I am a lead carpenter who just moved to Brooklyn from Michigan--you can see houses I worked on at www.giraffedesignbuild.com. I live in the area (Ditmas Park) and would be happy to come by and give you an estimate. References available on request.
-Jeffree (646-496-7295)

Posted by: jeffreeclark at September 20, 2008 4:14 PM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

Welcome to the neighborhood! We are doing similar work with Weinstein Miller Associates - ask for Al.

Posted by: WTbound at September 20, 2008 8:43 PM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

I am willing to come by & provide you with an estimate for the above referenced work. Please contact me at (917) 573-3304 or at acrcontracting@optonline.net

Posted by: alrosariojr at September 20, 2008 8:49 PM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

Sorry but this isn't going to happen for 20k. If anyone tells you they can do it at that price be wary... Realtors are notorious for low-balling their estimates (obviously that's in their best interest).

Make sure you get like 5-6 estimates at least, and really talk to the contractors about some of the risks and worst case scenarios. By talking with several you will start to recognize which ones are trustworthy and which ones are just glossing over the potential problems you could face in your reno. You don't need to be an expert on construction but after discussing the same projcet with multiple parties you learn quickly who knows their business best.

Posted by: setancre at September 21, 2008 11:40 AM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

Thanks to all. Sobering news, but greatly appreciated. Guess we'll be scaling down our plans.

Posted by: nk at September 22, 2008 9:45 AM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

I think your estimate is way understated.. to give you a point of comparison.. we paid to much for floors in our recently purchased 3 floor single (about 7K total including some pretty minor repair work). My guess is we could have pulled it in at around 5 if we shopped around more.

You might also call Abassi Contracting, they do work in the area and when we got general quotes on a similar job his price was fair and they did work in our co-op so I know they are reliable.

GL

Posted by: Brooklyn11218 at September 22, 2008 2:05 PM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

Yep, I think 20K is not at all close to what this job may cost. Also, what you're describing will likely lead to other necessary improvements, such as you may find that the hardwood floors need total replacement, or that removing walls may create a structural issue. Don't set out on the renovation journey unless you're well-funded and emotionally ready.

Architect plans and permits from the Department of Buildings are required for any wall removal or moving of plumbing fixtures, major electrical work, etc. That said, some take a chance and do the work without approval. This can be dangerous as the department of buildings has the power to shut down all unauthorized construction, slap you with a fine, and force you to re-do or un-do all the work.

But then again, I would think most older houses in Brooklyn have some amount of unauthorized improvements, and some, including mine, had outrageous irregularities.

I can refer you to my contractor, Beer, 646-358-6118. He's honest and realistic in his estimates. He can also suggest the right way forward for you.

Another good idea is to get a good inspector to come look at the property. But inspectors aren't good at giving construction estimates.

Posted by: Sputnik13 at September 22, 2008 5:15 PM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??

Call this guy is very good contractor and very good prices I have seen him in couple jobs which i supplyed and installed plaster moldings for him #516-306-3959 his name is Angelo.

Posted by: plastervisions at September 22, 2008 11:09 PM in response to Constractor suggestions for a newbie??