So, the decision has been made and you are going to remodel your home. The first thing to do is to locate a contractor who will complete the job in a timely manner and with the budget that you have established. Proceed with caution when selecting home improvement contractors, or you could experience a plethora of problems that may be quite costly. Some research prior to hiring a contractor will save you quite a bit of trouble down the road.

Whether you're remodeling a kitchen, a bathroom, or a bedroom, check the builders' association for a list of contractors who belong to them. With your list in hand, verify the licenses of possible contractors as well as complaints made against them thru the Better Business Bureau. After your research is complete, contact at least three contractors to obtain bids. Don't just hire the person who charges the least, because since they pay for supplies and labor, a price too low can mean lower quality.

After choosing three prospective residential contractors, start asking questions. Ask them how long they've been contracting. Do they carry insurance which includes liability and workman's compensation? Do they subcontract the work out, or do the work themselves? Who do they use as suppliers? You should also get in touch with the subcontractors and suppliers and make sure the contractor has good working relationships with them. Get a minimum of three references from former clients and ask them whether they were satisfied with their work, whether the work was done on time, and whether it was at the cost quoted. You can get your contract after you find a contractor you believe you can work well with.

When using a residential contractor, always obtain a written contract. This contract should include specific details about the work, how long it will take to finish, how much it should cost, and the materials and brand names that will be used. It can take some time to find a reliable contractor, but it's worth it in the end for the money and stress it'll save.