1. Make sure your contractor specializes in remodeling rather than building. As any “This Old House” viewer knows, remodeling contractors regularly deal with circumstances that plans don’t show.

2. Determine who will be doing the actual work – if you will be working with company-trained employees or subcontractors.

3. Find a contractor with a history of finishing jobs on time. It will prevent the single biggest nightmare of remodeling – the never-ending job.

4. Protect yourself against shoddy workmanship with a warranty designed for this purpose. Remember, however, that a warranty is only as strong as the company that offers it.

5. Any remodeling project is only as good as the professionals hired to do the job. Ask for references.

6. Remember that reputation, references, quality of workmanship, and personality are as important as the bottom line.

7. Remember to make certain that your contractor carries good liability insurance.

8. Beware of anyone who offers a firm price for materials but not for labor. If a contractor cannot estimate the labor cost, you do not want that contractor.

9. To find a reliable contractor, get recommendations from friends who have done home improvement projects.

10. Before calling a company, check each company’s references and record with the Better Business Bureau and Registrar of Contractors. Then, invest some time in reviewing your options. It is up to you to understand what each company is offering you.

11. Communicate how you really live. It’s the only way to achieve a design that truly suits you and your family.

12. Note how well the designers listen to you. Communication is an extremely important consideration when hiring a professional. Make sure you have a rapport with the person you decide to hire. You will be spending a lot of time with them, so comfort in the relationship is key.

13. Demand a calendar. There will be scheduling changes, of course, but it’s the only way to keep apprised of where you are in the process.

14. Be straightforward about how much – or how little – you can spend. This information is vital to a designer as the style and the type of equipment you intend to purchase.

15. Look for someone who’s proud of their work. If they are enthusiastic about past projects, they’ll more than likely be enthusiastic about yours.

16. Like the company you’ve hired, because you’re going to have a relationship for a long time.