Visit other homes your
potential pro has worked on.

Six-Point Hiring Test

The phone book is full of design and construction firms. The trick is finding the ones that fit your project -- and you as client. Zero in on professionals who pass this six-point test:

• They are experienced in remodeling the rooms in your plan. How long have they been in business? How long have they been doing the type of work you want?
• Their references are good. Call references and ask questions about communication, workmanship, reliability, and responsiveness.
• They have the required credentials. In most areas, contractors must be licensed.
• You like their work. Look at pictures. Visit recent jobs comparable to your planned project to assess design and craftsmanship. Visit not-so-recent projects to see how they've held up.
• You trust them. It's essential to have a contract specifying exactly what will be done, the payment schedule, starting date, target completion date, warranties, dispute resolution procedures, and so on. But you should also feel as though you could trust the person with just a handshake.
• They "click" with you on a gut level. Don't underestimate your gut feeling. You have to have open, comfortable communication with the people remaking your house.