1. Vision = Client develops a "vision", a clear and precise idea of what their project is. Don't worry about the details, that's our job, what we need from you is an outline of your project.

2. Drawing = Sketch out a tentative idea of the layout of the floor plan so we can better understand the scope of the project.

3. Finances = Resolve the financial aspects, make sure you have the means to accomplish your final goal.

4. Research Contractors = make sure the contractors you choose to bid on your project are well respected in your community and capable of doing the job.

5. Ballpark pricing = get price ranges from your contractors. Make sure they compensate for a "worst case scenario". If a contractor underbids a job they may end up skimping on the quality of the workmanship.

6. Architects = If plans are required, set up an appointment with an architect. Home Solutions offers architectural services on projects which require them. Getting plans for a home or addition may sometimes take several months so this waiting period may need to be added to your schedule.

7. Final Bidding = At this stage the contractors you have chosen should submit final bids on what they feel the job will cost.

8. References = Beware of contractors unwilling to divulge names and phone numbers of previous clients. Our satisfied clients are always glad to show off their completed projects to our prospective clients.

9. Deciding on a Contractor = After viewing samples of a contractors work and talking with previous clients it is time to decide on a contractor.

How To Pick A Contractor

1. Legitimacy = Is the contractor legitimate? Are they registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs? Do they have a valid Builders Registration Number? The answers to these questions can be researched online or at your local Division of Code Enforcement.

2. Comfort Level = Do you feel comfortable with the contractor/ builder? You will be communicating constantly with him/ her throughout the course of the project. Do you feel they are taking the time to develop a project that is unique for you and your home?

3. Price = How do you feel about the price being discussed? Are you willing to sacrifice quality craftsmanship for a lower price?

What to Expect

1. Communication = Interaction between the homeowner and contractor is crucial to developing the desired results.

2. Job Challenges = Almost every job has a hitch of some sort that clients must expect and be ready for. Once a project begins, the demolition stage may uncover dry rot, termite damage, bad electrical wiring etc. During a recent job an unforeseen challenge was discovered when we removed siding from the house and discovered a large nest of carpenter ants. When dealing with these challenges it is important to have a company such as Home Solutions which will deal with such incidents quickly and efficiently so as not to disrupt the job's schedule.

3. Scheduling and Flexibility = Throughout the process, clients should expect to take some time off of work. Whether it is to meet with building inspectors or to visit showrooms to decide on fixtures, having a flexible schedule is a benefit to both the contractor and the client. Flexibility also refers to the emotional aspect involved. During renovations clients can be without a kitchen or bathroom for a month. Remodeling is an invasive and disruptive process, but having a contractor you trust can lessen the anxiety.