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The Challenge and The Solution
Case Study 1
Combining two apartments within a very short time frame
The Situation - The client needed a fast decision about the merits of purchasing and combining two apartments. He needed to know what permits if any, would be required, and he also needed to evaluate potential remodeling configurations that would offer maximum resale value.
He had to get out of his current rental apartment quickly in order to avoid having to pay for two apartments. He had very limited funds and could not afford to retain a full time architect to develop the project. He needed estimates of the conversion costs. Immediately.
Action Taken - This is the kind of project that we relish at Chamberlain Home Improvement Services. We took detailed measurements of the apartments and identified the structural components. We developed several concept designs and feasibility options to minimize major renovations of the bathrooms, kitchen and bedrooms. We suggested multiple choices to maximize space and cost trade-offs.
We secured contractor discounts for major appliances saving the client over 20%. We created an almost complete redesign on-the-fly when unforeseen structural impediments became known without incurring any contractor downtime or additional construction costs, and we successfully identified an architect for filing the appropriate permits.
We solicited competitive bids from established design firms and wrote an expert opinion letter for the Co-op Board regarding the value of the proposed hallway space. Based on the improved design, the Board lowered its asking price by half on a per square foot basis.
The Result - The apartment combination was completed on time and within the financial requirements of the project. The client concluded that he saved well over $25,000 as a result of our involvement.
He was able to take advantage of a sound investment opportunity and reduce the overall completion time, thus saving on rent. The apartment was sold in less than three years at a profit of over $200,000 (100+%).
Case Study 2
Apartment Tune-up
The Situation - The owner of a high-end apartment needed several minor, but nagging repairs. She couldn't find qualified contractors for basic plumbing, carpentry, painting, and general maintenance. Several HVAC units had become inoperable and some expensive cabinetry had been damaged by a fire.
Lighting fixtures seemed to go through bulbs quickly. Stereo equipment did not work, and many other appliances were not operating as designed.
Actions Taken - Chamberlain Home Improvement Services assessed the fixtures and the problem areas in her home to determine the source of trouble. We secured a "preferred" painting contractor, a licensed plumber and an electrician to replace defective fixtures and make repairs to inoperable and malfunctioning outlets. We developed least-cost solutions for the remaining items, and identified and made other needed repairs.
The Result - All repairs were successfully completed in a timely manner with minimal interference to the owner's daily routine. She was able to communicate with us via email or phone at any time during the course of the repairs, she was very happy that she did not have to spend any of her normal work hours on the project during the course of the engagement.
We saw to it that the contractor was paid on schedule and that the client got the high level of service we had guaranteed. In the end, the client saved over $1,200 and over forty hours of time had she spent the time trying to find qualified service people on her own.
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