeling contractors can help you with every step of the process, from planning to execution. Here are ways they can help you.

1. They Can Help You Come Up with a Plan

Coming up with a plan for your kitchen remodel can be overwhelming. There are many things to consider, such as what you want the end result to look like, how much you’re willing to spend, and how long you’re willing to wait. Kitchen remodeling contractors can help you figure all of that out. They’ll sit down with you and ask questions about what you want and need from your new kitchen. They’ll also take measurements of your current kitchen to get an idea of what’s possible.

2. They Can Help You Get the Right Permits

Depending on the scope of your kitchen remodel, you may need to get permits from your city or county. This is usually the case if you’re doing any structural work, such as moving walls or adding new windows. A contractor can assist you in determining which permits you’ll require and then handle getting them for you. This can save you a lot of time and hassle.

3. They Can Help You Find the Right Materials

There are so many choices when it comes to materials for your kitchen remodel. Do you want granite countertops or laminate? Wood floors or tile? Contractors providing kitchen makeover services can help you evaluate your alternatives and select the best materials for your needs and budget. They can also get discounts on materials, which can save you money.

4. They Can Coordinate the Subcontractors

If your kitchen remodel involves any work that needs to be done by a subcontractor, such as electrical or plumbing, your contractor can take care of coordinating that for you. They’ll ensure the work is done when it’s supposed to be and that everything meets code. This can save you a lot of stress.

5. They Can Help You Stay on Budget

It’s easy to go over budget when you’re remodeling your kitchen. There are many tempting things to add, and the costs can add up quickly. Kitchen remodeling contractors can help you stay on track by keeping an eye on the budget and letting you know what costs are realistic. This can save you a lot of money in the long run.

As you can see, there are many ways that kitchen remodeling contractors can help you with your project. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, talk to a contractor about how they can help you. You may be surprised at how much they can do for you. Contact us today to learn more.

There are many reasons why you might choose to remodel your home. You may want to update the look of your house, make it more energy-efficient, or add extra living space. No matter your reasons, there’s one thing you should always keep in mind: hiring a professional home remodeling service is always the best option. Here are three reasons why.

1. Expertise and the Use of Quality Materials

A professional home remodeling service will have the expertise and experience to get the job done right, from start to finish. They’ll know how to navigate any challenges that come up during the remodeling process and will be able to handle all the logistics involved.

In addition, they’ll only use high-quality materials to complete the job. This is important because using inferior materials will result in a lower-quality finished product. Remember, they’ll also be able to source high-quality materials at a lower cost than you could on your own.

2. Save Time and Money

Remodeling a home can be a very time-consuming process. By hiring a professional service, you’ll be able to save yourself a lot of time and hassle. They’ll take care of everything from start to finish, including all the planning and paperwork. Also, they’ll often be able to do the job more quickly and efficiently than you could on your own. And you’ll save money on labor costs, as well as on the cost of materials.

3. Peace of Mind

When you hire a professional home remodeling service, you can rest assured knowing that the job will be done right. They’ll have the experience and expertise to handle every aspect of the remodeling process, from start to finish. This means that you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the process, knowing that everything is in good hands.

4. Warranties and Guarantees

Another great reason to hire a professional home remodeling service is that they will often offer warranties and guarantees on their work. This means that if something goes wrong, you’ll be covered. For example, if the job is not completed to your satisfaction, or if the materials they use turn out to be defective, you won’t have to worry. The service will be responsible for fixing the issue.

According to industry figures, Americans spend more than $400 billion each year on house renovations and repairs. This number will continue to grow as more and more people look to update their homes. If you’re thinking of remodeling your home, be sure to hire a professional home remodeling service. You won’t regret it.

Are you thinking of remodeling your home? Call us today for a free consultation. Our experts will be happy to help you plan and execute your perfect home renovation.