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Remodel - Without Going Bonkers or Broke: Have a Stress-Free Renovation and Fall In Love With Your Home Again
Everyone wants a home they love and are proud to show off. REMODEL! WITHOUT GOING BONKERS OR BROKE helps you plan and coordinate your professional renovation so the project meets all your needs and leaves you smiling. Get honest answers and step-by-step instruction from a lifelong industry insider so you can remodel with confidence. Now you are finally able to avoid costly mistakes, ruined projects, and shattered dreams. Don't continue to live in a home that is dated, broken-down, or has failed to keep up with your changing life. Apply the simple method in REMODEL Without Going Bonkers or Broke and get ready to fall in love with your home again. Remodel your home and remodel your life!
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2017
360 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 6, 2017
"Remodel!" is like having an experienced, expert, and (most of all) trusted specialist as your personal remodeling mentor.
In "Remodel! Without Going Bonkers or Broke: Eliminate 3 Critical Mistakes and Save Thousands Using This Proven Step-by-Step Method," Jim Molinelli succinctly and concisely boils down a lifetime’s worth of experience in the remodeling business in this well-written guide. He provides the expert guidance needed to take you from developing realistic plans and budgets through selecting your project professionals and entering into contracts -- all while keeping your sanity.
The material is arranged in a very logical order. Jim starts out with a section about remodeling, in general -- comparing perceptions, myths, and realities. This information offers us a first peek into a what it takes to enter into a remodeling project, providing the motivation to make sure we do it right.
What follows next are two sections that contain probably the most important guidance you could receive -- what to do at the very beginning of any remodeling project. These are steps that if not taken, will almost certainly doom any effort to failure. To be sure, very few people undertake such a project without a plan, but all too often, the plans are insufficiently-crafted to ensure success. Jim guides you through the planning process from your first inklings of a desire to remodel, to the final, detailed specifications needed to accurately and completely define your project. The end result of this effort is a complete project packet that is ready for you to take to your project professional.
In the next two sections, Jim describes and details the kinds of professionals that operate in this business, weighing the pros and cons of each. This allows you to identify the type(s) of professionals that can and should do the work you've planned out in your project packet.
The final two sections contain information on how to interview and select your remodeling professionals, including how to guidance on evaluating proposals, managing costs, and negotiating. With Jim's decades of experience in the remodeling business, these insights are invaluable to those of us who have never had any exposure to the subject outside of HGTV shows.
Thus, your journey from first ideas to the start of construction is complete. If you follow the guidance in "Remodel!", you're certain to have the rest of the effort go smoothly and according to plan. In addition to a stress-free ride, you'll save many thousands of dollars by avoiding the costly mistakes commonly made by those without Jim's extensive experience in the field.
I would be remiss if I didn't address the quality of the writing in this book. I read a good deal of material by independent authors... much of it is very good, but very few offerings (especially first efforts) are exceptional. Jim Molinelli's "Remodel!" is a rarity in this world. It's not just a great first effort, it's an exceptionally well-written book, in general. In addition to the content being complete and helpful, the writing is clear, crisp, and concise -- a real pleasure to read. Formatting is also very well done -- the eBook version is nicely laid out and easy to read. Early looks at the print version show that the same care was taken to make sure that it is equally well-crafted.
If you have even the slightest thought of wanting to undertake a remodeling project, Jim Molinelli's "Remodel!" is a must-have resource to help guide you through it with a minimum of pain.
In "Remodel! Without Going Bonkers or Broke: Eliminate 3 Critical Mistakes and Save Thousands Using This Proven Step-by-Step Method," Jim Molinelli succinctly and concisely boils down a lifetime’s worth of experience in the remodeling business in this well-written guide. He provides the expert guidance needed to take you from developing realistic plans and budgets through selecting your project professionals and entering into contracts -- all while keeping your sanity.
The material is arranged in a very logical order. Jim starts out with a section about remodeling, in general -- comparing perceptions, myths, and realities. This information offers us a first peek into a what it takes to enter into a remodeling project, providing the motivation to make sure we do it right.
What follows next are two sections that contain probably the most important guidance you could receive -- what to do at the very beginning of any remodeling project. These are steps that if not taken, will almost certainly doom any effort to failure. To be sure, very few people undertake such a project without a plan, but all too often, the plans are insufficiently-crafted to ensure success. Jim guides you through the planning process from your first inklings of a desire to remodel, to the final, detailed specifications needed to accurately and completely define your project. The end result of this effort is a complete project packet that is ready for you to take to your project professional.
In the next two sections, Jim describes and details the kinds of professionals that operate in this business, weighing the pros and cons of each. This allows you to identify the type(s) of professionals that can and should do the work you've planned out in your project packet.
The final two sections contain information on how to interview and select your remodeling professionals, including how to guidance on evaluating proposals, managing costs, and negotiating. With Jim's decades of experience in the remodeling business, these insights are invaluable to those of us who have never had any exposure to the subject outside of HGTV shows.
Thus, your journey from first ideas to the start of construction is complete. If you follow the guidance in "Remodel!", you're certain to have the rest of the effort go smoothly and according to plan. In addition to a stress-free ride, you'll save many thousands of dollars by avoiding the costly mistakes commonly made by those without Jim's extensive experience in the field.
I would be remiss if I didn't address the quality of the writing in this book. I read a good deal of material by independent authors... much of it is very good, but very few offerings (especially first efforts) are exceptional. Jim Molinelli's "Remodel!" is a rarity in this world. It's not just a great first effort, it's an exceptionally well-written book, in general. In addition to the content being complete and helpful, the writing is clear, crisp, and concise -- a real pleasure to read. Formatting is also very well done -- the eBook version is nicely laid out and easy to read. Early looks at the print version show that the same care was taken to make sure that it is equally well-crafted.
If you have even the slightest thought of wanting to undertake a remodeling project, Jim Molinelli's "Remodel!" is a must-have resource to help guide you through it with a minimum of pain.
March 8, 2017
What a priceless book to own if you ever plan to remodel! Avoid many mistakes made from others who weren't prepared before hiring their contractor. Costly mistakes!!!
Jim does a fantastic job busting contacting myths and providing sound advice to get you through the entire remodeling stage. Whether you are planning a remodel of your kitchen, bathroom or entire house, Jim has insight that you'll want to read and gather before you cost yourself valuable time and money!
Having a great design isn't enough. You need to be able to communicate CLEARLY that design to the people you want to hire to get the job done. And you need to choose people who WILL get the job done right while staying within your budget!!
This book covers everything and is a complete guide to getting your project done right.
Learn how to:
* Create a project packet that clearly defines your goals
* Understand the types of professionals that will be working on your project
* Interview the BEST candidates to work on your project
* Evaluate proposals
* Hire the people who will do the job RIGHT
Stop guessing. Stop rushing to choose a contractor and get prepared for your next remodel. This is the only book you'll need to get the results you want on your project!
Jim does a fantastic job busting contacting myths and providing sound advice to get you through the entire remodeling stage. Whether you are planning a remodel of your kitchen, bathroom or entire house, Jim has insight that you'll want to read and gather before you cost yourself valuable time and money!
Having a great design isn't enough. You need to be able to communicate CLEARLY that design to the people you want to hire to get the job done. And you need to choose people who WILL get the job done right while staying within your budget!!
This book covers everything and is a complete guide to getting your project done right.
Learn how to:
* Create a project packet that clearly defines your goals
* Understand the types of professionals that will be working on your project
* Interview the BEST candidates to work on your project
* Evaluate proposals
* Hire the people who will do the job RIGHT
Stop guessing. Stop rushing to choose a contractor and get prepared for your next remodel. This is the only book you'll need to get the results you want on your project!
March 4, 2017
Jam packed with much needed info
I'm in the middle of many mini remodeling projects. It's a good thing that I picked up Jim's book before I started calling contractors. In this book Jim walks you through on how to properly prepare your remodeling project(s) so that you don't waste your time or money on contractors who don't fit your project. My favorite chapter was about those contractor sites that match you to professionals who match your project... let's say that until you have a clear idea of what you really want out of your project it would be highly advised to avoid those sites until you are properly prepared. The packet that Jim provides has helped me realign my projects and get a clearer goal and budget set in mind. Bottom line, get this book and read it before you even call contractor for it will help you from spending money that does not need to be spent.
I'm in the middle of many mini remodeling projects. It's a good thing that I picked up Jim's book before I started calling contractors. In this book Jim walks you through on how to properly prepare your remodeling project(s) so that you don't waste your time or money on contractors who don't fit your project. My favorite chapter was about those contractor sites that match you to professionals who match your project... let's say that until you have a clear idea of what you really want out of your project it would be highly advised to avoid those sites until you are properly prepared. The packet that Jim provides has helped me realign my projects and get a clearer goal and budget set in mind. Bottom line, get this book and read it before you even call contractor for it will help you from spending money that does not need to be spent.
March 2, 2017
Remodel- Without Going Bonkers or Broke is a fantastic guide for anyone thinking of remodeling or that owns a home. The author makes sense of all the behind the scenes stuff each different type of professional does to move your project along.
The amount of helpful tips and pointers pay for this book over and over again. The explanation of what happens on popular renovation shows and the unrealistic time schedules is enlightening.
The actions Jim Molinelli mentions in this book help any homeowner go from dreaming to remodeling project completion in an honest and straightforward way. I highly recommend this book! Even if you build your own home, the periodical maintenance over the years you own it will benefit from reading this book.
The amount of helpful tips and pointers pay for this book over and over again. The explanation of what happens on popular renovation shows and the unrealistic time schedules is enlightening.
The actions Jim Molinelli mentions in this book help any homeowner go from dreaming to remodeling project completion in an honest and straightforward way. I highly recommend this book! Even if you build your own home, the periodical maintenance over the years you own it will benefit from reading this book.
October 15, 2022
I have read this book twice. It's a very practical guide to remodeling and has excellent worksheets. A great find!
February 27, 2017
Reviewed for readers favorite
Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke by Jim Molinelli helps homeowners learn the dos-and-don'ts of the remodeling process and how to avoid mistakes that lead to horrorible results.
An easy to read step-by-step guide Molinelli details the process in a logical manner with the goal of saving readers time and money.
A veteran in the field, author Jim Molinelli, a licensed architect and business insider, reveals many hidden tips that demystify the remodeling process.
Creating things such as Action Items and Project Planners Molinelli helps guide homeowners into knowing what they want in a project and how to achieve the most out of their goals no matter the size of their budget or the scope of the project.
Reading Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke by Jim Molinelli will open the eyes of any homeowner and help bring them that much closer to the remodel of their dreams.
Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke by Jim Molinelli is an easy to read how-to that manages to strike the right balance of encouraging and empowering the reader the reader to make informed decisions. It breaks down their options and how to best go about achieving them.
Any homeowner should walk away from Molinelli's book with a full appreciation of the work architects and home designers put in along with money saving tips that will make the project much easier.
Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke is definitely the kind of book you want to have by your side. It's informative, easy to read, and enlightening. Would recommend to any homeowner.
Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke by Jim Molinelli helps homeowners learn the dos-and-don'ts of the remodeling process and how to avoid mistakes that lead to horrorible results.
An easy to read step-by-step guide Molinelli details the process in a logical manner with the goal of saving readers time and money.
A veteran in the field, author Jim Molinelli, a licensed architect and business insider, reveals many hidden tips that demystify the remodeling process.
Creating things such as Action Items and Project Planners Molinelli helps guide homeowners into knowing what they want in a project and how to achieve the most out of their goals no matter the size of their budget or the scope of the project.
Reading Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke by Jim Molinelli will open the eyes of any homeowner and help bring them that much closer to the remodel of their dreams.
Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke by Jim Molinelli is an easy to read how-to that manages to strike the right balance of encouraging and empowering the reader the reader to make informed decisions. It breaks down their options and how to best go about achieving them.
Any homeowner should walk away from Molinelli's book with a full appreciation of the work architects and home designers put in along with money saving tips that will make the project much easier.
Remodel Your Home Without Going Bonkers or Broke is definitely the kind of book you want to have by your side. It's informative, easy to read, and enlightening. Would recommend to any homeowner.
March 3, 2017
As a Real Estate professional, Author, and someone who has had a horrible runaway budget experience on a remodel, I loved this book!
It is clear from the beginning that the author is an expert in the remodeling arena. The book is also extremely professionally finished. All the details I like are there: clean look and layout, with "pro-tips", "horror story tips" and great summaries at the end.
What I love about this book the most, is Mr. Molinelli blows the whistle on the scam about sites who rate contractors (hint: Yelp, BBB, etc). As a business owner, I related to the author's comments on how these sites are not in it for the consumer. They recommend those businesses who pay up. Read the book to see the great plan the author lays out to find good contractors and interview them.
More importantly, if you plan on a remodel, and spend a few dollars on this book, there is probably a good chance you will get it back 1000-fold. I only wish I had it 9 years ago. It would have probably saved me 100k.
Highly recommended.
It is clear from the beginning that the author is an expert in the remodeling arena. The book is also extremely professionally finished. All the details I like are there: clean look and layout, with "pro-tips", "horror story tips" and great summaries at the end.
What I love about this book the most, is Mr. Molinelli blows the whistle on the scam about sites who rate contractors (hint: Yelp, BBB, etc). As a business owner, I related to the author's comments on how these sites are not in it for the consumer. They recommend those businesses who pay up. Read the book to see the great plan the author lays out to find good contractors and interview them.
More importantly, if you plan on a remodel, and spend a few dollars on this book, there is probably a good chance you will get it back 1000-fold. I only wish I had it 9 years ago. It would have probably saved me 100k.
Highly recommended.
March 6, 2017
Remodeling can be a real nightmare. I should know I have been there. It can be a daunting process, the design, the material, the workers and the contractors. I ended up paying through the nose for something I could have accomplished for a fraction of the cost and with better quality.
Remodel is a book that is written by a true professional. Jim knows the inner workings of the remodeling game. What once was a nerve wrecking experience for me is suddenly a rather easy step by step process.
The book details the whole process starting with the spark of the remodeling idea, to working your budget, interviewing the people for the job and hiring the right people.
I have read many books but not one like Jim's. As painful as my previous remodeling experience was but I'm positive I'll be referring to this book the next time I think my home needs a shape up process.
Remodel is a book that is written by a true professional. Jim knows the inner workings of the remodeling game. What once was a nerve wrecking experience for me is suddenly a rather easy step by step process.
The book details the whole process starting with the spark of the remodeling idea, to working your budget, interviewing the people for the job and hiring the right people.
I have read many books but not one like Jim's. As painful as my previous remodeling experience was but I'm positive I'll be referring to this book the next time I think my home needs a shape up process.
March 4, 2017
So many people get into strife when remodeling their home, and this is partly due to lack of planning. This leads to expensive
mistakes. Knowing the mistakes most people make BEFORE starting can save both your money and your sanity.
Mr Molinelli, trained architect and experienced remodeler, has set out an excellent guide to help people remodel their home, and get
it right the first time. This step-by-step book includes:
When should you remodel?
What steps to take before you even start
What are your goals for the end project?
Creating a project packet
how to find and evaluate the best remodeler for your home and how to negotiate with them
Myths about remodeling busted!
Whether just doing a small project, adding a room, or renovating your entire house, if you want the best result, this book is the best
investment you can make.
mistakes. Knowing the mistakes most people make BEFORE starting can save both your money and your sanity.
Mr Molinelli, trained architect and experienced remodeler, has set out an excellent guide to help people remodel their home, and get
it right the first time. This step-by-step book includes:
When should you remodel?
What steps to take before you even start
What are your goals for the end project?
Creating a project packet
how to find and evaluate the best remodeler for your home and how to negotiate with them
Myths about remodeling busted!
Whether just doing a small project, adding a room, or renovating your entire house, if you want the best result, this book is the best
investment you can make.
March 3, 2017
In this easy reading instructional manual, Jim Molinelli lays out a concise method for keeping sanity during a remodeling project. He presents a logical, step by step path from concept to completion. This invaluable advice will help any remodeler clarify their desires and needs and methodically walks them through the process. Molinelli manages to keep the reader engaged with informative and entertaining wisdom from many years of experience. If you desire to remodel your home, this book is a must have!
March 4, 2017
Living in SF where the houses are very OLD... remodelling is something we cannot avoid. I only wish this was available before my first remodelling project! But, there will be more I'm sure. The author is an industry insider and shares invaluable tips and knowledge that you'll be hard pressed to find anywhere else. Having already made some of the mistakes he warns about, I encourage every home owner to read this. Knowing way ahead of time what is involved in remodelling the home, will spare you the headaches, heartaches and nightmares that are (believe or not!) actually avoidable! Full of useful and relevant information, in an easy to read style.
March 5, 2017
A must read if you have plans to Do-it-yourself or Hire-out a remodel!! Wish I had this book 25 years ago!!! Secrets of the trade every homeowner needs to know!
March 4, 2017
This book is great because it comes at just the right time for me. I'm planning to move and buy a new house later this year. Jim puts so much information in this book. Now, I feel like an insider. After reading it, I now know I made the right choice to wait to remodel my first house. You don't know what you need to know until a book like this comes along.
March 11, 2017
COMPREHENSIVE AND INVALUABLE A COMPREHENSIVE AND INVALUABLE GUIDE
Jim Molinelli's, REMODEL! captured my attention because our son and his family live in a home that they just do not love. Their dream of buying a dream home some day persistently looms on their horizon. Because we share the same neighborhood and truly enjoy so much spontaneity from our close proximity, the realization of that LOSS in spontaneity between the grandchildren as well as the parents and the tremendous convenience that comes with the close proximity hangs as a cloud over our heads. Reading REMODEL! provided everything I hoped it would for helping a home owner navigate the decision between moving or remodeling.
Molinelli starts with the basics of what goes into this type of decision -- pointing out the pro's and con's of each choice and the rationale to justify those opinions. The author gradually works through each step with consideration and clarity indicative of his obvious expertise from the perspectives of his career experiences as a residential architect followed by 25 years as a remodeling designer.
Those two professional hats have given him a unique multi-comprehensive understanding of the design and building process from the homeowners needs and desires as well as from the designer and construction perspective. His background has equipped him to approach all options from a realistic viewpoint so that the homeowner receives credible information from which to make decisions and then how to move forward through the maze on their journey to creating the living environment they yearn for.
Molinelli states the pitfalls and snags to watch out for in selecting designers, contractors and builders while simultaneously laying out the licensing requirements for different states as well as how to go about knowing who to trust, how to judge their credentials, and assessing their reputations. Each chapter provides tips for navigating each step of the remodeling process so that you avoid mistakes and have a head's up for what to be on guard for. He describes how to select the subcontractors such as electricians, tile contractors, people to help with color selection, etc. This guide is so comprehensive and detailed, it is the equivalent of a complete graduate course in How to Remodel Successfully with Confidence and Realistic Expectations.
I shared this book with our family so that they might consider their options as they move ahead in their life. I would also highly recommend REMODEL to anyone entertaining ideas of improving their living environments.
Jim Molinelli's, REMODEL! captured my attention because our son and his family live in a home that they just do not love. Their dream of buying a dream home some day persistently looms on their horizon. Because we share the same neighborhood and truly enjoy so much spontaneity from our close proximity, the realization of that LOSS in spontaneity between the grandchildren as well as the parents and the tremendous convenience that comes with the close proximity hangs as a cloud over our heads. Reading REMODEL! provided everything I hoped it would for helping a home owner navigate the decision between moving or remodeling.
Molinelli starts with the basics of what goes into this type of decision -- pointing out the pro's and con's of each choice and the rationale to justify those opinions. The author gradually works through each step with consideration and clarity indicative of his obvious expertise from the perspectives of his career experiences as a residential architect followed by 25 years as a remodeling designer.
Those two professional hats have given him a unique multi-comprehensive understanding of the design and building process from the homeowners needs and desires as well as from the designer and construction perspective. His background has equipped him to approach all options from a realistic viewpoint so that the homeowner receives credible information from which to make decisions and then how to move forward through the maze on their journey to creating the living environment they yearn for.
Molinelli states the pitfalls and snags to watch out for in selecting designers, contractors and builders while simultaneously laying out the licensing requirements for different states as well as how to go about knowing who to trust, how to judge their credentials, and assessing their reputations. Each chapter provides tips for navigating each step of the remodeling process so that you avoid mistakes and have a head's up for what to be on guard for. He describes how to select the subcontractors such as electricians, tile contractors, people to help with color selection, etc. This guide is so comprehensive and detailed, it is the equivalent of a complete graduate course in How to Remodel Successfully with Confidence and Realistic Expectations.
I shared this book with our family so that they might consider their options as they move ahead in their life. I would also highly recommend REMODEL to anyone entertaining ideas of improving their living environments.
June 12, 2017
This is the book I should have had years ago when I was trying to remodel my home. Remodel: Without Going Bonkers or Broke is the perfect book for getting your home renovated within your budget and done right.
Jim Molinelli hits all the right topics in this book by giving solid advice on how to:
• Create a project packet that clearly defines your goal
• Understand the types of professionals that will be working on your project
• Interview candidates to work on your project that will get it done right
• Evaluate proposals so you can choose the best one
• Hire the people who can do the job the right way
• Where and how to hire specialty designers
• Control the cost of your house project
• Negotiate for your remodeling project
• And a lot more.
The bottom line is, if you are remodeling, rebuilding, or just doing part of your home such as the kitchen or bathroom, this is the book that gives you everything. Jim outlines every detail from starting the project to planning to hire all the right people. And, you can do it without going into massive debt.
If you want to do your home right, save money, and save yourself a lot of stress, this is the book you need to read before doing anything.
Highly recommended resource that saves time and money!
Jim Molinelli hits all the right topics in this book by giving solid advice on how to:
• Create a project packet that clearly defines your goal
• Understand the types of professionals that will be working on your project
• Interview candidates to work on your project that will get it done right
• Evaluate proposals so you can choose the best one
• Hire the people who can do the job the right way
• Where and how to hire specialty designers
• Control the cost of your house project
• Negotiate for your remodeling project
• And a lot more.
The bottom line is, if you are remodeling, rebuilding, or just doing part of your home such as the kitchen or bathroom, this is the book that gives you everything. Jim outlines every detail from starting the project to planning to hire all the right people. And, you can do it without going into massive debt.
If you want to do your home right, save money, and save yourself a lot of stress, this is the book you need to read before doing anything.
Highly recommended resource that saves time and money!
December 19, 2020
Easy to follow and step by step information
In clear and concise language, this book lays out step by step what a homeowner should do and when to do it when considering remodeling their home. Loved the packet suggestion and elevator pitch. Too often I have jumped into a project not being super clear where I want to go or even how. The instructions and guidance in this book will help any homeowner get the result they want. Love that the emphasis is on retaining control. The book debunked a large number of myths too. Not only should homeowners read this, contractors as well to help guide their clients.
In clear and concise language, this book lays out step by step what a homeowner should do and when to do it when considering remodeling their home. Loved the packet suggestion and elevator pitch. Too often I have jumped into a project not being super clear where I want to go or even how. The instructions and guidance in this book will help any homeowner get the result they want. Love that the emphasis is on retaining control. The book debunked a large number of myths too. Not only should homeowners read this, contractors as well to help guide their clients.
February 12, 2018
Ok if you are not a do it yourself remodeler
Great book if you intend on hiring a contractor, but not much use for a handyman remodeler. I did find some use from the planning section.
Great book if you intend on hiring a contractor, but not much use for a handyman remodeler. I did find some use from the planning section.
August 20, 2019
This book has a lot of information but was not was I was hoping it would be. This pushes you hiring someone to do all your work and is 100% against doing it yourself. I wanted ideas on remodels that I could do myself only.
Read
October 8, 2020The section on hiring a contractor had good ideas. what to put in contract also had items that most won't think of. Good read.
March 10, 2017
Before we ripped out that worn out kitchen...before we bought that fixer-upper house "for a song," to transform into a desirable rental and, absolutely, before we bought our current 'character' home, we should have read this book. Bonkers and Broke doesn't even begin to describe how much grief one home can cause, if you don't have a sensible plan and the expert help to whip your old house into a comfortable home you actually enjoy living in.
The real value in this book is it doesn't 'talk architect' or 'talk builder' it talks human. Real people, real bad-old-house problems, real dreams and aspirations about what you need your home to be and a practical way to get what you need and want without committing financial suicide.
Jim walks you through the Why, Smart Planning, Financing and Execution of your remodel. Well worth your time. It will save you stress, grief AND money. Very logically organized, but still an enjoyable read. His suggestions and how-tos on Making the Need List and the Wish List are brilliant and it leads right into refining your budget. I have another reno coming up soon, and know I'll be re-reading this book carefully before choosing a contractor!Jim Molinelli you've given confused and frustrated homeowners a lifeline with this book!
If you're a homeowner, if you want to be a homeowner, or if you want to invest in real estate, you need this book.
The real value in this book is it doesn't 'talk architect' or 'talk builder' it talks human. Real people, real bad-old-house problems, real dreams and aspirations about what you need your home to be and a practical way to get what you need and want without committing financial suicide.
Jim walks you through the Why, Smart Planning, Financing and Execution of your remodel. Well worth your time. It will save you stress, grief AND money. Very logically organized, but still an enjoyable read. His suggestions and how-tos on Making the Need List and the Wish List are brilliant and it leads right into refining your budget. I have another reno coming up soon, and know I'll be re-reading this book carefully before choosing a contractor!Jim Molinelli you've given confused and frustrated homeowners a lifeline with this book!
If you're a homeowner, if you want to be a homeowner, or if you want to invest in real estate, you need this book.
March 13, 2017
Marlene Wagner A “must have” book if you are planning to remodel or know someone who is. We all know remodeling and renovating houses is a huge industry. What a gift of knowledge and information this author has shared for homeowners. The author did an amazing job of covering every aspect of a remodeling project from start to finish and should be used as a blueprint in working with a contractor. Knowledge is indeed power, and a homeowner will no longer feel powerless when dealing with contractors. Thank you, Jim Molinelli, for your amazing book. It will be my #1 housewarming gift for friends and family for years to come.
September 29, 2020
It's the best book I've ever written!
April 2, 2017
Read this if you plan to remodel, buy or build!
5 Stars
While I have no plans to remodel my home I chose to read this book. I am glad I did. Jim said up front his goal was to teach the readers how to approach a remodeling project. And Jim did that. But Jim did more. He gave us some life lessons we can use anytime we are facing something new to us where a step by step process can help us succeed. Jim spoke about planning and preparation. His examples were specific to his goal of teaching the readers how to get ready for a remodeling project. Planning and preparation apply as the first step of a process to master a process. Jim gave us more than he promised.
I recommend this book for those who plan to remodel, those who plan to buy, and those who plan to build.
5 Stars
While I have no plans to remodel my home I chose to read this book. I am glad I did. Jim said up front his goal was to teach the readers how to approach a remodeling project. And Jim did that. But Jim did more. He gave us some life lessons we can use anytime we are facing something new to us where a step by step process can help us succeed. Jim spoke about planning and preparation. His examples were specific to his goal of teaching the readers how to get ready for a remodeling project. Planning and preparation apply as the first step of a process to master a process. Jim gave us more than he promised.
I recommend this book for those who plan to remodel, those who plan to buy, and those who plan to build.
October 20, 2018
A very informative, staightforward, honest and helpful book especially to those who are in the dark of not knowing where and how to start remodelling their house. My favorite is Chapter 4 as it tells you what to you should know should your decision to remodel is based from As Seen On TV, Ratings and Ranking. Glad I purchased this book.
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