First Renovation - Need Help

Some of this will depend on your budget and the requirements of the Coop. You will need someone to file for the permits so if you don't use an architect you will need a GC who has the ability to get those done without an architect''s drawings, etc. being handed to them.

Dam27,

I have done many renovations for 1st time home buyers over the years. It really depends on your needs. If you want advice feel free to call me at 646-436-3942.

Hey DAM27,

I'm about halfway through the same process. So far, it has definitely been much more of a hassle than I had ever imagined, but I have learnt a lot. I think the best advice I can offer is to get clear about what you want, and will pay for, before you even start talking to people. Once you start talking to anyone else, they'll have hundreds of their own ideas too (some of which will be good, but many of which are great on paper but not worthwhile once all the logistics are accounted for) and it will quickly snowball into millions of combinations of possibilities and lose focus.

I think an architect / interior designer can definitely be helpful, mainly because they will actually focus on the design in much more detail than a contractor will at the bid stage (which is fair enough) - but even so, if you enter into it without a clear idea of your expectations it can get out of hand quickly.

If you're interested to chat / collaborate at all, you could mail me patricklewis70@gmail.com - I'm at the bidding / approval stage with my project, so I could definitely discuss the trials and tribulations up to this point, and possibly share feedback on contractors as I move forward.

I referred to DCON Renovations and Remodeling,Brooklyn. They are great to deal with,customer service was quick to respond, and fantastic in general. Their services are affordable.If you wish you can visit them at http://dconrenovations.com