Ah, Yelp. The digital age’s version of a high school cafeteria where everyone has an opinion, and the popular kids (read: the businesses that pay up) get all the attention. If you’re a business owner, you know the struggle all too well. It’s like trying to navigate a minefield while blindfolded—one wrong step, and you could be blown to smithereens by a single star review.
Let me take you on a little journey through my recent experience with Yelp after taking over a showroom called Cabinets Unlimited. Now, before we dive in, let’s just say the previous owners decided to retire, and I inherited a treasure trove of reviews—all of which were written about the old business owner, Victoria. And while Victoria is a gem, her reviews are about as relevant to my business as a flip phone in 2023.
So, here’s where the fun begins. I log into my Yelp account, ready to bask in the glory of my new business venture, only to find that Yelp has decided to play hide-and-seek with my reviews. And 14 more of Victoria’s five-star reviews? Poof! Gone! Instead, Yelp has chosen to highlight her one-star reviews like they’re the crown jewels of my business. Thanks, Yelp! Nothing says “welcome to your new business” like a 3.8-star rating that’s mostly made up of complaints about a business I didn’t even run!
So, naturally, I reached out to Yelp, thinking they’d be thrilled to help a new business owner out. Instead, they offered me a delightful little package of services to “boost” my reviews. I mean, really? I just inherited a bunch of reviews that don’t even apply to me, and you want me to pay you to fix it? I politely told them to take a hike. I’m not about to pay for the privilege of having my reviews seen when the reviews in question are about someone else’s business! Just remove them, Yelp! Let my reviews show our company’s true colors.
Fast forward to today, a year later, and I’m on the phone with Yelp again, sending in more paperwork than I did for my college applications. I’m praying that this time, they’ll finally wipe the old reviews from my account and let me start fresh. Because let’s be honest, if I wanted to deal with drama, I’d just binge-watch reality TV.
So, fellow business owners, if you’re feeling the Yelp blues, know that you’re not alone. We’re all in this together, navigating the wild world of online reviews, trying to make sense of a system that sometimes feels like it’s rigged against us. Just remember, when life gives you someone else’s one-star reviews, make lemonade—or at least a really good blog post about it!
And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll all look back on these Yelp struggles and laugh. Until then, let’s keep fighting the good fight, one review at a time!
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How long do you plan on staying in the home?
This question is crucial to deciding the quality and cost of goods for the project- more on this in a bit!
What type of Kitchen layout do you plan on using?
Sticking with the same layout is always the most economical option. However, if you want to change the layout- be aware of extra costs: electrical, plumbing, flooring, framing, drywall, paint, etc. Layout changes typically require a permit and possibly architectural drawings.
what is your budget?
Essential question! Even if you don't want to max out your budget, be prepared to discuss your allowance with the contractor. A reliable contractor will be able to work with your budget and your preferences to create the kitchen you really want. Realistic expectations and budgets are easier to work with up front- otherwise, cutting corners may end up costing you more in the long run, leaving you with an unfinished project.
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01 considerations
02 choosing your builder
03 planning and design
are they qualified?
A qualified builder will guarantee a professionally finished product that will meet your budgeted expectations and time-frames.
BEWARE of hiring a builder without a contractor's license. Without it, you have little to no recourse if problems arise.
are they able?
The purpose of remodeling or building a home is to increase the value in the home itself as well as create a space for those who will live there to enjoy.
BEWARE of hiring someone who doesn't have the ability to make that happen or someone who doesn't care to make it happen.
send
01 considerations
02 choosing your builder
03 planning and design
Address resale issues.
If you're looking to resell or make a return on the remodel, design something with massive appeal- not something selective to just your taste.
To get ideas, think about scoping out remodels or houses for sale around your neighborhood- stay in competition with those upgrades to ensure maximum ROI.
Have you determined the scope?
How big of project can you afford; what is your time-frame for the construction period? This is when having a budget is helpful for a contractor. You may have certain desires for you space and the time-frame you wish to make it happen- but a limited budget. A qualified contractor will be able to take your ideas and the reality of building supplies, and create a crafty alternative that you'd love!
Have you thought outside the box?
Once the layout is agreed on... we get to the fun part! What kind of cabinets do you want? Builder grade cabinetry should be the lowest quality that you would put into any project. Upgrades vary and include all materials and quality of craftsmanship. You and your contractor will work together, and can discuss common upgrades.
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