"What is the best way to get an accurate quote when it comes to doing a remodel?"

"What is the best way to get an accurate quote when it comes to doing a remodel?" Erik calls this a great question, but stresses there are no shortcuts to reliability.

When planning a remodel, Erik emphasizes that homeowners often overlook two critical considerations: having a clear vision for the design and establishing a transparent budget early on.

In this Video Erik outlines the key differences in reliability and process between a general contractor (GC) and a design-build firm, asserting that the latter offers a more comprehensive and reliable experience.

In this video Erik explains that the reason homeowners can’t find a set price for a remodel or an ADU project online, especially in the greater Seattle area, comes down to overwhelming variables. “I wouldn't ever be able to say, hey, it's $50,000 to do this,” he says.

In this video Erik strongly argues against the logical assumption that two similar houses on the same street should cost the same to remodel. The core problem, he explains, is the lack of standardized construction in the past.

When it comes to ADUs and DADUs, Erik stresses the importance of a separate entrance for both privacy and practicality. For a detached unit (DADU), a separate entrance is a given, but Erik also recommends providing a dedicated parking space and a clear walkway, especially in concentrated urban areas

Erik, an expert in ADU construction, explains that providing a per-square-foot price for building an ADU is not a straightforward task. "We've not found a solution or a pattern to square foot pricing," he says. This is because every project is custom, with clients having different tastes and preferences that significantly impact the final cost.

Building a detached accessory dwelling unit (DADU) presents unique challenges, particularly during the planning and permitting phases. While attached ADU permits can be approved in a matter of weeks, DADU projects can take "two, three, even four months" due to more rigorous site and environmental reviews.

The question of how to handle utilities for an ADU or DADU is a critical one for homeowners, and Erik offers a straightforward breakdown. He explains that for services like internet, it's simple: you can call your provider and request a second service.

According to Erik, the reasons people build ADU's and DADU's are diverse, though a few key purposes stand out. "In the past, ADU's were usually for mother-in-laws, or for older parents

According to Erik, the reasons people build ADU's and DADU's are diverse, though a few key purposes stand out. "In the past, ADU's were usually for mother-in-laws, or for older parents

The question of whether a homeowner must live in the primary residence to build an ADU is a common one, and according to Erik, the answer is "sometimes." This is a highly location-dependent issue, and the rules can vary significantly.

When it comes to the maximum size of an ADU or DADU, Erik says there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. “It's different per specific area,” he explains. "The better way to kind of put it would be that depending on the area, the location, the city, it's all depending on what they're allowing it to be."

In this video Erik, a leading expert in accessory dwelling units, recently clarified the distinctions between an ADU and a DADU, a topic that often confuses homeowners.

In this video you will see that Erik believes that maintaining organization and clear communication is key to a remodel.

During this conversation, Erik emphasizes that obtaining the necessary permits and approvals is a critical initial step

Upfront planning is the cornerstone of successful home remodeling projects, leading to smoother timelines and high-quality outcomes.

Integrating a homeowner's design preferences with their practical needs from the outset is paramount.

Homeowners often encounter a few common challenges right at the beginning of a remodel.