Your Guide to Home Improvement Archive


Are there specific questions I should ask a contractor?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, sometimes it's not the responses you get that are important, but what you don't get. So you should trust your instincts and pay attention to the information that is obviously missing. Nevertheless, here are some questions NARI suggest you ask before ...
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What guidelines should I follow to find a contractor?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
Always exercise caution and be comfortable and confident about your final decision. This means selecting a competent and reliable contractor with a track record who can complete the job without hassles or negative consequences. What you can do: ...
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Should the architect and contractor have a “vested” interest in one another?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
It does not hurt to have a situation where the architect and contractor already have an existing working relationship. In fact, such an association could benefit a project by ensuring the smooth integration between the design and implementation. In a residential project, there is sometimes a triangle of tension between ...
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What are the specific responsibilities of the contractor vs. the architect?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
Beyond having the architect create the design and the contractor implement it, both professionals have additional responsibilities. The contractor is responsible for pricing the project and ensuring that it is completed in a timely fashion. The architect is responsible for getting the construction drawing completed with proper specifications and architectural ...
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Who should be called to the project first, the contractor or the architect?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
Opinions vary about which professional to call first. Some say the architect comes first because "you have to design it before you can build it." The architect, who is trained to resolve problems creatively, can help define the project in ways that provide meaningful guidance for the design. The architect ...
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Who are the professionals that do home improvements?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
They vary depending on the size and scope of your job. General contractors are companies or individuals who contract with you to manage all aspects of the project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, obtaining building permits, and supplying materials and labor equipment needed to do the project. Specialty contractors, on ...
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Should I hire a professional or do the job myself?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
It depends on the complexity of the project and your ability to do the job well yourself. Really consider whether you have the time, skills, tools, help, and legal knowledge of local regulations to get the job done. While you could save up to an estimated 20% of the project ...
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What factors should determine whether I decide to move or remodel?

Friday, December 7th, 2007
Your personal needs, preferences and finances are all factors. If you've lived in your home awhile and prefer to stay in your school district or neighborhood, improving your existing space may work best for you. If a second bathroom is what you desire, it may also be cheaper to convert ...
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Are special tax breaks available for historic rehabilitation?

Wednesday, November 28th, 2007
Certified historic structures now enjoy a 20 percent investment tax credit for qualified rehabilitation expenses, if they are income producing properties. A historic structure is one listed in the National Register of Historic Places or so designated by an appropriate state or local historic district that is certified by the ...
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What about state and local governments?

Wednesday, November 28th, 2007
Just about every state now offers loans for renovation and rehabilitation at below-market interest rates through its Housing Finance Agency or a similar agency. Call your governor's office to get the name and phone number of the agency in your area. ...
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