Start by asking yourself the following questions:

From concept to completion, how do you plan a remodel?

How much does construction cost, and is financing available?

What preliminary information do you need ahead of time?

How do you choose and work with contractors?

What about contracts, who is responsible for what?

How do you keep records and what about tax tips?

Is your mind boggled by construction terminology?

How about ways to save energy? Does it really pay to change out windows or install insulation? How much money can you save with Energy Star appliances?

Are you getting ready to sell? We all know that kitchens and bathrooms sell, but how much do you budget for the upgrades in order to get the most ‘bang’ for your buck?

Maybe the biggest question of all is – how do plan a remodel and maintain your sanity during the process?

For the thirty years, my husband and I have operated a contracting business in the state of California; first as an electrical contractor doing all types of electrical work, from residential service work to commercial buildings, and then as a general contractor specializing in tenant improvements.

Recently we renovated the house we live in; completely re-wired and re-plumbed, added a Master Bath, installed dual-pane windows, moved walls, raised floors, added arches, installed an HVAC system, and turned the carport in to living space.

We installed stone flooring and ceramic tile, re-stored hard wood floors, painted walls, ceilings and kitchen cabinets, and changed out all of the hardware. We also hired contractors, supervised journey-level employees, and paid all of the bills.

Actually, I’ve come to the conclusion that remodels are never finished. All of the learning processes and gathering of information has you thinking about another project, and the planning starts all over again.