Guide to Home Improvement Products

How to find a home improvement contractor or information about remodeling services

By Kristen Bailey

1. Be flexible in your budget - the home remodeling cost will often end up being more than was originally estimated.
2. Remember that home remodeling projects can escalate - new counter tops often require or warrant the purchase of a new back splash, new sink, new faucets, etc. which can then require plumbing changes.
3. Consider the future needs of the home as you select your home improvement products. Tile floors may be too hard for a crawling baby, low maintenance counter tops may be ideal for large families, an island cook top is convenient in a busy kitchen.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy home improvement products

You can find a large variety of home improvement products at several online retailers.

I recommend: Lowe's allows you to buy products online, and then pick them up in the store to save on shipping charges, but also allow for the convenience of shipping from home. Home Depot, Sears, and Direct Buy offer a large selection of home improvement products as well.

Buy home remodeling software

Home remodeling software can help you to create a home design, room plan or entire house design on your computer.

I recommend: SmartDraw allows you to begin with a room or home plan template and then customize as you need with thousands of ready-made symbols. Plan3D is used by contractors, interior designers and homeowners to plan remodeling projects for one room or an entire house.

Find the average home remodeling cost for large and complex jobs

A home improvement contractor can be costly but necessary for large and complex projects. Fortunately you can estimate the home remodeling cost for many repairs and upgrades ahead of time.

I recommend: ServiceMagic, Inc. has a feature that allows you to enter the type of home remodeling services you desire, the extent to which you plan to upgrade, your zip code, and the time frame you have in mind, and professional contractors will contact you with an estimate. Contractor City sells software that will estimate the current cost for residential and commercial construction, repair and renovation.

Find a home remodeling contractor

Home remodeling contractors can be found in your area using a variety of services.

I recommend: ReliableRemodeler.com asks about your home building remodeling needs and matches you with a local contractor. HandyAmerican.com represents a variety of contractors for home improvement remodeling and commercial remodeling. ServiceMagic, Inc. leads you to pre-screened contractors for home improvement services who have been rated by people in your area.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  As you consider home remodeling projects, either do-it-yourself or contracted out, think about how long you plan to be in your current home. According to current research, the amount of money homeowners recoup upon resale from remodeling projects is shrinking. Projects like renovating kitchens, baths, and adding closet space will add the most value to your home, while adding decks and pools usually add the least.