13 steps toward a great remodel

Fall is a time for home improvement and fix-up projects, but many people put off jobs becausethey can't find a good contractor or have hada bad experience in the past.

According to Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List,52 percent ofhomeowners have had problems with a contractor. More than a third of them fired or wish they had fired their contractor before their project was finished, according to a Harris Poll commissioned by Angie's List.

But, there are ways to minimize theangst. Here are 13steps to consider before taking on a project.

1. Clearly define your project: Before you begin talking with contractors, read remodeling magazines and search the Internet for information on designs and materials. Even rough ideas on paper give a potential contractor a better sense of what you hope to accomplish and what is required to make it happen.

2. Management issues: Large projects, especially those that may involve more than three different specialists (i.e. plumber, electrician, carpenter, mason) may go better if you have a general contractor to manage all the various tasks and timelines.

3. Structural issues: Projects that eliminate walls, add rooms or otherwise impact the structural integrity of your home, should involve an architect or a structural engineer.

4. Ask around: Ask neighbors, friends and Angies List about good, local contractors, but dont hire based on only one conversation.

5. Check references: Get names of previous customers and find out if they were pleased with the work and the timeline of the project, and if theyd hire the contractor again. Get the names of subcontractors and ask if they work with the contractor often and does he pay on time. If your prospective contractor balks at providing references, find another one. Check with trade associations to learn how your contractor stacks up among his or her peers.

6. Get estimates: Get at least three written estimates. Documentation is often the best ammunition you have if things go wrong.

7. Where can I reach you? Be cautious of contractors who give you a post office box with no street address, or use only an answering service. Never hire someone who comes unsolicited to your door and cant provide you proof of qualifications especially if he or she pressures you to hire fast and pay cash up front.

See the rest here:
13 steps toward a great remodel