Ask a Professional - October 2006

I need to hire a contractor to remodel my home and besides I think I need more room. I hear horror stories about unscrupulous contractors. Where do I start???

This is a big topic and I can’t explain everything in this small space provided, so I’ll provide it in parts so we can cover it in better detail.  First Topic: Do Your Homework! Many homeowners have realized that by improving their existing home by adding on or just putting on a new roof is a better investment than buying a new house. Adding a room or remodeling a kitchen can cost more then a new car so you need to take time to plan for this new project.  Why the horror stories? Unfortunately, most consumers spend less time choosing a contractor than they do choosing a car. Example: I have encountered homeowners that want to add space to their home but have no idea how or what they want so they simply say…you’re the contractor, don’t you know? Nobody can read minds, not even a qualified contractor. Yes, the project starts with you, the home owner. Until next month for Topic 2 on how to plan for your project.