build.bvmcontracting.com

Author: Ryan Meagher

  • Home Building Readiness Assessment

    Home Building Readiness Assessment

    Home Building Readiness Assessment

    Do you think you are ready to take on a new home-building project? Put your readiness to the test with our home building readiness assessment tool, which will allow you to determine which areas you need to work on before completing a home build.

    This assessment will take you less than 2 minutes to complete and there is no contact detail wall until after you receive your score. If you decide you would like to contact us to schedule a no-obligation, no-charge home building consultation to help improve your score we allow you to do so after you have received your score.

    Key Take-aways for assessing your readiness to build

    Home Building Costs: It is important to know how much your home building project is going to cost before wasting money on a design you cannot afford. BVM Contracting can help you get a realistic project budget in place using our database of historical home building projects. We even have a new home-building cost calculator for a quick estimate of how much your proposed home build is going to cost.

    Property-specific Zoning Information: If you are not allowed to build what you are hoping to build on your property there is no point in spending money on a design and permitting! It is important to know what is and isn’t possible on your property and BVM Contracting has the in-house team (and industry contacts) to advise you.

    Receiving Fee Proposal from Architect or Permit Designer: Before you go into the design process guns-a-blazing you should understand the total costs of your design and how much the permits will cost before committing to working with the designer. You should also know how much your proposed project may cost before going into the design phase, which any reputable home builder will be able to help with. BVM Contracting not only provides preliminary pricing BEFORE our clients enter into agreements with architects and permit designers, but we also work with your chosen design partner to ensure that the design fits with your budget.

    Home Building Project Financing: Often this is left till our clients have all of the above information (to avoid spinning tires and getting unnecessary credit checks), but very important. For bonus points (and to be in a better position for your discussions with home builders and design partners) you can look into your borrowing power BEFORE you start the process by using one of the many home financing/refinancing tools/calculators out there on the internet. It takes some work upfront but is worthwhile so you aren’t wasting too much time if you can’t yet afford the home build you want to complete.

    Updated Topographic Survey: Once you determine your preliminary home building costs, get your fee proposal from your design partner, get confirmation that you will be able to build what you want to build, and confirm that your financing is for the project you can then get an updated topographic survey of your property (which we can help you with by referring one of our surveyors).

    Conclusion

    It is important to understand how ready you are to build and our assessment tool will give you a great idea of where you stand. If you still need to fill in some gaps BVM Contracting is here to help you become 100 percent ready and feel confident about tackling your upcoming home building project.

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Partial-Scope Residential Construction in Toronto

    Partial-Scope Residential Construction in Toronto

    Partial Scope Home Building Services in Toronto

    Learn about BVM Contracting’s Flexible Residential Project Management Structure for New Home Construction and Home Addition Projects

    BVM Contracting is able to help all types of clients with their home building projects, whether is be a completely new home build, an addition or extension to your home, or any complex home renovation project that requires superior project management.

    Over the years of completing residential construction projects in Toronto, Scarborough, East York, The Beaches, and the areas surrounding, we have been able to work with many different types of clients, some of which took a lot of responsibility during the project.

    We are here today to tell you that you can substantially manage your own project with BVM Contracting, but will still need an educated home builder to help make sure that things run smoothly.

    Below we talk about some of the ways that we have been flexible with clients on their new home construction or top-up or extension home addition projects, and the things to consider when taking on large portions of the scope of work as a home owner.

    Option 1: Let BVM Contracting Build Your Home’s New Building Envelope, and You Can Finish the Interior

    BVM Contracting has completed this with multiple home owners over the past few years and is actually one of our strengths as a home builder in Toronto. We can get a building envelope completed in less than two months usually, depending on the size of the build.

    There are some important considerations in doing it this way versus having BVM manage the entire project:

    • You will spend a lot of time managing the remaining amount of the project, and usually the home owner has a family and a day job which will restrict the amount of time spent on getting the project done. This almost always extends the duration of the project but that is fine by some people as they usually trade their time in exchange for a less costly build.

    • Make sure that which ever sub-trades that you use have insurance and WSIB. You will want to protect yourself if anything goes awry so make sure that you are only dealing with reputable companies

    • It is likely that these sub-trades will not give you the best pricing since you as the home owner do not give them multiple projects to work on per year. If you are getting quotes make sure you get multiple to ensure that you aren’t getting completely ripped off.

    • Keep in mind that you will have to have a flexible schedule in order to attend the remaining City inspections of the build, and it is important to note that you are at the mercy of the inspectors schedule.

    • Make sure that you are carrying builder’s risk insurance on the build, just in case anything goes wrong with the project. Your existing home’s insurance won’t cover anything as you are building the new home, just keep that in mind!

    Option 2: Let BVM Manage the Project up Until the Drywall is Completed

    This method is another popular way to do things, since a lot of the technical issues in a home build happen before this phase, and everything after is mostly cosmetic. In our scope of work for this type of project management, we would make sure that all of the more technical aspects are dealt with by us, so all you will have to do is finish the house. The benefit of doing it this way is you will also have to attend no other inspections except the one for occupancy and the final inspection to close the permit. This means that way less of your time will be spent managing the project, and you will still save money on the project.

    Option 3: Managing the Sourcing/Supply of all Finishes (Recommended)

    We allow all of our clients to choose and buy finishes by themselves. We also allow them to use our contractor discounting in order to save as much money as possible on the client-managed portion of the build. This has been our most popular way of management, so much so that we have adopted it as our standard management procedure for every project.

    Conclusion

    If you are thinking about managing a large portion of your luxury home build, new home construction, or home addition project I am here to tell you that it is possible. Just make sure that you partner with the right home builder in Toronto and have enough time to properly manage the project.

    If you are interested in learning more about this offering, contact us at contact@bvmcontracting.com or 647-401-HOME.

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations and custom home builds (full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, new home construction, and laneway suites). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of building their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Finding a General Contractor Near Me

    Finding a General Contractor Near Me

    Finding a General Contractor Near Me in Toronto

    the value of hiring a Local General Contractor

    At BVM Contracting we understand that in the world of home renovations and home building the task of finding the right General Contractor for your project is tedious, time-consuming, and sometimes very complex. Due to the sometimes-overwhelming amount of money being spent on these projects, it is not surprising that it is a difficult process. To make sure you are on the right track in your General Contractor selection process, make sure that you are trying to target General Contractors local to your project, or at the very least do a lot of work in and around your neighbourhood. Let’s get into some of the reasons hiring a local General Contractor will benefit you and your project.

    Hiring Local Reason #1: Proximity equals efficiency

    For a moment, put yourself in a General Contractor or Home Builder’s shoes, would you rather be driving around a traffic-filled City for half of the day, or jumping from project site to project site with ease? This is an easily-answered question but sometimes people forget that there is a lot of efficiency in having project sites close to each other. It means that your General Contractor can schedule more meetings, organize their internal team better and have them do more work, and it also allows their team of subcontractors to get around to all of the job sites easier.

    Hiring Local Reason #2: More Skin in The Game

    If you ran a business and most of your work was in the area you live you would (whether it is subliminal or consciously) make sure that the service level you are providing is second-to-none. This is a psychological reason for hiring local, chances are your General Contractor knows many people in the neighbourhoods they are building in locally and also want to keep working in these neighbourhoods for years to come. The best way to keep working in these neighbourhoods to to build a great reputation, one worth referring! It is for this reason why you should for sure be on the lookout for the signs and trucks of builders that have completed multiple projects in your area. This is mainly how we have become one of the most sought-after home builders in Birchcliff, along with many other neighbourhoods in Scarborough and Toronto.

    Hiring Local Reason #3: Responsiveness

    You will find that when you start reaching out to General Contractors that the most responsive construction companies will be the ones that are relatively close to your project address. That is why when you are sending emails or filling out contact forms that you ALWAYS should populate the form with at least a postal code, and better yet the property address. This will allow the General Contractors you contact to evaluate if the project is in their service area or not and will lead to higher quality candidates to complete your work.

    Conclusion

    The General Contractors Near Me search is a good one to enter, it will allow you to investigate which Contractors are local to your project, and will more often than not lead to a higher quality pre-construction process, along with a better executed construction project. BVM Contracting’s service area is based in Eastern Toronto, but please reach out to us if you have any questions about a project in Toronto that we can help with. Even though we have a local service area, doesn’t mean that we cannot help you get on the right track for your project!

    Reach out to us with any additional questions or inquiries you have!

    If there are different questions you have than the ones listed above please reach out to us or leave a comment below! We would be happy to answer any of your questions to make sure you are hiring the right type of person for your residential renovation, home addition, or new home build project.

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Home Renovations in Toronto

    Home Renovations in Toronto

    Home Renovations in Toronto

    How to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck

    If you’re a homeowner, you know that renovations can be a costly but necessary expense. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, add a new bathroom, or expand your living space, the prospect of home renovations on a budget can seem daunting. But fear not, there are plenty of ways to get the most bang for your buck. With some careful planning and creative thinking, you can transform your home without breaking the bank. From DIY projects and budget-friendly materials to smart design choices and innovative financing options, there are many ways to make your home renovation dreams a reality.

    In this article, we’ll explore some practical tips and tricks for home renovations on a budget, so you can enjoy your newly renovated space without the stress of overspending.

    Assessing your home renovation needs

    Before you start your home renovation project, it’s important to assess your needs. What areas of your home require renovation? Do you need to update your kitchen, bathroom, or living space? Do you need more storage space or want to create an open-concept floor plan? By identifying your home renovation needs, you can create a plan that addresses your priorities and stays within your budget.

    Once you have a list of your renovation needs, it’s time to consider the scope of the project. Are you looking for a complete renovation or a few minor upgrades? A complete renovation can be expensive, but it can also increase the value of your home. Minor upgrades, on the other hand, can be a cost-effective way to freshen up your space without breaking the bank. Consider your budget and priorities when deciding on the scope of your renovation project.

    Finally, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of your renovation project. Will your renovation increase the value of your home? Will it make your home more functional and enjoyable to live in? By considering the long-term benefits, you can make informed decisions about your renovation project that align with your budget and priorities. Any knowledgeable General Contractor will be able to help you work through this process so the sooner you get them involved the better informed you will be.

    Setting a budget for your home renovation project

    Once you have assessed your home renovation needs, it’s time to set a budget. Setting a budget is an important step in any home renovation project, as it helps to ensure that you don’t overspend. Start by determining how much money you can realistically afford to spend on your renovation project. Consider your income, expenses, and any existing debts.

    Next, create a list of all the materials and services you will need for your renovation project. This list should include everything from paint and fixtures to professional services like electrical and plumbing work. Research the cost of each item on your list to get an idea of how much your renovation project will cost or reach out to a General Contractor to get a rough budget for the renovation.

    Finally, it is always a good idea to add a contingency fund to your budget, especially in older homes. A contingency fund is a buffer that you set aside for unexpected expenses that may arise during your renovation project. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10-20% of your total renovation budget for contingencies.

    Prioritizing your home renovation goals

    With your budget in hand, it’s time to prioritize your home renovation goals. What are the most important aspects of your renovation project? Do you need to focus on functionality, aesthetics, or both? By prioritizing your goals, you can make informed decisions about where to allocate your renovation budget.

    Consider your renovation needs and budget when prioritizing your goals. If you have a limited budget, you may need to focus on minor upgrades that have a big impact, like new paint and lighting fixtures. If you have a larger budget, you may be able to focus on more significant upgrades, like a full interior renovation, basement renovation, or kitchen renovation.

    DIY vs. professional renovation services

    One way to save money on your renovation project is to do some of the work yourself. DIY projects can be a cost-effective way to add value to your home, but they require time, effort, and skill. Before starting a DIY project, consider your level of experience and the complexity of the project. Some projects, like painting and installing new fixtures, are relatively easy and can be done by most homeowners. Other projects, like electrical and plumbing work, require specialized knowledge and should be left to professionals. BVM Contracting has a DIY Consultation program that aims to help homeowners who want to complete DIY renovations to make sure they are starting off on the right track

    Professional renovation services can be expensive, but they can also save you time and ensure that your renovation project is done correctly. When choosing a professional renovation service, it’s important to do your research. Look for reputable contractors with good reviews and a track record of quality work. Get multiple quotes from different contractors to ensure that you are getting a fair and accurate budget. The goal is not to look for the lowest cost but to find a General Contractor that can give you the most value.

    Cost-effective home renovation ideas – paint, lighting, and fixtures

    There are many cost-effective ways to renovate your home without breaking the bank. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to freshen up your space is with a new coat of paint. Paint can transform a room and give it a new look and feel. When choosing paint colors, consider your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home.

    Another cost-effective way to update your home is with new lighting fixtures. Lighting can have a big impact on the look and feel of a room, and there are many affordable options available. Look for fixtures that match your personal style and are appropriate for the function of the room.

    Finally, upgrading your fixtures can be a cost-effective way to add value to your home. Upgrading your faucets, doorknobs, and cabinet hardware can give your home a fresh look without breaking the bank. Look for fixtures that are both functional and stylish, and that match the overall aesthetic of your home.

    Repurposing and upcycling furniture and decor

    Another way to save money on your home renovation project is to repurpose and upcycle furniture and decor. Repurposing and upcycling involve taking old or unused items and turning them into something new and useful. This can be a cost-effective way to add unique and personalized touches to your home.

    Look for old furniture and decor items that can be repurposed or upcycled. For example, an old dresser can be painted and turned into a bathroom vanity. Old windows can be turned into picture frames. The possibilities are endless, and the results can be both beautiful and functional.

    Sustainable and eco-friendly renovation options

    If you are interested in sustainable and eco-friendly renovation options, there are many choices available. Sustainable and eco-friendly materials and products are becoming more readily available, and many are affordable and easy to incorporate into your renovation project.

    Look for materials that are made from renewable resources, such as bamboo and cork. Consider using low-VOC paints and finishes, which are healthier for you and the environment. Install energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and consider adding insulation to your home to reduce energy costs.

    Financing options for home renovations

    If you don’t have the cash on hand to finance your home renovation project, there are many financing options available. Home equity loans and lines of credit are popular options, as they allow you to borrow against the equity in your home. Personal loans and credit cards are also options, but they typically come with higher interest rates.

    Before choosing a financing option, it’s important to do your research and compare rates and terms. Consider your budget and how much you can realistically afford to borrow. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of any loan or credit agreement.

    Conclusion: Achieving your dream home on a budget

    Home renovations on a budget may seem like a challenge, but with some careful planning and creative thinking, you can achieve your dream home without overspending. Assess your renovation needs, set a budget, and prioritize your goals. Consider DIY projects and cost-effective materials and services. Repurpose and upcycle furniture and decor, and choose sustainable and eco-friendly options. Finally, if you need to finance your renovation project, explore your options and choose the best one for your budget and needs. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy your newly renovated space without the stress of overspending.

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations and custom home builds (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, residential mortgage solutions, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Waterfront Renovation Project in Prince Edward County

    Waterfront Renovation Project in Prince Edward County

    Waterfront Accommodation in Prince Edward County

    Learn more about the renovations completed at what is now Fancie’s PEC, a boutique accommodation provider that retrofitted a dated waterfront property into a unique accommodation in Prince Edward County, renovations completed by one of our own!

    About Fancie’s Prince Edward County (PEC)

    Fancie’s PEC was bought in 2021 and underwent extensive interior renovations to convert the rooms within into 4 separate guest suites. Fancie’s PEC has become a licensed STA provider in Prince Edward County and is legally able to provide accommodations in the region. The renovation process took ~ 2 years to complete as there was approximately 7000 square feet of area that needed to be reconstructed in various capacities to update the space and turn it into the eclectic accommodation that it is today. Renovations and property upgrades are still underway but the accommodation is now accepting bookings for the 2023 season for all 4 suites.

    Each suite has its own unique theme and different group sizes can be accommodated within. Fancie’s PEC also offers whole-home bookings to parties interested in booking the 7 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom home. The home is occupied by the owner’s to ensure that every stay is amazing and the guests are taken care of. They are also planning on offering custom packages for guests later in 2023 and are planning to be open all-year round.

    Amenities at Fancie’s PEC

    The Fancie’s PEC website has a more exhaustive list of amenities provided, but the ones that are absolutely spectacular are below. You essentially get a hotel-style experience in the comfort of a home with a waterfront overlooking the Bay of Quinte.

    • Waterfront view with sunsets during the Summer months and shoulder seasons

    • Boat launch for fishermen and boaters

    • Dock

    • Natural Stone Patio with firepit

    • Free Parking on site

    • 3 of the 4 suites have waterfront views that you can watch the sun set and see all of the nature on the Bay of Quinte (swans, ducks, geese, heron, osprey, etc.)

    • Each suite has its own individual thermostat to control the temperature in the Winter and Summer months

    • Complimentary linens, towels, sheets, pillows, bedding, make-up wipes, shampoo, conditioner, and body soap

    • Mini fridge in each suite with coffee station

    What to do while staying at Fancie’s PEC

    There are many activities and outings you can be part of while staying at Fancie’s. Being that Prince Edward County is known for its wineries, that is the top-of-mind outing that many of our guests put on their list, but some of the other options are below:

    • The Bay of Quinte is well-renowned for its amazing fishing, specifically Walleye fishing. Fancie’s PEC is well-situated for any fisherman who wants to be able to wake up, walk out the door, launch their boat on our property, and start fishing! And in the winter time if the Bay of Quinte freezes over properly you can enjoy ice fishing about 200 meters away from our property. Point in is one of the better known ice fishing areas in the Quinte area and we are fortunate to be located right beside it!

    • The Quinte region and Prince Edward County have some great golfing, including Trillium Wood GC, Black Bear Ridge GC, Timber Ridge GC, and Picton GCC. Fancie’s has partnerships with Trillium Wood and Timber Ridge so if you are interested in golfing those two golf courses they can help get you set-up!

    • Exploring the wide variety of artists that call PEC their home. There are many different types of artists and galleries that you can visit if you are interest in the fine arts. There is even an arts trail that you can find online to check out where they are located so you can plan your trip!

    • Brewery tours in Prince Edward County. There is a surprising amount of breweries that call PEC their home, and each of them have their own great vibe and offering. names like Parsons Brewing, Prince Eddy’s, and Slake Brewing are just some of the many that are sprinkled all across Prince Edward County.

    • Sandbanks Provincial Park is a very popular local attraction in Prince Edward County that is located on the South side (Lake Ontario side). You can enjoy the vast amount of sandy beaches, dog friendly areas, and there is also sand dunes that you can hike as well! It is best to plan your trip in advance on the weekends so you can make sure you can get parking (which you have to pay for). A definite must-see attraction!

    • Thrifting and local shopping is another popular way to pass the time in the County. There are many thrift stores that have unique items and many local shops in the big three towns (Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington) that you can wind through at your leisure/whim.

    • There are some amazing and unique restaurants in Prince Edward County that you will want to make sure is part of your itinerary. Names like Bocado, The Royal Hotel, Bermuda, Darlings, Creekside Cafe, La Condesa, Koenji Whiskey Bar are just some of the many names that you can take a look at, and if you are having trouble picking a spot the staff at Fancie’s will be able to help!

    Before and After Renovations at Fancie’s PEC

    90 percent of the work completed at Fancie’s PEC was completed by Ryan Meagher (our Business Development Manager and Lead Estimator), his Wife Kerry, and Kerry’s parents, all of whom are involved in the day-to-day operations at Fancie’s. All of the quirky, interesting, and eclectic design details were formulated by Kerry and her Mother, and many of the items that are in the home today have been thrifted, upcycled, or repurposed.

    Take a look at some of the before and afters below to see how large of a transformation was made to the home, and will give you a great idea of what to expect if you are interested in staying at Fancie’s for your next trip to Prince Edward County!

    More Photos of the property at Fancie’s PEC

    Take a look at some of the other areas of the property at Fancie’s PEC and head on over to their website to check out their listings and to book your next stay in Prince Edward County! We are very proud of what they have created and hope people are able to enjoy the property as much as we do.

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations and custom home builds (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, residential mortgage solutions, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Why Contacting a General Contractor First Is Important

    Why Contacting a General Contractor First Is Important

    Talking to a General Contractor First Will Save You Time and Money

    Many times a year we get home owners, real estate investors, and property owners reach out to us with proposed designs for their home renovation or home building projects in Toronto. Sometimes they even have the permit drawings in hand and are reaching out to a General Contractor for the first time. This is the exact opposite way you should be going through the process of completing residential construction.

    Why should I reach out to a general Contractor First?

    The reason is simple, why would you go through the design process without consulting the people who will inevitably be in charge of handling the outcome and costs of the work? A business owner wouldn’t make changes to their bookkeeping or business structure without consulting their accountant, and the same theory should apply with General Contractors.

    Why don’t more people reach out to general Contractors first in their pre-construction process?

    We think the reason why people do not consult General Contractors first is a three-fold problem:

    1. General Contractors are historically not easy people to get information from if you are not committed to them in some way

    2. It takes additional up-front effort to reach out to General Contractors before knowing if you are committed to moving forward into the design process

    3. Designers and Architects are not incentivized to get clients to check with General Contractors about what the estimated costs might be for their proposed project, because it means that they may lose business because the client cannot afford the work.

    How reaching out to BVM Contracting First Will save you time and money

    BVM Contracting is changing the way people look at the pre-construction process in residential construction and make it very easy to reach out to us to better evaluate your project.

    Since we have a dedicated sales and estimating team we make it very easy to get right the information you need in order to make the best decision about committing to a renovation or home building project. We do all of this work without asking for anything in return, we see our help and insight as a trust-building exercise that will allow people to naturally gravitate towards using our services once they can afford to complete their proposed work.

    Not only will you get transparent advice and honest project costing feedback, but some of the other benefits of reaching out to us first is:

    • We can evaluate your existing property to make sure that your proposed project is making the best use of your property/home. Sometimes people think they need a home addition when what they really need is a basement renovation, and we can listen to your needs and ask the right questions to make sure you are spending your money wisely.

    • We have a trusted network of planning consultants, designers, architects, vendors, engineers, and HVAC designers that we can refer you to and make sure you are surrounded by people that are in the business for the right reasons and will offer transparent and honest advice.

    • We can give you some upfront insight into what the potential roadblocks will be for your project, give you information into the process of obtaining a building permit, and what to expect during the pre-construction process for your particular project.

    What is the biggest benefit of approaching a General Contractor first?

    The largest benefit by far (and what people reach out to us the most about) is to understand what the costs will be for a certain type of project they want to complete. We allow people to stay in control during the pre-construction process by giving them the costs as early on in the process as possible so they know what they are getting into before committing to the design and permitting work for the project.

    With the help of existing floor plans, home inspection reports, a discovery phone call, some detailed questions about the existing property, and a bunch of data gathered from pricing out all kinds of renovation and home building projects in Toronto we can very accurately estimate the construction costs for your project. This allows for you to make the ultimate decision of moving forward with the project design, or holding off until you can afford to complete the work. In either scenario it is a win for us because we are building trust and a network of potential projects for years to come.

    Being an honest General Contractor is a slow burn but it is worth it when you get the same people coming back to you once they can afford to renovate or build and want to get your advice about what their next best step is.

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Multi-unit or Multi-family Renovation Services

    Multi-unit or Multi-family Renovation Services

    Multi-unit Residential Building (MURB) Renovation Services

    Get the best value and return for every dollar spent on your multi-unit apartment investment property in Toronto

    BVM Contracting specializes in substantial renovations, and over the years have been able to work on many multi-unit residential building (MURB) renovation and remodeling projects. We found that MURB’s in Toronto were underserviced and did not have many options for working with General Contractors that were big enough to get the job done and small enough to care about each and every project being completed.

    BVM Contracting has worked with many real estate investors in the Greater Toronto Area to renovate, remodel, and reconfigure their multi-unit residential investment properties and have developed a fantastic offering to allow investors to maximize their investment dollar, maximize the income per rental property, and keep reaping the rewards of owning multi-unit investment properties for the long term.

    In this blog we are going to cover the following subjects:

    1. Why should I renovate my multi-unit apartment building in toronto?

    2. What are the ways of Maximizing my investment in a multi-unit apartment building?

    3. What is the cost of renovating my multi-unit apartment building?

    Other related topics

    There are many reasons why a real estate investor or real estate investment group will elect to renovate their multi-unit apartment investment(s). The three major reasons are:

    • To proactively repair any issues that are known within the apartment building or to update individual units that are old or dated. This would be due to old infrastructure needing repair or old fixtures needing to be updated. This work is usually completed during turnovers in each individual unit and allows the investor to not lose out on to much rental income.

    • To adjust the layouts of the existing apartment units to maximize the investment dollar per unit (i.e. maximize density)

    • To stay competitive with other comparable rental properties in the area to attract better tenants. This would also help increase the value of the property if future resale is in question!

    We find that, more often than not, these are the most popular and recommended reasons to renovate. If you fit into either of these categories keep reading!

    1. Turn Larger units into multiple single bedroom or bachelor Units

      This is a very popular approach that a lot of landlords elect to invest in to maximize the investment dollar per unit. Since the per square foot value of a bachelor/single unit is usually more than a 2+ bedroom this allows the investor to get a quicker return on their investment dollar

    2. Keep the sizes the same and remodel the existing units to increase the rental income per unit

      Depending on the part of the City you are renovating, it sometimes makes more sense to remodel existing units to increase the value that way. It also keeps the costs lower than building new units within the same footprint, which requires a fair amount of fire separation and permitting work.

    3. Exterior renovations to PIQUE A tenant’s interest in the building

      Sometimes all you need is a fresh coat of paint on the interior and exterior to increase the value of your building. There are many ways that you can update your exterior to interest people in your building, and we can help you build out a budget for the renovation work needed.

    4. RENOVATE BY FLOOR (or as needed)

    Many times cash flow is tight with multi-unit property investments, and we get that. This is why completing the renovations as there is turnover may be the best way to successfully increase the value of your property over time. You can also elect to renovate the apartment floor-by-floor if funds allow for it.

    BVM Contracting has developed a trusty team that can help you determine the cost of renovating your multi-unit apartment building before you invest way too much money into the renovations. We make sure that you understand what you are getting into by providing no-charge consultations and budgeting for your proposed renovation project. We are able to provide a detailed scope and budget estimate for your project so you can make the right decision for your multi-unit residential building (MURB) investment portfolio!

    Contact us below to learn more about how we can help you maximize your return and overall value of your multi-unit apartment property in Toronto!

    Book a multi-unit Apartment Renovation Consultation

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations and custom home builds (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • How to Complete a Garden Suite in Toronto

    How to Complete a Garden Suite in Toronto

    A Guide to Building a Garden Suite in Toronto

    BVM Contracting is a residential construction company that specializes in substantial renovation and new home building in Toronto. We have seen first-hand the positive impact that the laneway suites program has given The City of Toronto and are excited that they are exploring the idea of allowing garden suites on properties as well!

    In this article we dive into the anatomy of a garden suite and determine if your property has the chance to qualify.

    1. What is A GARDEN SUITE

    2. Does my property or lot qualify for a garden suite

    3. Scarborough is in a unique position to capitalize on the construction of garden suites

      4. Contact BVM Contracting to get your garden suite planning started

      5. What is the Process of Planning and Building a Garden Suite

      6. For Home Owners: Take advantage of your PROPERTY’S BACKYARD

    You can think of a garden suite in many ways. In reference to a laneway suite, it is a detached building on your property that does not have to be adjacent to a public laneway. This means that there is the potential for even more properties in Toronto to be eligible for creating garden suites on their property.

    The City of Toronto has come out with the criteria for Garden Suites so that home owners can evaluate if their property of interest is eligible for the program. Click through to learn more about the requirements of Garden Suites in Toronto.

    Due to the nature of properties in Scarborough being larger than the average property in many of the other areas of Toronto, this presents a great opportunity for home owners in Scarborough to take advantage of building an ancillary suite on their property.

    Neighbourhoods like Cliffcrest, Birch Cliff, Cliffside, Guildwood, Scarborough Junction, Oakridge are some areas of Scarborough that are well-suited for this program, but if you want to inquire about garden suite potential in another neighbourhood in Scarborough please reach out below!

    There are also areas of East York that would be well-suited for garden suites, but due to the smaller nature of properties the potential will have to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Reach out below to get the process started!

    Other helpful information about garden suites and ADU’s

    BVM Contracting will have to wait on the City of Toronto to come out with the details of the requirements for these garden suites, but it is never too early to start planning! If you would like us to review your property please reach out below and have a survey of your property ready! We will be in touch with you to get the process started.

    BVM Contracting is an expert in all types of residential infill construction projects (including new homes and laneway suites) and can guide you through your journey of completing a garden suite (because it is very similar to the aforementioned types of projects). Below is a high level overview of how to complete a garden suite so that you can understand the requirements and potential costs. Once further details are disclosed by the City this process will be updated:

    1. Partner with a Home Builder or Property Developer that can help you evaluate a property of interest, whether that be your primary residence or an investment property.

    2. Determine if a property of interest is able to support a garden suite. BVM Contracting is able to guide you properly for this step, which will involve working with one of our designers. It is important to note that if you infringe on certain zoning by-laws it may still be possible to build a suite by going to Committee of Adjustment.

    3. Get a fee proposal for the design and disbursements (permits, development costs, etc.). It remains to be seen if they will waive the development charges for Garden Suites (like they did for Laneway suites) but we will work through this when the time comes

    4. Once you have a fee proposal and have the property of interest that you want to build on, you can start the process of getting the design started, and also getting some solid numbers together for the construction budget. BVM Contracting is able to create very accurate budgets based on square footage, exterior/interior finishes, and other high level information to create a budget for the project. Once the preliminary design is created for your garden suite we would be able to solidify pricing from beginning to end.

    5. Once you have the soft (design/development fees) and hard (construction) costs for the build, this is the time to reach out to a financing firm, investors, and mortgage specialist to fund the project. Fortunately, we have an in-house team who can help you with this!

    6. Once you have the financing in place and the permits/development proposal is approved by the City of Toronto you can now build the new homes!

    With our design-build approach and network of financing options we can help any home owner build a garden suite if their property qualifies. If you have equity built up in your home that will make the process even more smooth. We are looking forward to helping home owners with their existing properties make more income by adding a secondary (or even third) suite by building a garden suite.

    If you are interested in building a garden suite and need a place to start, look no further than contacting BVM Contracting!

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Must Have Energy Saving Upgrades When Building

    Must Have Energy Saving Upgrades When Building

    The 5 Best Energy Efficiency Upgrades You Can Make When Building A New Home

    From a home builder’s perspective (both with Home Additions and New Home Construction), there are certain energy efficiency upgrades that make sense AND don’t cost an arm, a leg, and your first-born. You CAN have an energy efficient home without spending way more than a home that is conventionally built (don’t let your design or architect tell you any differently). If you want advice that is completely lead by cost and value you’ve come to the right place, we have put together a list of new home building upgrades that you should include in your home to make it more energy efficient!

    ***Note that BVM Contracting is based in Toronto, Ontario. Some of these recommendations may not be applicable to other areas of Canada or the United States. Always consult a local building professional before incorporating any design ideas into your new home building project.***

    Energy Efficiency Upgrades to consider during a New Home Build

    Upgrade Idea #1: Prevent solar gain by Incorporating extra large soffits

    Due to the tilt of the Earth that happens between Summer and Winter in Canada, the angle at which the sun shines down onto the earth changes. To take advantage of this scientific fact, a commonly used tactic to prevent sunlight from penetrating into the home through windows and doors (and thus causing solar gain) it to make the soffit’s of your home extra large. How large exactly? That depends on where you are in the world (i.e. how close or far to the equator) and also depends on your seasonal temperatures.

    The goal of doing this is to prevent the sun from entering your home during the dog days of Summer, and allow as much of it to rush in when it is cold and chilly. If you are building your home new this is an easy and affordable way to get protection from the sun, as long as your truss and roof design incorporates it, you will really only need to pay the little bit extra to finish the soffit in aluminum or whatever material you prefer.

    Example of how
    Example of how

    Upgrade Idea #2: Installation of a Cold Climate Heat Pump

    If you have not heard of cold climate heat pumps and you are in the process of finalizing your new home building HVAC system, today is your lucky day. In many areas of southern Ontario (including Toronto) we have been seeing a rise in the installation of Cold-Climate Heat Pumps (CCHP’s) which, in short, allow you to heat and cool your house by use of electricity and refrigerant. Recent advances have allowed certain heat pumps to heat down to double-digit negative degrees Celsius, which has allows more Canadian regions to make use of the system. Tack on a emergency back-up heating element and you have a completely resilient HVAC system that runs completely off electricity.

    The basic operation of a heat pump is explained below, but the basic principle is that it reverses the direction that the refrigerant flows between the cooling season and warming season, which allows the system to expel heat to the outdoors during the summer (like an air conditioner) and pull heat into the house during the winter (to replace the use of a furnace).

    Basic principle of Heat Pump Operation between the heating and cooling months.
    Basic principle of Heat Pump Operation between the heating and cooling months.

    The greatest thing about CCHP’s? They do not cost much more than a standard (furnace/AC set-up that you usually see in homes! For the extra bit of money you spend you can make up in a very efficient system that usually results in lower overall utility bills. As long as your electricity costs are relatively stable and inexpensive compared to natural gas/propane, the added efficiency of a heat pump may allow you to save. Especially with the increased gas costs, this upgrade makes a lot of sense for new home builds and substantial home additions/renovation projects.

    Upgrade idea #3: Sprayfoam insulation and/or exterior rigid insulation for continuous thermal bridge

    Depending on local building code requirements, you may already need to complete over-cladding with rigid insulation to create a “thermal break” for your building envelope. It is recommended because it provides your exterior with a better overall insulation value and will lead to an overall more comfortable home.

    Example of rigid insulation for overcladding at one of our home addition projects in Toronto
    Example of rigid insulation for overcladding at one of our home addition projects in Toronto

    If your local building codes do not require rigid insulation overcladding, we would still recommended to insulate your exterior stud cavities with sprayfoam insulation. Sprayfoam provides good R value and also provides an air-tight seal around the building envelope to make your home feel comfortable and have less drafts. combine both the overcladding and the sprayfoam and you have a very comfortable and energy efficient home!

    Upgrade Idea #4: Resiliency Measure – Install a Gas Fireplace

    This is less of an energy efficiency idea and more of a way to ensure that your home is more resilient with it’s energy. If you are building a new home we always recommend installing a gas fireplace with a BTU/hr output that would allow it to act as a back-up heating source in case of a power outage. No matter what HVAC system you install (furnace, heat pump, hydronic, etc.) none of them are going to work if the power goes off. The nice thing about a gas fireplace is that, as long as it has a pilot light, you will be able to flip the switch and get it to run with your natural gas or propane hook-up.

    Again, less of an energy efficient upgrade, but definitely an efficient way to utilize energy when you need it most!

    Upgrade idea #5: Installation of Triple Pane (or Low-E) Windows

    If the home your are building has lots of windows, unobstructed views of our Solar System’s Star (i.e. the Sun), and you reside in a cold climate then it might make sense to upgrade your windows to be more energy efficient.

    What homeowners do not realize is that most of the heat that is gained or lost in a home comes through windows and doors, so to reduce the amount of heat gained or lost you can invest in high quality windows that will reduce solar gain and have a better insulation rating. Low-e windows do just that and will save you some money in the long run. You are already buying windows for your home build, you might as well buy the most energy efficient ones you can afford!

    Conclusion

    Although there are many ways you can incorporate energy efficiency into a home, the best advice we can give you is to get a knowledgeable and local home builder in your area involved as soon as you can. They will help give you timely feedback during the design phase to help you hone in on which upgrades are worth it and which ones aren’t. The pre-construction phase is so important but is often an under-utilized time for home owners to get feedback about their design from a building cost perspective.

    If you are looking to complete a home build or home addition in Toronto and the surrounding area, we may be able to help you through the pre-construction process to make sure you are spending your money wisely and getting the best value possible! Reach out to us today to start the conversation!

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.

  • Must Have Upgrades for Your Home Addition

    Must Have Home Addition Upgrades

    When people think about home additions they usually do not think of it as a “custom home build”. Well I am here to tell you that it is entirely possible to create a one-of-a-kind home by completing a home addition versus a new home build. Yes there are a few more constraints to deal with, but if you have the right design and permit submission team and General Contractor anything is possible!

    If you don’t believe us, check out some of our featured home addition projects, some of the outcomes may surprise you (especially Fishleigh, Broadleaf, and Cosburn).

    In this article we dive into the upgrades you will want to make (or consider making) during your home addition project to turn your home addition into a custom home. If you have any questions or comments you can contact us via our online contact form, which also has our email and phone number for direct contact.

    Upgrades to consider during a Home Addition

    Upgrade Idea #1: Increasing main floor ceiling height

    A very common upgrade for home addition projects in Toronto is to increase the ceiling height of your main floor while your roof has been removed. Note that this only works for top-up additions where the entire roof has been removed, and your exterior walls will need to be removed to confirm if they can support the additional blockwork required to properly increase the ceiling height.

    If you are unsure if your exterior walls are load-bearing, reach out to us to schedule a consultation.

    Upgrade Idea #2: In-floor heating

    In-floor heating is another popular add-on for home addition projects, and the application of such varies. There are many different areas where you can consider in-floor heating:

    • Bathrooms

    • Foyers

    • Basically any tiled floor

    • Basement flooring

    • Above-grade in-floor heating

    Depending on the total square footage and location of the in-floor heating you have a few options on type of in-floor heating. For smaller square footages like bathrooms it is recommended to go with an electric in-floor heating option, and for larger square footages (like basement in-floor heating) a hydronic heating solution is your best bet.

    Upgrade idea #3: Ev-charging Station

    With the rise of electric vehicles throughout Canada it has become a great idea to upgrade your home to accommodate your future needs as a commuter. Installing or roughing in for an EV charging system is a very easy process that can be completed during the electrical phase of a home addition project. This upgrade will allow you to have a dedicated charging area for your current or future EV vehicle, and will also future-proof your home from a resale perspective.

    The location of an EV charging station is recommended to be in the area of your property where you park your vehicle, so if you have a driveway or garage those would be the most ideal locations.

    Upgrade Idea #4: Garage

    There are many ways to introduce indoor parking into your existing home. Some designs incorporate a garage within the existing footprint, while other designs call for an extension to the existing home in order to accommodate a garage. Depending on the size of your property, local setback rules, and location of your driveway you may have an easier or more difficult time, so we suggest reaching out to a designer or architect to confirm what is possible for your property.

    Upgrade idea #5: Generator rough-in and/or Installation

    Gas Generator

    Installing a generator is quite an expensive venture from beginning to end (around 10-20 K), so rough-in only is a more popular approach. In order to have the ability to install one in the future you will need to consider a few items during your home addition:

    • Future location of the generator. Note that the generator will need to be located away from any windows, doors, or fresh air intakes into the home. This will dictate where the next two items will be placed.

    • Gas rough-in. You will want to get a gas line run to the area where the generator will be installed (or the closest area on the outside of your home that you can place the gas line)

    • Electrical rough-in + transfer switch. An electrician will be responsible for connecting the generator to an automatic transfer switch, which senses when the grid power goes out. It is recommended always to install a whole-home transfer switch that matches the amperage requirements of your existing panel. For example, if you have a 200 amp panel you should install a 200 amp transfer switch. The transfer switch should ideally be placed as close to the meter base as possible, which will lower the amount of wiring work for the electrician.

    Battery Back-up Storage Systems

    Another option for back-up power is a battery back-up storage solution. The industry is still in it’s infancy and there are less options in Canada but if you reach out to any solar provider they may be able to offer a battery storage system as part of your solar panel installation. These systems work with or without solar panels, and would be able to provide back-up power to your home in the event of a power outage. One of the best-marketed battery storage solutions is the Tesla Powerwall, but there are other options if you look into it online.

    Upgrade Idea #6: Basement walk-out

    If you are looking for additional functionality and accessibility in your basement, a walk-out is a great option. Whether it is to provide better entertaining opportunities for yourself and your family or to allow for a legal basement apartment, it may be a worthwhile upgrade for your property while you are extending to or adding to your existing footprint. The best type of home addition to consider a walk-out with is an extension project. Since the blockwork or concrete forming work for the new foundation is already being completed for the extension it will cost a minimal amount to add in the foundation and finishing work for a basement walk-out (compared to adding one to an existing home’s foundation).

    Example of a basement walk-out at one of our home addition projects in East York, Toronto
    Example of a basement walk-out at one of our home addition projects in East York, Toronto

    Upgrade Idea #7: Custom window finishes

    If you are planning on upgrading all of your windows during your home addition (which is a common choice from our clients) it would be a good idea to understand what all of the finishing options are for the windows. You can pick a bunch of different colour options and can create different window styles by the use of various grill patterns. Our window manufacturer is able to customize your windows to be a truly unique look in your neighbourhood.

    An example of a custom window ordered through BVM Contracting’s Window Supplier at one of our East York Home Addition Projects
    An example of a custom window ordered through BVM Contracting’s Window Supplier at one of our East York Home Addition Projects

    Upgrade Idea #8: Specialty plumbing fixtures

    Specialty plumbing fixtures are common upgrades for custom homes and new home building projects, but that does not mean that they cannot be included in your home addition project. Our top recommendations for plumbing upgrades (from what our clients have done) includes:

    • Pot fillers for kitchens

    • Ice and water maker for Fridge

    • Bidet for bathroom

    • Stand-alone tub for master ensuite

    • Hot water recirculation system (see article below)

    • Wall-mounted faucets for bathrooms and kitchens

    • Hydronic in-floor heating (as described above)

    Upgrade Idea #9: Dual zone HVAC system

    It is surprisingly easy to set-up a dual-zone HVAC system for your home, as long as you are replacing your ductwork during your home addition project. This allows you to set the temperature for your second floor differently from your main floor, which comes in handy during the cold winters and hot summers that we experience in Toronto. If you are interested in learning more about how to set-up a system like this for your home addition project please reach out!

    Upgrade Idea #10: Solar Panels

    Last but not least is the installation (or rough-in) for solar panels. If you are planning on offsetting your energy usage with solar then planning for it during the home addition planning process is critical. Make sure that you reach out to a solar installer as soon as you know you are planning a home addition to make sure you can properly plan the installation after the home addition is built.

    If you are only looking to rough-in for solar you will want to make sure that you work with a solar installer to run the correct wiring to the final location of the solar panels. There is always an option to run everything AFTER the home addition is complete, but there will need to be wiring and conduit on the exterior of your home which may interfere with the overall look of the exterior.

    Conclusion

    The bottom-line is that you can complete a lot of upgrades to a home addition to make it look and feel like a new home, as long as you are working with the right team. We will be able to help you create a budget that accounts for all of these upgrades and allow you to make a decision on which ones you would like to incorporate into your addition project. Reach out to us today to start the conversation about building your dream home!

    About BVM COntracting

    BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.

    Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.

    To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.