That puts Kirkwood and Webster Groves in a unique position when it comes to our homes and real estate. There are few other places that offer the opportunities to significantly increase the value of a home with incredible renovations. Let’s explore a couple scenarios:

The Fixer Upper

It used to be that buyers were fixated on finding a “move-in ready” home. But in Kirkwood and Webster, there’s a trend towards buyers gravitating to properties that were once overlooked. Perhaps the home is terribly outdated or needs repairs. There are many things that we at RIGGS find that previous homeowners overlook. These can include foundation cracks, improper wiring, or even simple things like clogged drains and no sump pump in the basement. In our nearly 60 years of remodeling homes in Kirkwood and Webster, we’ve seen a lot of neglect – not necessarily because people were lazy, but because they just didn’t know what they were supposed to do. We find ourselves teaching many homeowners about proper care and maintenance. But this doesn’t mean these homes should scare people away! In many cases, repairs and updating can take place that will bring the home into the current century. The buyer can invest in the purchase price of the home, plus fund the repairs for less than it would cost to buy that move-in-ready abode down the street.

The Bungalow

Many parts of Kirkwood and Webster are full of cute little bungalows built back in the 50s and 60s. They are typically limited in space, most of them 2 bedrooms and a bathroom, and they worked for families back then. Not so much today. Families want more space. They want room to function and feel comfortable. Guess what? There are many ways to add to those little bungalows, so don’t walk away from them! At RIGGS, we’ve added second stories to many of these homes, in effect, doubling the space. There are also homes that we’ve doubled in size by expanding the footprint of the home! Moral of the story is not to limit yourself. Explore the bungalows and expand them into what you want and need them to be. You’ll be getting the neighborhood you want, for a price that may be more within reach than you thought.

Your Existing Home

You love your neighborhood, but the house just isn’t quite working for you anymore. Sound familiar? You’re probably at a different stage of your life than when you bought the house. And let’s face it, trends, styles and technologies have changed, and you’re ready for them. Remodeling your home in Kirkwood and Webster Groves not only allows you the opportunity to stay where you love, it’s also a wise investment. We’ve found the comfort and emotional payback to be priceless, but the monetary return is there too. You can get the home you want, right where you are, with your neighbors and all the things you love.

The real estate market in Kirkwood and Webster Groves is unique. With the right guidance, remodeling return on investment can be quite high, increasing your property values substantially and delivering a dream home.

The post Why you should (and can) invest in remodeling your Kirkwood or Webster Groves Home appeared first on RIGGS Company in St. Louis, MO.

No need to wait, don’t let the weather be a setback to your remodel process. Now is the time to start planning for your remodel and designing. Don’t wait until the Spring and Summer when you could start now!

In the past, and depending on the location, remodeling and construction companies had to close shop for the winter. Luckily this is no longer the case for the industry. With new products and technology, we are able to work all winter long.

Most trades can perform in all weather, but there are some restrictions. The main restriction we find is the daylight hours are shorter, meaning less time during the day to work. The crew will be wearing bulkier clothing so they might move a little bit slower than in the summer. We will also take additional measures to prevent broken pipes, ice damming and other water-infiltration problems. You might be thinking, “what about snow?” Well in reality, snow is easier to handle than rain! It’s much easier to tarp snow and is much more forgiving than rain.

If you’re someone who enjoys spending time in your backyard in the Spring in Summer, you might not want to wait until the Spring to build. People who typically start in the spring usually have a torn up yard all through the Summer. If you start in the Winter, you should be able to enjoy your yard all Summer long!

Another great thing about building in the winter is how quickly the work permits are approved. Because fewer people are building in the winter, there are less people applying for permits.

We are extremely lucky in Missouri to have these mild winters which allow us to work all year long. These past few months have been some of the busiest for us and we’re looking at many more projects coming soon! If you were planning to wait until the Spring, give us a call! You can start planning and designing now and get your build done quicker.

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Step One: Put together a budget
I know this doesn’t seem glamorous, fun or exciting, but  before you start pulling together a Pinterest board of unrealistic, outrageous remodel projects, pin point what you can afford. This will help give you an idea of what you can manage and will make the overall process much easier. You don’t want to fall in love with something that you can’t afford, that can be heartbreaking!

Step Two: NOW you can create that Pinterest board
Your budget is set, and you know what you can afford. Now you can begin planning your perfect project! Pull together inspirational floor plans, pictures, colors or furniture that gets you excited and inspired. Having these inspirational boards helps you feel motivated, and not like you’re starting with a blank slate.

Step Three: Compile your Dream Team
You don’t have to tackle this remodel on your own. Take the time to interview and hire a remodeling professional who is willing to stay within your budget, help you mold and imagine your dream home and execute in a timely and professional manner.

Step Four: Set a timeline
It’s almost impossible to exactly pinpoint how long a project will take. There will always be something that pops up or a product that doesn’t come in on time, but having an overall plan and suggested timeline will keep everyone on task, organized and prepared. This is another step that might not seem thrilling, but you will thank us in the end. If you don’t have a plan, or if you stray too far from it, then you might end up paying for it.

Step Five: Stay positive and look towards the light at the end of the tunnel
That sounds cheesy, but remodeling can be stressful and sometimes it might seem like the project will never come to an end. But picture yourself in your beautiful, perfectly designed home, happily hosting a party or making dinner in your state of the art kitchen with your family, and you’ll know that it was all worth it. And if you’re still stressed out, be sure to check out our blog on preventing stress during your remodel.

You’re not alone in this remodel process. Our design-build remodeling experts would love to sit down with you and help you create the home you’ve always wanted, and help ease some of the remodeling fear. Contact us today, we look forward to hearing from you!

The post Reimagining Your Home: Our How to Guide appeared first on RIGGS Company in St. Louis, MO.

Close your eyes and picture your home in the middle of a remodel project. How does it look to you? Are you picturing a messy, unorganized disaster zone and you as a bundle of stress and anxiety? That does not have to be the case! Here are a few of our tips to prevent stress during a remodel.

Organize before the remodel
Depending on what type of remodel you’re having done, you might not be able to access certain parts of your home. It’s smart to organize and move items you will need prior to the start of the remodel. If you’re renovating your kitchen, move any items you’ll need daily out of your cabinets and have them easily accessible. When you’re hungry and ready to eat, you don’t want to spend time trying to find your forks! Keep all your items in one central location and you won’t drive yourself crazy searching.

Storage Unit
Depending on the size of your remodel, you might want to consider a small storage unit. Whenever an area of the house is being remodeled, items that previously lived there end up migrating and overflowing into other parts of the home. This can be frustrating and get in the way of your everyday life. Your family will feel more comfortable and less cramped if these items found a temporary new home in a storage unit. This way, the remainder of the house stays the same and the construction area is the only place that is changed.

Length of project
A major home remodeling project can be lengthy. Be realistic with yourself and your family and decide if you can handle the added stress of a remodel. If you feel like it may be too much you might choose to stay with family or a hotel. Even a few days here or there throughout the remodel might be enough to give you a mental break.

Timing of project
Many people prefer to plan their home remodel projects when the weather is nicer outside. This way you can spend more time outdoors with your friends and family rather than being confined in the house during a remodel. It’s also the perfect time for grilling if your kitchen is being renovated. Many people will schedule their family vacations during the project.

Remodeling projects are exciting, don’t let the process frustrate you! Being prepared and knowing what to expect will make the project go smoothly. Reducing your stress by being prepared and organized and keeping a positive attitude will go a long way.

photo credit: smiley face stress ball via photopin (license)

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You’ve decided to take that step and remodel your home. Congratulations! It can be a scary and overwhelming process, but that’s where your remodeling contractor comes in to help. Our goal is to help you create the home of your dreams with a pain free and enjoyable  experience. Knowing what to expect before you start the process will help ease your concerns. Here is our list of questions you should ask your remodeling contractor before starting your remodel.

What is the projected schedule?
Naturally you want to know the start and end date, but it’s much more than that. You’ll want to know the larger schedule that outlines the timing of different tasks and deadlines. This will help give you an idea of when different projects within the home will be completed and will help you determine if they are staying on schedule. You’ll also want to know the daily work schedule so you have an idea of when they will be in your home.

Do you have references we can contact?
Ask if you can contact them about their experience. And don’t forget to ask about the company’s BBB rating and safety record. These things will give you a deeper look into the company, as well as third party information about their work, practices, and customer satisfaction.

Who will be at my house?
It can be scary trusting people to take care of your home. Ask your contractor who will be at your house everyday and who will be responsible for opening and locking up as well as supervising the trade contractors. You’ll feel better about people being in your home if you know who they are and when they will be there.

How will you protect my belongings?
We understand you have valuables in your home. It’s normal to wonder how we plan to keep everything safe and clean. Ask your contractor their plans and what, if anything, you might need to do before the remodel begins.

Who will be my point of contact?
If you have any questions during the remodel, you’ll want to know that there is one person you can call who has all the answers. Your remodeling contractor should also know how you like to be contacted. For example, do you prefer an email if you’re at work or a text, or is it best to call your cell? Determining the best form of communication will help avoid frustration down the road.

What is the payment schedule?
This is a good thing to know up front. Each contractor is different, but you should never pay the entire amount up front.

Depending on the scope of your remodel, you might have additional questions that are more specific to your project. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, you’ll feel a sense of relief and trust that will make the process easier for everyone. And don’t worry, your contractor wants you to ask questions! Trust us, we love when our clients come to us with a list of questions, it means they are invested and involved in the project, which is what we want. If you were ready to remodel your home, what questions would you ask your contractor? We want to hear from you!

We STRESS communication.  Communicate, communicate, communicate!

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We are working for Pella to install new windows in four openings. The areas we are installing new windows in an office and rectory bedrooms. Each is a triple fixed window unit and we are removing only the center fixed window, 3′ x 8′ and replacing with a window that will open.

Here you can see the before windows at the Old Cathedral.

Installing new Pella windows.

Historic renovations can be tricky, and need to be handled with care. We are grateful that Pella brought thought of RIGGS Company and brought us on board to help with the renovations of this beautiful, historic cathedral.

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• Home To-Do Lists. Create a list of projects and upgrades you’d like to see completed in your home and put a timeline around each. By setting a timeframe and not leaving it open-ended, you are more likely to accomplish these tasks. Map out your vision for each project and how you see it being accomplished. Not only will you feel well thought-out but it makes the process more enjoyable. At RIGGS, we can help you create a vision based on your needs and wants, and build that into a custom short and long-term remodeling plan for your home. Give us a call today, we would be happy to work with you to create a guide that will leave you feeling confident and excited for your next home project, whether large or small.
• Get Organized. Make it a goal to keep the home organized and clean this year. This can be as simple as taking a trip to a container store and stocking up on storage items. Getting organized will not only make your home look less cluttered, but will also help you feel less stressed and find things easier. It’s an amazing feeling to know EXACTLY where every item is and not look at a messy space. You can get your kids involved in this process by allowing them to pick out their own containers and organization goodies that will get them excited to stay organized throughout the year.
• Renovate or Update One Room. By updating even just one room, your whole house will feel revived and new, and you will feel better about the progress. Don’t feel like you have to take on an entire home renovation all at once. The way we see it, the money you save from shrinking your energy bills can be put towards that room renovation you’ve been dreaming of!

We hope these New Year’s Resolutions for your home are helpful and you might consider adding a few to your list for the year. What are your New Year’s Resolutions and have you managed to stick with them?

The post Welcome 2015 With These Home Resolutions appeared first on RIGGS Company in St. Louis, MO.

An important factor in the home buying processes, especially when you have a family, is the school district where you would be living. The Daily Beast recently shared an article of the 25 Best High Schools in the Midwest, and Kirkwood High School was named number 13 on the list! They have a 100% graduation rate with 93% of students’ college bound. In lieu of moving, now is the perfect time to renovate your Kirkwood home!

We’ve been a proud part of Kirkwood since 1959 and this is a great honor for our community! We are excited to see our city receive this well deserved recognition.

Kirkwood is known for their historic buildings and houses, giving the community a beautiful, old school charm. As stunning as they historic homes may be, many of them are ready for some upgrades. Love your neighborhood and not looking to move? Renovating your home is a great option!

Kirkwood is a great location to raise a family with the close knit feel, great schooling and local community events. This year is the 54^th annual Greentree Festival, located at Kirkwood Park. The mission of the Greentree Festival is to provide an event for the Kirkwood residents that will enhance community spirits and showcase the volunteer involvement of the residents and non-profit organizations. Who wouldn’t want to live in such an entertaining and community involved city?

Looking to start a remodel project of your own? RIGGS is here to help! We offer superior design, planning and remodeling solutions that are truly second to none. Drop us a line or visit us 24/7 at www.riggscompanystl.com.

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One of the first questions people ask going into a remodel meeting is “how much will this cost me?” There is no simple formula to how much a remodel will cost, and every situation has its own set of variables and circumstances that affect the final price of a project.

As a home owner going into a remodel, here are some variables you might not have considered:

• The location of the remodel in your home- is it on the first floor or second floor, and how will the materials be transported? Is it easily accessible?
• Once a demolition project is started, sometimes setbacks occur such as discovering asbestos, mold, or other unexpected things. This would take additional time, money, and crew that would not be originally calculated into a price.
• Will there be a dedicate site supervisor who will be the go-to person for questions, or will that job be run from an office off site? You also have to consider if all the workers on the crew are insured and qualified.
• Will upgrades be necessary to add on during the process? This includes water, gas or electric.
• The quality of the finished product is a major factor into the cost. What materials have you chosen, high end or bargain? Make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each, choosing a cheaper quality product might save you money in the short term, but might not last as long and cost you more to replace.

There are too many variables in a remodel project to truly judge how much the final project will cost. The best way to think about it is cost vs. value. There are many ways to cut corners and save cost, but the higher the quality of the products and service, the longer your remodel will hold its value.

Looking to start a remodel project of your own? RIGGS is here to help! We offer superior design, planning and remodeling solutions that are truly second to none. Drop us a line or visit us 24/7 at www.riggscompanystl.com.

The post What Affects the Cost of Your Remodel? appeared first on RIGGS Company in St. Louis, MO.

Eighteen years ago, Sheldon and Leslie Weinstein purchased their home in Clayton, Missouri. They loved the neighborhood and feel of the area, but the home did not feel like their own. They reached out to us to help customize the home, and make it truly one of a kind. We developed a long-term renovation plan, and over the years have completed nineteen projects on this spectacular Clayton home.

First we tackled the kitchen, completely gutting the room and starting fresh with new counter tops, cabinets, and tearing down a brick wall that separated the kitchen from the family room. The kitchen was small and dark, but by tearing down the wall and updating the features, the kitchen became bright, light and airy. “I love that sink,” said Leslie Weinstein. “I would take it to my grave if I could!” Now that amount of love is what we like to hear!

The original layout of the first floor was far from ideal, but together we came up with a plan to turn the spare first floor bedroom into a library with floor to ceiling custom built bookcases. The room has a grand feel, while still remaining comfortable and inviting.

The basement was a cold, empty, framed out cellar when the Weinstein family first moved in, but we transformed it into a complete basement living area. A media room, bedroom, bathroom, laundry room, and storage room were all added into the basement, helping to create a relaxing area to escape to.

As the Weinstein family grew into their home and aged, they decided to move their master bedroom to the first floor. We opened up the spare bedroom and library and created a stunning master bedroom and bathroom suite. This project took a lot of thought and imagination to create a master suite without disrupting the flow of the house. We are extremely proud of how it turned out!

After years of remodeling the inside of the home, the Weinstein family decided they wanted the outside of their plain, ordinary looking bungalow to match the custom, beautiful look of the inside of their home. During the remodel process, they had neighbors stopping them to remark on how their house looked like a brand new home!

“RIGGS gave me great faith in remodeling,” said Sheldon Weinstein. “They were able to get to the heart of your project very quickly. Anything they did was quality.”

The Weinstein family is living proof that you do not have to move to build the house of your dreams; you just need a good home remodeler who can help make your dreams a reality! We are so blessed to have customers such as the Weinstein’s who have welcomed us into their homes and allowed us to a part of their remodel process.

Looking to spruce up your home? RIGGS is here to help! We offer superior design, planning and remodeling solutions that are truly second to none. Drop us a line or visit us online 24/7 at www.riggscompanystl.com.

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