What’s a Feasibility Consultation? The First Step of a Renovation
“You can do anything you set your mind to!” Remember your second grade teacher telling you that while you stared blankly at your multiplication worksheet? Maybe that was just me. But I’m certain you’ve heard that phrase at least once before. It works wonders in the hearts and minds of kids all across California, but it’s not always true — especially when we’re talking about home renovations.
It’s a sad truth in our profession, but not every dream remodel is actually realistic. That’s where feasibility consultations come in. At HEX General Contractors, we offer these to homeowners in Sacramento and the Bay Area to help you find out which parts of your vision are actually possible. It comes before any hammers are swung or blueprints are drawn up. So whether you’re dreaming of a full kitchen redesign, a bathroom addition, or even a renovation of your entire home, this consultation gives a foundation and walls to your vision. So how does it work?
What Is a Feasibility Consultation?
A feasibility consultation is a meeting with your contractor where you share your renovation ideas with them so they can determine if your goals are possible within your existing home structure, zoning restrictions, and budget.
Don’t think of it as a full design plan. It’s more of a professional opinion on whether your ideas are doable, what it will take to make them happen, and what challenges might arise.
Think of it as a health check for your project. The earlier you get one, the more time, money, and disappointment you can potentially save yourself.
What Happens During a Feasibility Consultation?
Here’s what you can expect at your feasibility consultation:
Walkthrough: Our renovation expert will examine your space in person to get a full understanding of what you’re working with.
Discussion of Goals: You share your vision — whether it’s a kitchen with an island, a garage conversion, or an ADU.
Assessment of Constraints: We do an in-depth check for potential structural, zoning, or permitting issues that could impact your plans.
Budget Guidance: We give you an estimate so you have an accurate framework for how much your project could cost.
Estimated Timeline: We’ll provide a timeline range from project start to final inspection so you know how long it might take.
At the end of the consultation, you’ll have a clear answer on whether the project you’re dreaming about is feasible, from structural restrictions to budget, timeline, and everything in between.
How Long Does It Take?
A feasibility consultation typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the scope of your project. We’ll typically provide a written summary outlining our observations, key considerations, and whether we recommend moving forward within a few days of the meeting.
Are Feasibility Consultations Free?
Yes and no. There is a flat fee for any feasibility consultation, but you’ll be fully refunded by HEX if you proceed to hire us for your renovation project!
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is a feasibility consultation the same as a design consultation?
Not necessarily. A design consultation focuses on aesthetics — like materials, finishes, and layouts. A feasibility consultation primarily focuses on functionality, restrictions, and practicality before the design phase even begins. We can help you with a design consultation as well if that’s what you’re looking for.
Can I skip a feasibility consultation?
You can, but we don’t recommend it. Skipping this step can lead to serious issues later in the process — like design changes, permit denials, or massive budget overruns.
Which projects benefit most from a feasibility consultation?
Any renovations involving structural changes, additions, or layout reconfigurations need a feasibility consultation. If you’re looking to expand your kitchen, add a bathroom, convert your garage, or build an ADU, you’ll benefit hugely from this crucial step.
Does HEX offer consultations outside of Sacramento?
Yes! We serve the greater Sacramento area, from Roseville to Elk Grove, and Folsom to Granite Bay, all the way to the Bay Area.
Local Considerations for Sacramento
There are some specific things to be aware of if you’re looking to remodel within Sacramento:
Historic Districts: Neighborhoods like Midtown and East Sacramento often have historical status, which limits the types of changes you can make.
Permitting Backlogs: Sacramento’s growing population has put a strain on the city’s permitting system. Knowing up front whether your project is likely to pass plan review can save months.
Zoning Rules: Want to add a second floor? Convert a garage into a guest suite? A feasibility consultation ensures those changes align with local zoning rules before you commit.
Sacramento’s Top Feasibility Consultants
Our team has decades of experience remodeling homes and businesses around Sacramento. We know the ins and outs of local permits, regulations, and expected timelines and budgets. Our consultations are clean, friendly, professional, and always helpful. We’ll help you understand any potential roadblocks to your vision, and even offer alternative solutions when available. So if you’re thinking about renovating your home, adding a room, or finally tackling that kitchen remodel, start smart by booking a feasibility consultation with HEX.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or discuss your options. Let’s take that first step toward a renovation together.
