A remodeler's checklist

1. Be Goal Oriented - define the remodel objectives, and tackle only what directly relates to your concerns.

2. Predict the future - anticipate future needs (empty nest, benefits to potential buyers) to make the project worth the investment.

3. Spend Smart - know the value of your home and the houses around you - pricing your home out of the neighborhood can be a trouble when you want to sell

4. Set the bottomline - How much will you spend? Monitor finances so you're not sacrificing at the project's end to stay on the budget

5. Get inspired - The fun part! Pore over magazines, visit home shows and browse stores for ideas.

6. Chart your course - Get organized with a project file containing sketches, clips, swatches, and product literature

7. Talk it out - ask friend for referrals and product recommendations

8. Read carefully - when reviewing bids, read and fineprint. There might be licenses, permit, or municipal requirements - find out now.

9. Know your role - You don't have to supervise, but be involved and accessible

10. Enjoy the spoils - After the inconvenience and when the dust settles, remember you turned an idea into a life enhancing reality.

Article taken from This Old House