1.
 Fun at the Bears Family Fun Fest. Bear Down!

2. Fireworks!


3.
 We gave this little pink donkey pinata a ride to my niece's birthday party!

4.
 We get to take care of this little doxie girl for the week!

Do you have those times in your life where you feel like things are shifting? I've been having this feeling for about  a month now, so I'm patiently waiting to see how things shake out. I'm on the verge of new beginnings, focusing on new projects for my kiddo, myself,  my studio and  taking some new directions...

Lately, my projects consist of remodeling rather than space planning or interior design. So, I thought I'd share some tips that I've found can save you money if you're planning a remodel. Some of these tips are major and project-altering, others are fairly minor but
can make a big difference. Either way, they offer some
great ideas for ways to cut cost, not quality, on your next remodel project.

Tip # 1: Use Remnants

The  term "remnants" can have a bad connotation. That's why they don't get much love.  We probably all think of that one piece of carpet we have left over from our new carpet install seven years ago that sits in the
garage and we use to wipe our dirty feet on. You know the one. The one you were initially excited about because it was a "free rug." Don't deny it...But some of my best finds have come from "remnants" from my subcontractors and suppliers.  Here's how I score them; Once I have a project, I spend a few minutes (ok, who  am I  kidding, hours) assessing the materials I need. Then I pinpoint where the  highest cost will be in my materials list. For example, new counter tops = lots of cost in the actual counter top material. I know, rocket science, right?

Then the fun begins. I call around and see who has just the right amount of  "remnant" material I am looking for.  I have used this method for tile, light  fixtures, flooring and paint. Don't be afraid to ask for exactly what you want
and negotiate a great price. Remember, the subcontractor or supplier already  bought these remnants once, and anything they make on them is pure profit.
Accordingly, start your negotiations far below market
price.

Tip #  2: Define The Job And
Then Bid

Ever had a friend or family member who bid out
a remodel project (perhaps even a small one) and were surprised by the wide range of prices and the higher cost than they expected? In my experience, this usually comes back to a single major flaw: they didn't adequately define the project for the bidders. I've also experienced this myself in bidding jobs.  I can bid 5 jobs using the exact same methods and materials, and I will be the
lowest on one, the highest on one, and in the middle on 3.  When I question why  the results are so inconsistent, I find that it almost  always yields a  misunderstanding of the scope of work. Be sure to define the project scope to
all bidders in significant detail. Consider these questions and provide the  answers to all the bidders.

* What exact material(s) do you want the contractor  to use?

* What colors have you selected for these
materials?

* When do you want the project to start and  finish?

* What products are you buying and what products is your  contractor buying?

* What are the exact work hours and work days you will
allow?

* What insurance do you require of your
contractor?

Answer these questions ahead of time and not only will you receive multiple very competitive bids, but your project will also go much smoother once you award the job.

Tip # 3: Reuse,  Reuse, REUSE!
(This one is my favorite!)

 Sometimes one small  compromise on your remodel allows you to save thousands of dollars. Often time
this compromise involves reusing existing materials.  Take cabinets for example,  for many people, a kitchen remodel means new cabinets. And often times this is
the right call.  On the other hand, I can't tell you how often I've seen  perfectly good cabinets go to waste. Refinishing, painting or distressing  existing cabinets can have thousand of dollars and produce a very  strong,
contemporary remodel look.The same can be said for antique appliances, tile,  mirrors, trim material, wood floors, plaster walls, etc. All of these items have
inherent benefit and quality. Do your best  to reuse them and you'll save not  only money, but help out the  environment.

Tip # 4: Minimize  Demolition
I'm a big fan of placing new materials over old whenever
doing so does not compromise the integrity of the material. It can save dozens  of hours of demolition.

Tip # 5: Buy  Online
I'm often surprised by the deals to be had  online. I'm also surprised at how careful one has to be when doing so. 
Thankfully, buying online has gotten much easier in the last few years,  especially when it comes to getting accurate specifications on the products  prior to purchase. Don't be afraid to review the pdf version of product  specifications before purchasing. I've spent many hours researching products to  ensure the exact right fit when installing fixtures, appliances and building
materials.  Here is a list of my favorite items to buy online:

* Appliances - I saved approximately 40% by buying last year's models of quality  appliances online. Keep in mind that delivery could be 3 to 4 weeks, so plan  ahead.

 * Cabinet Hardware - Be sure to check the dimensions of the  fasteners.

* Stair Material - Trying to match a unique spindle
is no longer impossible.

* Tin Ceilings and Backsplashes - An endless number
of options, and they will  even do shop drawings for you.

* Plumbing Fixtures - Once again, buying last year's model saves a ton. 

So  there you have it, my cost saving tips for you.
What are your  cost saving tips?