No More Surprise Costs | How Kochubey Homes Guarantees a Transparent Remodeling Experience
One of the biggest concerns homeowners have when starting a remodeling or addition project is their investment. Will the project stay within budget? What happens if unexpected issues pop up along the way? After working in the construction industry for over two decades, I completely understand how frustrating it can be when you begin a project and suddenly face unforeseen problems that increase the cost and timeline. The good news? With our Five-Point Guarantee, we’ve built a process that helps to address all these concerns from the very beginning.
Planning Ahead to Avoid Surprises
One of the key reasons we ensure everything is planned out ahead of time is because it prevents the type of surprises that often cause delays and added costs. When we design your home and map out your remodeling project, we do so with the aim to avoid major changes halfway through. If, for example, we begin the project and you decide to remove more walls or move the kitchen to a completely different part of the house, it can lead to significant additional costs. Why? Because it’s not just about moving a few items—this requires revisiting and redoing work that’s already been completed. The trades need to come back to adjust the work that’s already been put in place, and that’s costly both in time and materials.
This is why planning is a critical part of our process. When everything is designed upfront, we can price the project accurately based on that plan, saving you from the frustration of unexpected charges later. And with our fixed-cost contracts, you’ll know exactly what your investment looks like from day one.
Budget Cushion for the Unexpected
While we aim to have every aspect of your project planned, sometimes the unexpected happens. For example, during the demo phase, we might uncover old water leaks or outdated systems that need to be fixed to comply with Washington’s code for homes. This is a relatively common issue, especially in older homes (those built before the 1990s), and while these repairs don’t typically blow out your budget, they can still add a small amount to the overall cost.
We always recommend adding a cushion to your budget for situations like this. While the unexpected doesn’t happen on every project, it's not uncommon, especially with homes over 20 years old. That said, even newer homes can have hidden issues! It's just part of the remodeling journey, and we want you to be prepared.
Why a Fixed-Cost Contract Is So Important
One of the reasons we love using a fixed-cost contract is that it offers peace of mind to our clients. All the costs are determined upfront, so there are no surprises when it comes time to pay the bill. With this approach, you know exactly what you're investing in before the first hammer strikes, and that means no stress or uncertainty.
But life happens, and sometimes plans change. If something comes up during the process, whether it’s a design change or a shift in the scope of work, we maintain clear, open communication every week to keep you in the loop. Transparency is key to making sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process.
A Real-Life Example in Bonney Lake
I’m reminded of a project I worked on with a lovely couple in Bonney Lake, Washington. They wanted a full kitchen and living room remodel to open up their space, creating a warm and inviting environment where their family could gather, and their grandchildren could play. During the planning phase, they had a hard time selecting the perfect finishes for the space, and eventually, they change their minds halfway through. Though this added a small price change and a two-week delay, we worked with them to find the right tile for their new kitchen.
In the end, the wait and the slight increase in cost were worth it, as the space turned out beautifully and truly reflected their lifestyle. And not only did this remodel improve their living space, but it also added significant return on investment. Kitchen and living room remodels are some of the highest ROI improvements you can make to your home, enhancing both functionality and appeal. This is important to keep in mind when considering any remodel, as the changes you make can increase your home’s value and make it more attractive to potential buyers down the road.
This is just one example of how we work with our clients to customize each project, ensuring it’s exactly what they envisioned—while still being mindful of the investment they’re making.
Serving the Lake Tapps, Bonney Lake, Maple Valley, and Gig Harbor Areas
We are proud to serve homeowners throughout the Lake Tapps, Bonney Lake, Maple Valley, and Gig Harbor areas. Whether it’s a custom kitchen renovation or a whole-home remodel, we’re committed to delivering high-quality craftsmanship and a smooth, stress-free remodeling experience.
Remodeling your home is a big investment, and we take that seriously. We aim to use every penny wisely and to build you a space that fits your life, your budget, and your vision.
