Building codes set minimum safety standards for construction.  Generally, a building permit is required whenever structural work is involved.   The contractor should obtain all necessary building permits.

• Hire only licensed contractors.
• Contact the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.com.gov or at 800-321-2752 to verify the contractor’s license.
• Get three references and review past work.
• Get at least three bids.
• Get a written contract and don’t sign anything until you completely understand the terms.
• Pay 10 percent down or $1,000 whichever is less.
• Don’t let payments get ahead of the work.
• Don’t pay cash.
• Don’t make a final payment until you are satisfied with the job.
• Don’t rush into repairs or be pressured into making an immediate decision.

Spring and summer projects are getting underway.  Good luck with your home improvements!

When a professional is required, however, you may need to borrow money to pay for the improvements. One financing option is cash-out refinancing.

Interest rates and the amount of your current mortgage balance will determine whether you can refinance with enough cash to cover a remodeling project and still retain affordable monthly payments.

As with any large project, you need to keep your goals in mind. If your main goal is to increase the value of your home with a renovation, you should first determine how much value each project will actually add. That way, you can decide how your money would be best spent to gain the most value.

Brian Ripp, CRS, GRI, Broker - your  Bay Area Realtor

www.BrianRipp.com   serving Fremont, Newark, Union City & surrounding communities. Real Estate & Property Management.